Cape Winelands Archives - Page 5 of 5

A weekend at the lovely Leeu House

Posted on June 6, 2016June 7, 2016 by Lexi Hall

From the minute we pulled up outside the exquisite Leeu House we were overwhelmed with the unbelievable 5 star service. The valet, Andy opened the door and welcomed us with the biggest of African smiles, stretching from ear to ear. His warmth was all encompassing and before we knew it he had unpacked the car, taken our luggage inside and taken the car off to park!

Second to greet you are the two awe-inspiring sculptures of Mandela and Ghandi, history’s most iconic leaders. These are the first indication of the grandeur and the consideration of the space that awaits you. Not to mention, the seamless integration of African and Asian influence that runs throughout the property.

The perfectly manicured lawns lead you down into the classic Cape Dutch style buildings where the wooden floors and high ceilings embrace you wholeheartedly. We were then met by the beautiful Charmaine and Logan who checked us in with ease, proficiency and an affable charm!

The interiors are considered and aesthetically pleasing from the outstanding sculpture of the Slave Trade at reception to the massive, brightly coloured Lionel Smit portraits, to the beautiful orchids… there is just so much to take in!

The rooms are ridiculously spacious, boasting neutral hues, exquisite finishes and every creature comfort the heart desires. A Cape Dutch foundation with an Asian influence and scatterings of authentic, award winning, contemporary artworks. From the writing desk, to the under-floor heating, to the welcome note, to the personalised turn down gifts, to the complimentary mini-bar, complete with every delicious snack you could imagine, to the heavenly bed you won’t ever want to leave. There is nothing more you need in life, in fact you could have a fantastic time without even having to leave the confines of your room, a sanctuary of peace, indulgence and decadence.

Outside, the gardens are serene and secluded, exquisitely manicured, lush, green and vibrant. The heated pool and strategically placed sculptures by the likes of Dylan Lewis and his contemporaries ensure a peaceful escape, the perfect oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the main street. Be sure to have a quiet glass of wine on the patio… and take in the sights and sounds before heading out into the energy and buzz of the village.

Shortly after this moment of peace we were whisked off next door, to the “happening” Tuk Tuk microbrewery where we had a delicious beer tasting. We were greeted by name, by the gregarious Hector at the door and shared lots of stories and laughs at the bar with Mark and Werner, who treated us like royalty. Now, I’m not normally a fan of beer but these craft beers… were delicious with the CBC Pilsener definitely coming out on top! Some scrumptious Mexican fare followed, nachos, burritos, churros… the whole bang shoot… and it was all delicious! After a little too much wine tasting that afternoon, the beer tasting and all that food it was time to take a little starlit wander around the picturesque village before we retired to the most comfortable bed in the world! I am not exaggerating when I say… it was literally the best night’s sleep of my life. So much so, that I asked reception for the details of bed and mattress so I can purchase the very same one!

We woke properly rested, to the sounds of the birds chirping in the trees and a peaceful quiet that was just so poignant and powerful! Breakfast was a decadent affair to say the least. While sitting perched on the intimate terrace overlooking the gardens of Leeu House we sampled delectable yoghurts, fruit, muesli, baked goods, omelettes, freshly squeezed orange juice and of course a delightful cappuccino or too. Again the staff were attentive, delightful and full of character – ensuring that we left feeling wholesome and rested, wishing to return.

But hang on… we’re not done yet, and I’ve definitely left the best for last. The staff organised for the delightful Kelvin to take us on a drive around the ground-breaking, immaculate and astounding (again I’m not exaggerating) Leeu Estate, which is yet to open. The estate is truly a wonder to behold and a destination that you literally couldn’t imagine in your wildest dreams – it really does have everything you could ever wish for in a 5 star, country escape. From infinite space, to beautifully manicured gardens, rose beds, walking paths, sculptures, rolling lawns, springboks, palm trees, swimming pools, picturesque cottages and a sophisticated manor house, vineyards, orchards, water features, rooftop gardens, libraries, gyms, spas and so much more… Watch this space… Leeu Estate is about to revolutionise the hospitality world. Opening soon, on the 15^th June 2016!

A BIG thank you to Karen, Lynn, Andy, Hector, Werner, Charmaine and Logan for making us feel so welcome and ensuring that we really did have the most indulgent and enjoyable weekend at Leeu House.

