The Lofts Boutique Hotel - Sumptuous Lofts Winter Warmer

A TRANQUIL BOUTIQUE Hotel situated at the waters edge in South Africa’s favourite town Knysna. To make it more enticing - we would like to offer: 4 nighs Accommodation for 2 adults including Breakfast and lots of extra’s

* Four Nights Luxurious accommodations in one of our Luxury Loft Rooms with a far-distant view of the Knysna lagoon for 2 adults sharing incl. breakfast at famous ile de païn and pay for only three nights.

* An warm turn-down gift on your first night consisting of a full bodied Red Wine from one of South Africa’s finest vine yards and mouth-watering rich homemade chocolate from île de païn to warm you on those cold winter’s nights.

* A special sweet surprise and full creamed Cape Ruby Port with romantic candle light as turndown gift on your last night at The Lofts.

* An R 200.00 dinner voucher contribution for two adults, to use at any of the four quintets of cuisine restaurants during any of the four nights staying at The Lofts. Complimentary restaurant transfer (for restaurant selections situated in the Waterfront only).

* Le Spa Tranquill - His / hers 30 minute Hydrotherapy Bath for two including natural therapy bath oils and a steaming sauna session for two, ideally to drive away the cold winter shivers.

* Combine the 30 min Hydrotherapy Spa Bath with a Full Body Massage instead of the Sauna and save R 95.00 per person on the normal price.

R 3600.00 incl. Vat – Hydro Spa Bath & Sauna

R 4200.00 incl. Vat – Hydro Spa Bath & Full Body Massage

Valid from 01 September 2008 until 31 August 2009 only, subjected to availability

For more information on the Lofts Boutique Hotel and contact details please click here.

June 2009 Interior Design ideas from Helene Coertze

WEIRD AND WONDERFUL
A strong design message- go wild or go home!

Bring in some cheek and fun by introducing some of the following trendy suggestions in your interior environment:

GENERAL:
* Black and white is taken a tenacious leap into the main spotlight… in everything from fabrics, rugs, wallpapers, bedlinen and flooring
* Gloss and sheen by using metallic threads, brilliantly interwoven into both natural and synthetic base fabric, for cushions, ottomans and head boards.
* Return of romance - creators of exquisite comfort – oversized chairs with names like The Orchid Sofa!

FLOORS:
* Pattern is the thing – from wall-to-wall carpeting and rugs through to parquet. In soft flooring, it’s anything from giant florals and fashionable stripes to weird and wonderful designs reminiscent of marbled paper.
* Any colour - from exquisitely jeweled brights, stimulating blues to seductive green to give the flooring palette a glamorous and powerful design message.

FURNITURE:
* A tendency to weird and futuristic designs (see Alien Coffee table and Nouvelle
Vague’s chair and Ottoman)
* Clean Scandinavian lines and designs from before World War Two by designs from Isamu Noguchi.
* A furniture piece can act as an art piece –An “off the hook” design has the dynamic ability to make a space interesting.

LIGHTING:
* From chandeliers made of baked mud to crystals – make your choice!!


Article supplied by Helene Coertze from De Brak Gallery & Heleen Coertze Interiors in Great Brak River / Mossel Bay.

Visit Oudtshoorn – Klein Karoo

Situated between the Outeniqua and Swartberg Mountains Oudtshoorn is the Ostrich capital of the world. Oudtshoorn is rich in culture and history. A number of the original sandstone ostrich palaces in the town of Oudtshoorn and surroundings is proof of the booming ostrich industry of the early twentieth century.

During March/ April each year Oudtshoorn hosts the annual Klein Karoo Nasional Arts Festival.(KKNK) During this festivals visitors and locals can enjoy typical South African art, culture, music, cuisine and hospitality!

