Clickety Clack Closer To Home

Camping in Rawsonville - Goudyn - Stillewater on the Smalblaar River. You might think it’s ridiculous to go away for the weekend only to head to the next hamlet. As soon as I step into our Honey Badger to spring-clean and spruce it up, make my bed and pack my goodies into the fridge, I’m like a child. The distance or destination doesn’t matter. Near or far, I make a mental adjustment and eagerly look forward to the adventure. I encourage you to consider a similar escape to create your own memorable moments.

A year ago, my brother Mark was on life support with COVID, fighting for his life. A fortnight ago, my brother and sister-in-law recovered from COVID. It was time for the Fabulous Four to get together again. We’d cancelled so many opportunities, and time is running out. Both families have realised how important it is to live in the present and not wait for opportunities. Regret is not an option. The future is unpredictable, and my itchy feet need constant scratching.

We were packed and ready to roll. Lunch would be the last of the soup and the potato bread from Daly Bread; we also had, in the fridge, six of the world’s best Pastéis de Nata for tea.

Our turn for dinner came on Saturday evening after the rugby, and we’d prepped our delicious lamb necks for the occasion. I’d steam a handful of French beans and broccoli spears for the sides, and, of course, some golden sweet potatoes in the coals during the second half of the game. Dessert is a no-brainer. Everyone loves a baked chocolate pudding. For the recipe, see http://maricha.co.za/blogs/post/winning-winter-warmers-when-its-welly-cold. 

WhatsApp messages were pouring in from the Knights; they’d set off too. By the look on their faces, they were as excited as we were. 

Rawsonville’s wine region, known for its rich history and scenic vineyards, invites exploration. I hope my audience feels inspired to discover these local gems themselves.

Farms rarely change hands, and successive generations bring about innovation. Roads, cellars, streets and farms honour Le Roux, Van Der Merwe, Botha, Louw, Stofberg, Du Toit, Jordaan and Du Preez.

The village has remained a “trading post” with a school, Dutch Reformed Church, and shops serving locals’ needs. A new strip mall is the latest addition, with an OK convenience store; otherwise, nothing has changed.

Farm stays have become increasingly popular, with campsites nestled alongside vineyards or orchards that envelop guests in a green cloak, or alongside dams and river embankments, or at the foot of mountains. Camping at Stillewater offers a tranquil escape, perfect for reconnecting with nature and loved ones. 

We were on our way to the campsite Stillewater on  Botha’s farm Goudyn, at the foot of the breathtaking Stettynskloof mountain range. One of the six enclosed campsites can accommodate 25 campers and has electrical points for six caravans or tents. The peaceful setting among vineyards and the scenic mountain backdrop made it an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway.

The two ablution facilities were adequate, and we never had to queue. Gas geysers supply hot water. Although I found the walk to the scullery area tedious, carrying a mound of crockery and cutlery, I was relieved not to have to use my own.

We arrived shortly after lunch, and the first thing we did was check the fire heating the hot tub on the riverbank overlooking the Smalblaar River.   The manager had started the process earlier, but that “donkey” needed regular stoking, and soon our woodpile went straight into the fire pit.  We ordered more wood, and it was delivered.

We enjoyed all our meals around the long table set up in the Lapa. Percy rapidly stocked the large fridge/freezer with refreshments. Easy access was required while the rugby was on. Jay provided a smart television. He set up his router in a jiffy, giving us all access to a good Wi-Fi signal.  So do take your Wi-Fi router.

Our only complaint. There’s no tap nearby. Guys like to wash their braai grids and refill the emptied ice trays, so they had to walk to the scullery. The new camp manager came around on Friday evening to enquire about our comfort and brought more wood to stoke the donkey. 

Butch and I took our bikes from the bike rack and went for a refreshing cycle around the farm while our companions hiked up the kloof on Saturday morning. 

We spent most of the day in the hot tub, which was precisely what the doctor ordered. An early lunch sent the boys out to braai some boerewors for hot dogs. We sat talking until our fingertips shrivelled.

We spent a lazy afternoon at our leisure until it was time to pull on our tight-fitting rugby jerseys, warm up, bring out the snacks, and settle in to watch the Springboks thrash the British Lions. After Rassie’s leaked statement, we were pleasantly surprised that very little was said about the debacle. Thankfully, the referees behaved themselves.

On Sunday, after a late lie-in and coffee, we laced up our walking shoes and set out to explore the eastern side of the river. It was a delightful, easy walk among the fynbos until we met a little boy who’d lost his keys! His parents were remarkably calm about the mishap. Fortunately, we found their house keys, sunlight glistening on them, in a bush by the path. He was thrilled. His parents were relieved, I’m sure.

After a King’s full-house brunch, produced by Percy, we packed up and, with heavy hearts and a nostalgic pang for boarding-school life, lumbered home to unpack, settle, and catch up with our children all over the world.

I wonder what our Camp Commander, Sue, and second-in-charge, Butch, have planned for our next trip. Let’s hope it’s soon. Getting back together again felt like the earth had realigned itself. Jay and Minette, you're a breath of fresh air, and your candour and quick belly laughs are like sunshine on a gloomy day. You made us all feel young. You reminded us that being authentic is always good for the soul. Do not let 12 months go by before we get the nod on your busy calendar. 

We can certainly recommend Stillewater and the other campsites on the farm to anyone seeking a camping spot away from it all. You have a few options—ideal for a reunion or a family or friends get-together.

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TCB Wines, Goudyn Rd, Rawsonville, 6845

Contact Details:

Danie
+27(0)76 496 2033 
Please call or Whatsapp for bookings

Besigheidsure vir besprekings
Maandae tot Donderdae - 9:00 - 17:00
Vrydae  - 9:00 - 16:00
Geen besprekings word hanteer op vakansiedae nie.
Business hours for bookings
Mondays tot Thursdays   - 9:00 - 17:00
Fridays  - 9:00 - 16:00
No bookings will be done on public holidays.