The Leeu Collection is coming soon to our site for any queries in the meantime click here.

Interview with South African Wine Guru – Allister Kreft

Posted on March 9, 2016May 9, 2016 by Lexi Hall

Iconic Africa had a chat with old friend and legendary wine guru, Allister Kreft, to get the inside scoop on the South African wine industry, the best wines to try and wine farms to visit. Allister is MD of Under The Influence a successful beverage distribution company that is helping take South African wines from the tip of the continent to the rest of Africa. He’s a wine merchant, a very part time wine maker and almost full time traveller!

Here’s what he had to say:

What is your involvement in the wine industry?

Allister: “I founded a company called Under the Influence which has an amazing team. We distribute wine in 14 countries in Africa. Our mission is to bring better beverages into the continent and we work with South Africa’s best producers, as well as an international range. We have a big focus on wine education and edutainment and love demystifying the subject.”

When did you develop your love for wine?

Allister: “It really started when my folks bought a small farm in Elgin and we planted three vineyards, spraying each vine with a rose bush hand spray machine, and started making wine. We were all learning and exploring the process. It totally captivated me! I started spending every cent on wine and even managed to get to Italy and Bordeaux and that was it!”

What makes South African wine so great?

Allister: “South Africa is the oldest wine making region in the world, outside of Europe at 300 years old! This means we have centuries of understanding the land, the grapes and how to coax the best possible wines out of them. Because we aren’t in Europe, where wine production is often restricted by rules of what to plant where, we have a pioneering spirit and approach to wine production. From vineyards close to the salty air of the Atlantic to high up in the Cederberg mountains, our winemakers really push the boundaries of innovation with a healthy respect for old world wine making techniques and traditions. It really is the best of both the new and old worlds meeting at the southern tip of Africa.”

What challenges does the South African wine industry face at the moment?

Allister: “It is an extremely tough business to flourish in, with large capital costs of establishing vineyards, cellars and the barrels and bottles needed for production. Luckily the South African brand from a wine perspective is becoming more recognised internationally, and not just for its bulk supermarket wines, but small family driven brands too. There are a lot of challenges ahead but we have come a long way from one or two major companies producing and marketing all of our wine. The weak rand is definitely in our favour. I truly believe we make the best value wine in the world at all quality levels.”

What is your favourite wine region in South Africa?

Allister: “I am totally biased here, but I love Elgin because of its range of slopes and soils, and its overall cooler climate. This makes it a wine makers paradise, especially in the crafting of more elegant wines. It’s also a valley that has farming at its core as a lot of the estates also produce apples, so the families put huge focus on quality production in the vineyard.”

What is your favourite cultivar?

Allister: “I have favourites for different times, foods and places. A slightly chilled Pinot noir at home during the week, a powerful yet elegant Cabernet Sauvignon shared at a Sunday family dinner on the farm, a rich but fresh Chenin Blanc with a summer luncheon. Wine is so relevant to time and place and the people around you!”

What are the top 3 wines that you think travellers should try when coming to South Africa?

Allister: “I think foreigners are often benchmarking wines to regions they identify with in Europe or around the world. So, for two common benchmarks, Bordeaux and Sauvignon Blanc, they should try De Toren Fusion V and Paul Cluver Sauvignon Blanc. Both demonstrate old world restraint with new world fruit, and there are scores of examples from many of the family estates we work with. They should also try something different, something fairly unique to us, and that would be a wine made from old bush vine Chenin Blanc in the Swartland, maybe something from the enigmatic Adi Badenhorst. There are literally hundreds of examples of world class wines and producers to explore.”

What are the top 3 wine farms they should visit while in SA?

Allister: “This is so difficult to recommend and I get asked it all the time! I would recommend a wine journey to explore the range of styles and terroir we have in the Western Cape. Start in Stellenbosch, maybe with a tasting at the tiny winery of De Trafford, tucked into the Helderberg mountain range. Then head via Elgin to Iona and explore this cooler climate producer with dramatic views across the valley, and then onwards to a pioneering and iconic producer in the Hemel en Aarde valley, near Hermanus, Hamilton Russell. I once did this journey and it was sunny and hot in Stellenbosch and cool and rainy at Hamilton Russell, and they are geographically very close!”

What is the easiest way for tourists to buy wine here and ship it back home?

