green Land Rover Defender , all kitted out for safari . It was game drive time .
The reserve is spectacularly beautiful with surprises around each bend . Knowing that I could not see , was a challenge that Stefan relished , he was determined to give me a full game drive experience . He had the day before , driven into the park and just stopped with his eyes closed to try and prepare as best possible for taking a blind guy on a game outing . He had a great plan . Stefan managed to get me close enough to all the antelope that I could hear them walk and eat , smell them and just to push the senses to the limit , I got to taste the wild Rosemary they were eating and feel some of their droppings . The poop was not the only thing put in my hands though .
All sorts of creatures and critters , from a marmoset to a big spider . Our guide ’ s enthusiasm was both addictive and captivating . His calm
and gentle way of talking us through the experience was almost hypnotic . Meditative in a way . I really enjoyed the drive and imagined myself chilling in a bush hammock to just listen to the animals . Nyala , impala , gemsbok , zebras , giraffe and even a few lions , all roaming the most spectacular setting . I even heard a rumour that they are introducing some rhino in the next month . The reserve has some luxury tented accommodation and a perfectly positioned African boma restaurant overlooking a water hole . We were treated to lunch with Stefan and his wife , Unelle . What a great spot to chill right on the doorstep of nature . I could very easily have stayed for a week and would have written another book in that time .
In Mossel Bay , we were met by the warmest welcome from our hosts at Bettys Boutique Hotel . Hearing their quirky Yorkshire accents and the excitement of sharing their beautiful place with us , was fantastic . We sat and chatted for hours with the bay in view from the patio and decadent smells bellowing out of daughter and Chef Daisy ’ s kitchen . The UK qualified professional chef specialises in pastry and has fast become the go-to baker in the area . Famous for its high tea on the patio , Daisy creates a smorgasbord of delights every day . She was busy making Macaroons while we sat chatting and sipping our beers .
The following morning , we devoured a traditional English fry up that was as good as anything you would eat at a fine British castle .
The Garden Route deserves its stripes . It is known as one of the top tourist attractions of South Africa . Bettys is a jewel in Mossel bay , now primed to become the adventure capital of the area . They offer shark cage diving , a zip line suspended over the ocean , deep sea fishing charters , game drives , and dozens more exciting activities are on offer . This sometimes quickly passed by town , should not be missed . There are a lot of hidden little treats lurking down every street . The best part of Betty ’ s boutique for a petrol head like me , is that they have a beautiful old 1934 model Shelby Morris that , if you like , they will take you for a drive in . They will even spoil you with one of Daisy ’ s delicious vintage picnics and a butler plus hat-wearing driver . I cannot think of a more romantic experience . The ocean , the old school cool car , the tasty treats in a wicker basket and a drive around this beautiful little dorpie .
We left Mossel Bay to a waving Yorkshire family . I love the way they have turned their passion into their purpose . There are many accommodation choices in Mossel Bay ranging from backpacker ’ s hostels to game lodges , but for me , the whole package at Bettys Boutique is really something special . Wendy , Dave , Lewis , and Daisy have made
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