Outshoorn offers a number of activities and attractions including the world famous Cango Caves and Wilgewandel Holiday Farm about 20 minutes drive from the centre of town. The Cango Wildlife Ranch and Buffesdrift Game Lodge is also on this route. At the Cango Wildlife Ranch you can discover animals seldom seem, giving you a thrill of a lifetime. Experience a tour of fact and fable with guides as they venture into the crocodile enclosures, visit the snake park & catch a bird’s eye view of the family of big cats. Buffelsdrift Game Lodge offers a unique bushveld experience in the Little Karoo. Various options of game viewing offered by trained guides; Bush Safaris in open game vehicles, guided Nature trails, Horseback safaris and Elephant walks.

Bushman Curios offers you a range of Ostrich Leather products, Ostrich Feather products and Ostrich Eggs. Also Lion Rugs, Shoulder Mounts and Antelope Skins, Semi-precious Stone Articles and Gold Jewellery collections.

Tantinki Goatsmilk Products produce 13 different types of cheese in 17 flavour, butter, yoghurt, fudge, ice cream and even soap. Visit our Country Shop at 45 Langenhoven Road, Oudtshoorn.

Now is your chance to experience the unique sensation of a Hot Air Balloon trip with Oudtshoorn Ballooning. The panoramic view of Oudtshoorn and the majestic Swartberg mountains will stay in your memory forever.

Hurry and hug a bird at Highgate! Visit Highgate Ostrich Show Farm, here you will have great fun learning more about the largest bird on earth. Tours takes 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours. Open from 7h30 to 17h00 daily, including Sundays and public holidays.

When in Oudtshoorn visit The CP Nel Museum at 3 Baron van Reede Street, one of the best small town museums. The museum’s main theme is the ostrich industry, focusing on the ostrich feather boom period (1900 – 1914). Also visit Le Roux Town House Museum at 147 High Street.

Visit the Kango Wijnhuis in Van der Riet Street in Oudtshoorn and discover the best wines in the Klein Karoo. Here you will find a wide range of award winning dry and sweet Wines, Brandies and Liqueurs. Wine sales and tasting Mon - Thurs 8am – 5pm, Friday 8am – 4:30pm and Sat 9am – 1pm.

Relax in the romantic and welcoming atmosphere of Nostalgie Coffee Shop and Restaurant at 74 Baron van Reede Street whilst enjoying true South Africa hospitality and traditional South African cuisine. Also visit our gift shop.

Old Mill Restaurant is the only A la Carte Restaurant who specialize in Rooibok, Springbok, Kudu, Ostrich and much more! Enjoy your meal while viewing our tame game. Located on the R328 15km out of Oudtshoorn.

Accommodation in Oudtshoorn is available in B&B’s, Guest Houses, Lodges, Hotels, Resorts, Camping Sites, Guest Farms, Game Farms and Game Lodges as well as in self catering cottages and apartments.

For more information on Things to do & places to visit in Oudtshoorn click here.

For more information on Dining out in Oudtshoorn click here

For more information on Venues in and around Oudtshoorn for weddings, conferences and other functions click here.

For more information on accommodation in Oudtshoorn click on the links below:
B&B and Guest Houses

Camping

Game Lodge

Hotels

Resort

Self Catering

About Riversdale – Garden Route

Riversdale is nestled at the foot of the Sleeping Beauty Mountain on the N2 highway between Cape Town and Mossel Bay. The town has a rich cultural history and has various historical landmarks. Accommodation in Riversdale ranges from B&B and guest houses, guest farms and cottages to self-catering.

Riversdale enjoys moderate climate throughout the year and is considered a year-round holiday destination.

Faming in the Riversdale area comprises of wheat, grain, fruit, cattle, dairy farming, sheep, ostriches, honeybush tea production flower farms for export.

Riversdale makes an ideal stop over or base for exploring the area. Riversdale is located within close proximaty seaside towns such as Still Bay and Witsand and also an excellent base for one-day trips to explore the area.