Allister: “Often the wine estates will be able to ship the wine, but there is a great company called Aspiring Logistics, which does shipping of wine all over the world.”

A Decadent Dinner at Delaire Graff

Posted on February 16, 2016April 30, 2016 by Lexi Hall

From the moment you arrive your breath is taken away and you really need to go slow and be constantly conscious of taking it all in. Climbing the meandering, tree-lined driveway, you are flanked by lush, manicured gardens, bright flowers and sporadic sculptures. But wait… you haven’t even got to the top! Once there, the mind-blasting views of the Franschhoek valley on one side and the Stellenbosch valley on the other will no doubt, leave you speechless.

Whether it is the winery, the hotel, diamond shop or one or the two restaurants that you’re looking for you… you will no doubt be blown away! For us… it was a mouth-watering meal-of-a-lifetime at the Delaire Graff Restaurant!

Before we get there though… we managed to get a sneak peek of the awe-inspiring sunset from the Delaire Graff Hotel deck – a real treat for sore eyes! So if you are lucky enough to stay in the hotel make sure you spend lots of time basking in the sun beside the rim flow pool… I can promise that you will never want to leave – especially when the sun sinks slowly behind Table Mountain!

We then took a wander around the winery – an architectural beauty with the biggest peach pip floor in the world, cascading water fountains, overgrown oak trees and some of South Africa’s most renowned works of art – oh just so much to take in!

Finally we returned with our delicate (fish-bowl sized) wineglasses of the smooth but spicy Vuurberg Red to our final destination – the Delaire Graaff Restaurant. The restaurant is bistro chic and it serves fresh, vibrant flavours made with only the finest ingredients. I challenge you to make it through all three courses! We very nearly got there and enjoyed the following delicious dishes:

Beetroot Gazpacho

Goats Cheese Starter with Beetroot, Walnuts and Pickled Apple Jus

Trio of Beef

All of these dishes were out of this world and not a drop was left on our plates! I would love to say that we had sampled one of the desserts perhaps the Strawberry Cheesecake Gelato or the Frozen Peanut Butter Parfait which I definitely had my eye on… but we just quite honestly couldn’t eat another morsel. The service was world-class and could not be faulted once. To the whole Delaire Restaurant Team we take our hats off to you – you certainly know how to make a couple feel on top of the world. Thank you.

The entire experience was out of this world and one that I hope to repeat again in the not too distant future. Delaire Graaff really is decadence on another level and comes highly recommended by Iconic Africa.

Sunshine, Safari & South Africa – Cheaper Than Ever Before

Posted on February 9, 2016May 9, 2016 by Lexi Hall

Let’s face it… for us locals its not ideal that the South African Rand is at an all time low… but for you lucky foreigners it literally makes this exquisite land your playground! Travelling to South Africa has never been cheaper and its time to strike while the iron is hot!

Over the past three years the South African Rand has lost significant value against major world currencies including the US dollar, Great British pound and the euro. It has always been a reasonably priced, great value destination – this is now truer than ever before.

To date the Rand is almost 16 to the US Dollar, 18 to the Euro and 23 to the Pound so it is most definitely in your favour. To illustrate this in simpler terms:

For 1 Pound or less: you can buy an artisanal cappuccino, coke, beer or a scrumptious breakfast pastry.
For 2 Pounds or less:you can buy a delicious glass of wine, a decadent cocktail or a dainty starter.
For 5 Pounds or less: you can have a mouth-watering main course be it steak or seafood or buy an exquisite bottle of the Cape’s finest wine.

As a result… the Savannahs are now even more endless, the grass even greener, the sunsets more awe-inspiring and the big blue oceans even more inviting!

For many travellers a Big Five Safari in Africa is a life-long dream…the difference is that now that dream can so easily become a reality. At first glance the cost of a safari may seem off-putting but bear in mind that South Africa’s lodges and tented camps are all-inclusive so your accommodation, twice-daily game drives, highly skilled safari guide, those magnificent breakfasts and lunches, the coffee and drink stops out in the bush, dinners under the stars… need I go on? Absolutely everything is included in the price tag!

Neighbouring countries such as Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe – price their safaris in US Dollars making South Africa today’s most affordable option. So why not choose the most luxurious lodge with private pool and your own butler as well as extend your holiday by a few days and visit the breath-taking Cape!

