Returned to Stellenbosch and visited the slow market. Lots of interesting foods and some crafts. The breakfast sandwich was fabulous and of course the Belgium "timbits" were a fitting way to top off breakfast. We spent the balance of the morning doing a part of a walking tour which covers numerous points of interest in the town. Saturday afternoon was wine tasting at; Waterford Winery -- a beautiful winery in which the presentation and tasting at the facility was wonderful. They also offered a wine and chocolate pairing which was an interesting combination. Unfortunately none of the wines were to our liking but we did buy the chocolate which was very good. Somerbosch Winery -- had lunch here which was excellent, gourmet food at cafeteria pricing. The wine was good particularly the Savignon Blanc Ernie Els ... read more

Harry and Susan invited us to go with them to Stellenbosch which is in the heart of wine country. We had a very civilized lunch at the Spice Route Winery and toured the town. This is a very beautiful community with lots of interesting shops and restaurants. Ernie Els has a restaurant on historic Dorp Street called "the Big Easy". There is also a market here on Saturday's which we intend to visit and come back to spend more time touring the town. Also visited the town of Paarl but only drove through the area and didn't see much. Jack Nicklaus has a golf course/resort in the town which we will probably play eventually.... read more

Today we were invited to a picnic lunch at Vergelegen Winery by Harry and Susan, our friends from France who are "wintering" in South Africa and have done so since 2006. This was a fabulous introduction to South African Wine Country. There were tables set amongst Canphor trees which are quite majestic and some of them at this winery were over 300 years old. As you can see from the pictures, this winery had exceedingly attractive grounds that added considerable to the overall experience. The food and wine of course were "top drawer" and the weather was a beautiful summer day with a gentle breeze. We also visited a winery and coffee roaster in the same area called Lourensford which we had a wine tasting and we picked up freshly ground coffee. Overall a very pleasant ... read more

Saturday, May 26th Picked up at the Apartment in Port Soller by Pierre who is retired from the French Airforce and is a real character! Short flight to Barcelona, arrived at the Hotel Denit at around 2:00 pm and spent the balance the day orientating ourselves to the city. The Hotel is contemporary and central to all the attractions. The room is small but well appointed and the bed comfortable. The guest book shows a number of Canadians including 3 couples from Newfoundland! La Rambla promenade is a sight to be hold! Nothing like it we've seen! After wandering aimlessly looking for a place to have dinner, we discovered, La Calates, which is the oldest restaurant in Barcelona. It is a traditonal Catalania restaurant! The appetizers were encouraging but the main course disappointing. Sunday, May 26th. ... read more

Saturday, May 12th We can't believe how beautiful the weather is, consistently everyday. Quiet day today took a short hike up to a look out point and spent the balance of day hanging out around the beech and apartment. Sunday, May 13th Walked into Soller. There is an annual fair called ES Fira which is quite similar to small town Agricultural Fairs in Canada. There were lots of stalls selling handicrafts etc, and a small Midway for the kids. The only difference to Canada is the activities are spread throughout the ancient cobblestone streets of Soller. Walked back to Port Soller and hiked up to another look out point which had an impressive building called Meleta Refugi. It had great facilities for hikers and family picnics. We'll probably go back there with a picnic basket one ... read more