The area offers 4 x 4 routes, absailing from the waterfalls, horseback safaris, hang gliding, fishing and water sports.

Riversdale has earned its name of the Floral Paradise of the Garden Route because of the abundance of indigenous flora - referred to as Fynbos - which covers the mountains and surrounding areas.

Winter Special at Paddy’s Place Guest House – Mossel Bay

The centrally located Paddy’s Place Guest House in Mossel Bay offers four bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms. Paddy’s Place Guest House is the ideal place to stay in Mossel Bay!

Winter Special:
5% discount on B&B accommodation for a booking of 2 nights or more for period 1 July to 30 September 2009

For more information on Paddy’s Place Guest in Mossel Bay click here.

Winter Special at Paddy’s Place Guest House – Mossel Bay

The centrally located Paddy’s Place Guest House in Mossel Bay offers four bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms. Paddy’s Place Guest House is the ideal place to stay in Mossel Bay!

Winter Special:
5% discount on B&B accommodation for a booking of 2 nights or more for period 1 July to 30 September 2009

For more information on Paddy’s Place Guest in Mossel Bay click here.

Winter Special at Kwelanga Country Retreat – George

Kwelanga Country Retreat is situated 5km outside George. Accommodation is offered in log cabins, each one with its own private deck and sea view! Kwelanga Country Retreat also offers a restaurant and venue for weddings, conferences and parties.

Winter Special – June, July & August
R250 per person sharing per night – breakfast included.
For more information on Kwelanga Country Retreat and contact details click here

Opportunity for Southern Cape designers

An opportunity exist for Southern Cape Designers to show case their unique designs at the Miss Garden Route & Klein Karoo gala evening on 26 September 2009. During the grand finale the 12 finalists will wear outfits made by six designers which currently include Isandrie de Jager, Jill Lakay, Mina Nonqubela and Wilmarie de Jager. If you are interested in participating contact Tryana Potgieter (Events Coordinator) at Tel 044 606 7777 or e-mail tryana@gardenroutecasino.co.za.

Photo Description:
Isandrie de Jager: Top Left:
Melissa Maritz exhibiting a cheeky outfit designed by local Mossel Bay designer Isandrie de Jager.

Wilmarie de Jager: Top Right:

Louise Muller showcasing a fashionable evening gown designed by Wilmarie De Jager of Riversdale.

Mina Nonqubela: Bottom Left:
Mina Nonqubela’s unique designing talent is captured in the breathtaking evening gown modeled by Penelope Dimba.

Jill Lakay: Bottom Right

Elegantly dressed in gold, Lihandri du Rand showcases the designs of Jill Lakay of Knysna.

(PHOTO: DENISE LLOYD)

THE MODERN COASTAL HOME

The modern coastal home differs in character and appearance from counterparts in any area of the country.
Not only tends the style to be far more relaxed and even stripped of any pretence, but the stunning environment of the Garden Route almost dictates what is needed on the architectural and thus interior side!

Décor trends are being influenced by social, political and environmental issues world wide. The challenges evolving from our sensitive environment are reflected in the eco orientated decor trends: Sisal carpets, cladding on walls and fireplaces and lamp stands of driftwood or cobblestones are just a few examples.

Due to the worldwide economical slow down, one is tempted to add an extra dash of bling during gloomy times. Silver don’t always mean glitz – Pewter platinum and pearly grey can be used to create a warm and welcoming look in the entrance hall by using the newest wallpaper available. A velour cushion cover in retro designs are also very popular!