You cannot describe the feeling of being out in the wild, the thrill of watching a lion stalk its prey, a leopard climbing a tree or baby elephants frolicking at the waterhole or enjoying that ice-cold G&T as the sun hits the horizon… these are moments that will change your life forever.

So please don’t feel bad, take advantage of our very weak Rand and come and enjoy our beautiful country for less.

How to Escape All the Valentines Hype

Posted on February 5, 2016May 9, 2016 by Lexi Hall

Although Valentines Day dates back to the 5^th century and is steeped in history and romance – let’s be honest, it has become quite commercial and over the top for want of a better description.

Yet again the 14^th of February has creeped up on us. So why not… use it as a reminder to do something special with your loved one… get away from all the red and white chaos, and escape into the pristine African wilderness!

At Iconic Africa, we understand the need for spontaneity, romance and a little adventure so have crafted some special Valentines ideas for you– just in case you need some inspiration! There’s a little something for everyone… with four unique destinations that combine supreme luxury, complete privacy and opulent romance:

For a little Edwardian Passion: Ellerman House is the definition of modern sophisticated living on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the marvels of Cape Town all around. The illustrious owner, Paul Harris, has spared no expense in ensuring this is a Relais&Chateaux haven of unparalleled luxury. Ellerman House boasts arguably Africa’s greatest art collection as well as a wine compilation which has been expertly selected over multitudes of decades so its perfect for wine fanatics and art aficionados alike. Cape Town’s endless sights, activities and beauty can keep you enthralled for months on end – however we know you will be hard fought to leave the luxurious confines of Ellerman House.

For some winelands majesty: La Residence is the jewel of Franschhoek – abject indulgence suspended in an impossibly beautiful valley of vineyards. Nestled in the vineyards and plum orchards of Franschhoek, La Residence is the most gorgeous boutique hotel in the most picturesque valley in South Africa. Liz Biden and her family have created a benchmark to luxury and comfort that will leave you gaping at the exquisite detail and love with which every furnishing, painting and sculpture has been selected. The hotel is infused with colour, fabulous antiques, vaulted ceilings from which Indian chandeliers twinkle and luxurious Persian Carpets while fresh flowers fill the magnificence with the sweet scent of contentment. The little village of Franchhoek – the undisputed culinary capital of South Africa has a distinctive café culture – probably from the French Huguenot settlers who arrived in the valley in that 17th century. They brought with them a culture of great wine and delicious food and that culture persists to this day through the more than 40 wine estates whose vineyards wash the valley floor in green.

For something a little more wild: Royal Malewane is impeccably tasteful grandeur surrounded by the majesty of the African wilderness. At Royal Malewane, the Biden’s Royal Portfolio has achieved perfection again. This time, on a private concession bordering the world-famous Kruger National Park, Liz Biden has conjured a marvel of wilderness romance and seclusion that blends seamlessly into this ancient land. Dinner is a gourmet affair of wholesome yet sophisticated splendour, either in the privacy of your suite or out in the wild, lit by the heart-melting romance of the star-sprayed sky and 100 lanterns suspended in an ancient Leadwood tree skeleton. Back at the lodge, the Royal Malewane Spa is a world-renowned and the ideal way to unwind with a uniquely healing African treatment. Royal Malewane’s guides and trackers are some of the most highly qualified in Southern Africa. They are an integral part of your safari experience because through them the wonders of the African wilderness will unfold in all their splendor.

For something a little royal: Royal Chundu is the ancient mystery and magic of the Zambezi in luxurious island seclusion. Royal Chundu is Zambia’s first Relais & Chateaux property – defined by sumptuous luxury that blends seamlessly into the private stretch of the Zambezi River Bank where Royal Chundu River and Island lodges nestle. Island Lodge is Royal Chundu’s romantic haven of seclusion. Set on a private island in the languid waters of the Zambezi, this lodge offers just four exclusive and indulgent villas. Each palatial haven boasts a private deck suspended over the river. The outdoor bath is a fantastic space to soak up the night sky while on cooler nights, keeping cosy in the plush lounge is an excellent option before retiring to your extravagant bed. A little down river from Royal Chundu, the Zambezi falls over the Victoria Falls to create one of the greatest demonstrations of nature’s power on planet earth. Stand in front of the falls on the Knife Edge Bridge as the thunderous spray of the world’s largest waterfall envelopes you. You can plunge into the gorge below on the end of a bungee rope, swing across or zip line it if you feel the need for an adrenalin rush. You might even take a leap of faith and dive into the Devil’s Pool – right on the edge of the falls – an experience to put life in perspective. Rounding off the day with a sunset cruise on the Zambezi is the ultimate way to experience the peace and contemplation of Africa’s magic and power.

