John here...

We farewelled Swellendam and it was my turn at the wheel. We headed for Mossell Bay for a coffee, quick walk along the waterside and a very quick tour of the manned lighthouse which was closed for maintenance. We drove through Robinson Pass which cuts through the Ruiterbos Valley, linking Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn and this trip through the Outeniqua Mountains as part of the famous Garden Route did not disappoint once again for beauty.

Our next stop was Oudtshoorn, for our accommodation at Hlangana Lodge. On check-in we were greeted with a glass of bubbly, so Nick thought a further bottle was required, followed by a Farmers Platter to soak up an empty stomach. The breakfast menu for tomorrow included more bubbly but as Nick would be driving he convinced the hostess to bring his share forward. After much debate and google/trip advisor searching we decided on a dinner venue - Jemima's, which offered a meat trilogy of Ostrich, Beef & Kudu (Venison) served with complimentary sauces as well as some old favourites like Confit Duck - the food was fantastic, as were the deserts. We started with a local Chardonnay and finished with a La Motte red - at least a 3 bottle day today.

Quote of the day - as seen at Jemima's Restaurant "wine does not make you fat....It makes you lean...Against walls, doors, chairs & funny people"

Distance travelled 315k; Rain 16deg; Altitude 757m