A few important things though must be kept in mind:

START WITH A NEUTRAL SHELL
* Keep the “shell” areas neutral – soft putty colours with a grey undertone
* Go for natural fabrics – too heavy materials won’t help the damp problem that we
have to keep in mind at the coastal areas.
* Soft and breezy fabrics that let air flow freely.
* American Shutters and wooden blinds works perfect in a coastal home

THE WOW FACTOR
* Always add a wow factor in any area – either in a painting/artwork or the newest
trend - oversized photo’s
* Group objects together for extra impact
* Add bright, trendy and seasonal colours on small objects like cushions and accessories
* Traffic areas like entrance halls are ideal for adding trendy ideas for example wall
paper or painting one wall in a contrast colour
* Shabby –chic / the combination of old and new can be used very successfully in the coastal environment


Article supplied by Helene Coertze from De Brak Gallery & Heleen Coertze Interiors in Great Brak River / Mossel Bay.

WINTER WONDERS = SOURCE, COVER UP, LAYER AND COMBINE

SOURCE:

- One stunning timeless piece of furniture in each room!
- An oversized black and white photo on canvas in the lounge
- An Ellen Grey glass-top table
- A retro fifties chair from a second hand shop with a veneer bronze or gold finish can look surprisingly stylish .
- An unusual coffee or unpair bedside tables

COVER UP:
- Loose covers for couches - an old idea with a contemporary freshness
- Create a complete new look- loose cushions in now colours,
- Slipcovers - give your worn-out jerseys or denims a new purpose
- Cover your walls in darker shades – or at least introduce one seductive, deep luxurious wall-colouring in red or
aubergine.
- Use wallpaper abundantly – from headboards to screens

LAYER: - Layering textures and solids for a sophisticated impression
- Proudly introduce grandma’s crochet blanket with its subtle harmony of hues.
- Layer tones of russet, faded gold, instead of last seasons’s silver Burned marmelade and cocoa combined with
faded aqua are wow factors.
- Layer a colourful retro look with flamboyant colours and crazy shapes.
- The revival of patchwork, knitwear and crochet is making a homely comeback!
- Layer your bed linen - delicate appliques on bed linen, chic blankets, “fur” throws, hand crocheted lampshades to
Marcel Wanders crochet-inspired side tables!

COMBINE INTERIOR TRENDS TO GET AN UP-DATE LOOK

Article supplied by Helene Coertze from De Brak Gallery & Heleen Coertze Interiors in Great Brak River / Mossel Bay.

Leani Tuinrestaurant presents Valiant Swart

Join us for an evening of good music and stories that will make you laugh. Valiant Swart will perform at Leani Tuinrestaurant in Great Brak River Mossel bay on Friday 19, and Saturday 20 June.

There are only 50 tickets available per show – advance bookings are advisable.
Cost: R 100 per person. ( Dinner is optional. Cash Bar. )
When: 19 and 20 June at 19:00 for 19:30

For more information on Leanie Tuinrestaurant and contact details please click here.

Sedgefield Garden Route South Africa

Sedgefield is located between Knysna and Wilderness along the Southern Cape Coast of the Garden Route. Sedgefield offers a variety of accommodation including Guest houses, B&B’s Lodges, Resorts, camping and self catering accommodation. For Dining out Sedgefield offers a number of Restaurants and coffee shops in Sedgefield. Sedgefield and area also offers a variety of activities and attractions.

For more information on where to stay, dining out and nightlife, things to do and places to visit in Sedgefield and surroundings as well as venues for weddings and conferences click on the links below.

Accommodation

Activities & Attractions

Dining out & Nightlife

Venues

Het Vifde Seizoen/ 5th Season Guest House – George

Het Vifde Seizoen/ 5th Season Guest House is situated below the majestic Outeniqua Mountains in Blanco, George. The Guest House is located only 500m from Fancourt and 5 minutes drive from the George Airport.

Winter Special
Single Room – R350
Double room – R600

For more information and contact details click here.

Het Vifde Seizoen/ 5th Season Guest House – George

Het Vifde Seizoen/ 5th Season Guest House is situated below the majestic Outeniqua Mountains in Blanco, George. The Guest House is located only 500m from Fancourt and 5 minutes drive from the George Airport.

Winter Special
Single Room – R350
Double room – R600

For more information and contact details click here.