Click here for an idea on how to combine all these exquisite destinations into the romantic getaway of a lifetime or here if you have any questions or would like to look into other ideas.

10 Things You Wish You’d Known Before Arriving in South Africa

Posted on January 26, 2016May 9, 2016 by Lexi Hall

Let’s face it… South Africa really is like nowhere you’ve ever been. It is an unparalleled confluence of beauty, colours, cultures, wildlife, nature, entertainment and food that will no doubt knock your socks off!

To prove that we aren’t biased… here are a few of our favourite comments from recent travellers on Tripadvisor.

“I wish I had known that I would be bitten thoroughly by the safari bug before my “once-in-a-lifetime” trip. Now it’s all I dream about, and I’m plotting a return!”
“I wish I had known how addictive it was!!!!”
“I’ve already decided I want to emigrate to Cape Town!! I know I am going to love it!!!”
“The one thing is that Africa gets under your skin and you just have to keep going back it’s so addictive!!”

And my MOST favourite:

“I wish I had known visiting Africa that first time would change my life forever.”

There are a few quirky things that we have realised travellers from afar really should know before arriving on our shores. Here we go… we hope they are helpful!

1.Mobile phone coverage is extensive, and easy to access. A SIM card can be bought at any airport (you just need the address of where you are staying.

2.If you are going to self-drive be aware that South Africans drive on the left-hand side of the road. Driving yourself is relatively safe, but you might to brush up on the local road rules before getting behind the wheel.

3.It can get really HOT! In the summer months from December to April, temperatures further north can exceed 40 degrees Celsius. Perhaps have a look at Accuweather where you can see monthly statistics, and the normal average highs and lows. Whatever you do – always stay hydrated!

4.Don‘t be flashy. Keep jewellery and expensive cloths to a minimum. Try not to look too much like a tourist walking around with a huge camera and don’t leave your bag or cellphone unattended – just to be on the safe side.

5.Roundabouts are called circles and traffic lights are robots!

6.Something a little different when dining out is that you need to ask specifically for the bill when you are ready for it, waiters do not usually bring it automatically. Please also note that the food really is delicious here so don’t be surprised if you go home a few kilos heavier!

7.Fuel stations are called garages and are not self-service. It is customary to tip fuel attendants.

8.If you can bring with you a 3 pronged, adapter with wide pins. Most hotels and lodges will lend them to you but just in case. For more on electrics click here. http://www.southafrica.net/za/en/travel-tips/entry/travel-tip-electricity

9.Wherever you park, day or night, in a supermarket, outside restaurants, in town or by the beaches, you will find car guards who will watch your car for you. Again a tip for this service is much appreciated.

10. Feel the rhythm of the people and ‘go local‘ whenever possible. You will find them to be warm, friendly and delighted to share their corner of Africa with you.

If there is anything else that you arrant sure of or any other questions you might have please do let us know.

An African Blessing for the New Year

Posted on December 31, 2015May 9, 2016 by Lexi Hall

Walk tall, walk well, walk safe, walk free

And may harm never come to thee.

Walk wise, walk good, walk proud, walk true

And may the sun always smile on you.

Walk prayer, walk hope, walk faith, walk light

And may peace always guide you right.

Walk joy, walk brave, walk love, walk strong

And may life always give you song.

Patrica Schonstein

From all of us at Iconic Africa we wish you a Happy New Year!

Our Year in 12 Snapshots

Posted on December 28, 2015May 9, 2016 by Lexi Hall

“ A picture is worth a thousand words.”

Here is our year in 12 pictures. It was incredibly hard to choose but we hope you enjoy them and agree that they certainly speak for themselves. Thank you for being a part of our 2015!

Photo by Craig Hayman “Lion in the Kruger”

Leopard & Cubs at Londolozi

Selinda, Botswana

Royal Chundu, Zambia

Cape Grace, Cape Town.

Photo by John Holley. Marataba.

Victoria Falls

Lion and Cubs, Kopano Madikwe.

Photo by Terri Abadi. Londolozi.

Benguerra Mozambique.

Photo by Craig Hayman. Leopard in the Kruger.

Photo by Graham Wood. Londolozi.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Posted on December 25, 2015May 9, 2016 by Lexi Hall

It’s that wonderful time of year again. The sunshine is here to stay, as are the afternoon thunderstorms that clear quickly, leaving a warm, earthy, African smell in the air. The land, its people and its animals are very grateful for the rain and celebrate it daily! We still need lots more … but we have faith that it will come.

It’s been an awesome year for us and we hope you have enjoyed being a part of our journey. Thanks to all of you who have travelled with us this year. We hope to share much more of our beautiful continent with you in the future.

With best wishes from all of us at Iconic Africa for a fun festive season! May it be filled with:

happiness

love

peace

family & friends

and many African sunsets!

The Day of Reconciliation

Posted on December 18, 2015May 9, 2016 by Lexi Hall

“Reconciliation means working together to correct the legacy of past injustice.” Nelson Mandela

Today is the Day of Reconciliation. A day that we as South African’s need to take heed of and be thankful for the nation that we are today. It came into effect in 1994 after the end of apartheid with the intention of fostering reconciliation, national unity and a democratic South Africa.

Happy Reconciliation Day to our fellow South Africans, may we all walk towards tomorrow together and remain today and always #proudlysouthafrican

#TBT To a Decadent Lunch at La Residence

Posted on June 25, 2015May 9, 2016 by Lexi Hall

A few weeks ago the Iconic Africa Team were treated to an exquisite luncheon at La Residence in Franschhoek. An experience definitely worth re-visiting!

Perched amongst the vineyards, on the slopes of the beautiful Franschhoek Mountains is this pinnacle of luxury and an unrivalled piece of heaven – La Residence. Voted Conde Nast’s No 1 Hotel in the World in 2013 amongst a myriad of other awards, La Residence is a must for any bucket list. The sprawling green lawns speckled with majestic springbok, the private dam complete with island, rowboat and soft flowing willow trees, instil an awe-inspiring sense of peace. La Residence opened its doors in 2008 and as a flagship property of the illustrious Biden family-owned Royal Portfolio, has been embracing and astounding guests with an unparalleled level of luxury ever since.

The staff at La Residence are the epitome of true African hospitality and their wholehearted commitment to excellence is impenetrable. There isn’t a request they haven’t had from guests and they oblige willingly with a smile and laugh. The staff will direct you to the best restaurants and wine farms the valley has to offer, so be sure to ask them as the infinite choices will no doubt overwhelm you.

Any meal at La Residence is a wonder to behold. Seated either under the tremendous terracotta arches overlooking the lawns, pool and mountain or in the classical dining room on a burgundy winged-back armchair you are in for a revelation. The menu is specifically crafted each day and so you will never have the same dish twice.

Our choice of the day was the Croque Madame with a side of the Gorgonzola salad or the pan seared smoked salmon trout, both lovely light lunch options. Accompanied by a glass (or two) of the Graham Beck Brut – the very same Cap Classique that both Nelson Mandela and Barack Obama toasted with, on their inauguration dinners, you immediately feel like a celebrity! Top it off with a chocolate strawberry roulade with salted caramel and berry compote or an array of Franschhoek valley cheeses and you couldn’t be more content.

After a long, lazy, luxurious lunch and maybe a little too much Cap Classique we were all ready for a much-needed afternoon nap!

Whether you are a wine connoisseur, a mountain biker or a food enthusiast the Franschhoek Valley is for you and if it is the ultimate in luxury and homeliness that you desire, La Residence couldn’t be more perfect.

Live it up and Give Back at the Franschhoek Literary Festival

Posted on May 15, 2015May 9, 2016 by Lexi Hall

Now in its 9^th year running the Franschhoek Literary Festival will draw thousands of avid book-lovers to its beautiful valley for a weekend of books, poetry, culture and wine! Iconic Africa is passionate about giving back and thus loves supporting this event whose proceeds are donated to non-profit organisations. Iconic Africa chatted to Sheenagh Tyler the key organiser to get the inside scoop on this year’s Festival.

The festival aims to inspire and inform bringing celebrated authors from all over the world to share their learnings, experiences and wisdom with South African readers. With such a plethora of writers and talks on offer there is something for everyone. This year it draws the likes of Tim Couzens, Justin Fox, Ron Irwin and Moeletsi Mbeki to name only a few of the distinguished writers you can look forward to.

The festival is not run for profit but is dedicated to encourage reading among young learners and to raise funds for local community and school libraries. The FLF Library Fund has donated thousands of new books to schools, crèches and libraries in the area and has significantly improved local reading levels over the last decade.

Format

The Festival runs from Friday the 15^th May to Sunday the 17^th May, from 10am to 5pm each day. Events take place all over the exquisite village, and all are within walking distance creating a vibrant atmosphere and an amalgamation of book and wine lovers alike.

Talks take on the format of informal discussions, debates or one on one discussions. Alongside these there is a great deal of alternate entertainment including writing workshops, food and wine tastings and music concerts.

Don’t forget when you are not in a seminar or talk you can be sitting along the picturesque, white picket fenced, French inspired main road with a lovely cappuccino croissant and the newspaper. Later in the day you could be enjoying a glass of the valley’s sensational wines, perhaps a Haute Cabriere Pinot Noir or a glass of Graham Beck Brut, with an artisanal cheese and charcuterie board. After the sun has set, your options are endless as the village houses some of South Africa’s top culinary experiences that will rival the best in the world.

Inside Scoop

Iconic Africa had a chat to Sheenagh Tyler who is one of the two organisers to get the inside scoop on the 2015 Festival:

How long does a festival of this nature take to organise?

Tyler: “It takes at least a year. We start planning the next one as soon as this year is finished. In fact we have already started inviting writers for next year.”

How many people come to the festival?

Tyler: “Last year we sold over 16 000 show tickets, this isn’t how many people attend as many go to more than one show but that should be a good indication. 2015 is almost sold out. “

Why do you organise the festival?

Tyler: “I live in Franschhoek and wanted to do something to help the community, to give something back. The FLF Library Fund is a cause I really believe in.

What are you most excited for this year?

Tyler: “The political debates are always very interesting and entertaining and I’m sure this year will be no different!

What should festival visitors be sure not to miss out on?

Tyler: The two events that are unique this year are the two stories of music, where the journeys of two of South Africa’s favourite singers will be brought to life.

The dynamic PJ Powers will tell her personal story using anecdotes and musical interludes.

Bongani Madondo (well-known author/journalist) and Shado Twala (famous radio presenter) will bring to light the legacy of Branda Fassie.

Any tips to festival-goers this year?

Tyler: “This really is an event not to miss. If you are going please make sure you have booked all your talks in advance as they run out rapidly. For those not coming this year start watching our site from March and get tickets early!”

For more information on the festival please go to www.flf.co.za

Where to stay

Looking for a luxurious piece of heaven to return to after a long day of learning and inspiration. Perhaps Delaire Graff, Le Petit Ferme, Le Quartier Francais or La Residence? Contact Iconic Africa now for the ultimate in luxury winelands accommodation.

Iconic Africa – the Who, How, Where and Why?

Posted on May 8, 2015May 9, 2016 by Lexi Hall

Every African tale has its beginning, a seed which over time has germinated into something supremely special.

Iconic Africa was merely a dream on a beautiful evening game drive, at the exquisite Londolozi Private Game Reserve. The game ranger, “John” and guest “Terri” had got on swimmingly and both shared an innate passion for the African wilderness. They both yearned to share this incredible infatuation and craved to inspire others to come and experience the beauty of Africa.

Terri Abadi’s uncontainable enthusiasm for Africa – Africa’s wildlife, Africa’s people and Africa’s wild spaces – borders on obsessive. Terri’s favourite way to spend the summer months is on safari with her husband and four children, which she does regularly all the way from Atlanta.

John Holley grew up in Africa. His fervour for conservation and travel was ignited by a childhood spent at the continent’s wilderness hotspots. As a student John spent every minute he could in the wild – travelling and working as a horse safari guide in Kenya. He began his professional career by completing his chartered accountancy for global financial services firm KPMG. Eventually, however, the call of the African wilderness pulled him away from corporate life and off to Londolozi where he worked as a game ranger for two years.

It was here that one day… on another glorious game drive as the sun was setting on a bright crimson horizon, the stars aligned and Iconic Africa was born. John recalls how during Terri’s stay the Londolozi wilderness truly showed off! Each game drive produced life long memories. John and his tracker Richard Siwela laughed as they couldn’t put a foot wrong! Those who have spent a great deal of time in the bush, know this as “bush karma”. It was this incredible game viewing and endless memories which stimulated a life-long friendship and inspired game ranger and guest to start a new adventure. They have formed a compelling partnership with John’s affable charm and knowledge of wildlife, perfectly complimenting Terri’s love, enthusiasm and desire to get her feet rooted firmly in the African soil.

Founded by Terri (based in Atlanta, Georgia) in 2013, Iconic Africa is a labour of love designed to entice global travellers to African destinations that have inspired her over a lifetime of travel to our great continent. She has personally visited every destination that Iconic Africa recommends and used this extensive luxury travel experience to mould Iconic Africa into one of the leading bespoke travel agencies for exclusive, luxury and adventure African safaris and expeditions.

In December of 2014, Terri and John joined forces to transform a traditional travel agency into a world-beating online travel platform. To showcase the Iconic African destinations which best represent Iconic Africa’s values of opulent luxury, world-beating African hospitality, delectable contemporary cuisine and most importantly an authentic commitment to wilderness conservation.

Iconic Africa creates exclusive luxury African safari and adventure holidays for couples and families to southern and eastern Africa. Our gorgeous destinations are all handpicked and visited by Terri and John and include: the sophistication of Cape Town, the glorious Cape Winelands of the Franschhoek Valley, the tumultuous Atlantic coastal retreat of Hermanus, the most stylish safaris of the Kruger National Park, the emerald mosaic and epic wildlife of the Okavango Delta and Selinda Game Reserve, the adventure and majesty of the Victoria Falls, the last tropical island refuges floating in the cobalt blue of Mozambique and the urban fascination and history of Johannesburg – economic hub of the African continent

A vital aspect of Iconic Africa’s philosophy is that the destinations we represent must demonstrate a genuine commitment to the conservation of Africa’s last great wilderness areas and the rural people who live around them. Terri and John have both personally been extensively involved in education and poverty alleviation in rural Africa.

Long before Terri involved herself in the luxury travel and safari industry, she owned two successful American fashion companies which she used as leverage to build an export business that shipped innovative children’s products back to South Africa.

John’s vision and fervour for the development of Africa’s people began with the Madlala Cluster Learning Centre in a village bordering the Kruger National Park. John helped to start this rural centre for African learning excellence in a village while working at Londolozi, still growing from strength to strength under the Good Work Foundation. (http://www.goodworkfoundation.org/)

When you travel with Iconic Africa, you can rest assured that a portion of the money you spend on life-changing African vacation will be put to wilderness conservation and the alleviation of poverty in Africa. Our destinations contribute to the protection of rhino, innovative green energy, valuable ecological research, education, lion conservation and community development.

So, what makes us different?

Africa’s hand selected elite: Iconic Africa has hand-picked only the most exclusive and elite that Africa has to offer. In this was we guarantee your African experience
Saving your money: Iconic Africa enjoys long standing relationships with all our show cased properties, this enables us access to rates which are guaranteed to cost you less than if you were to book directly.
First-hand African experience: At Iconic Africa we understand this may be your once-in-a-life-time journey to Africa. We have therefore travelled to every property ourselves to ensure that these are indeed Africa’s supreme experiences!
Give back to Africa: Iconic Africa is passionate about uplifting and giving back to Africa. Your booking helps us not only build awareness but also give back to a number of worthy African causes.
American base: Should you be travelling from the United States take comfort in the knowledge that our team in Atlanta will ensure you are perfectly prepared for your African trip.
South African base: Our team in South Africa understand first-hand how Africa works and will be ready and waiting to help you on every step of your African journey.
Africa by African Specialists: We have decades of African knowledge so let us guide you through an African itinerary ideally suited to your specific tastes and passions.
Boutique: We do this for the love – we are fully vested in every booking we put together for our travelers thus ensuring we give each the full attention it deserves to guarantee we deliver the perfect African itinerary.
Relax: Relax and let us take care of the administration – this is your holiday!

Let us guide you around our enchanted African continent. Start your journey to Africa with us now.

Kruger National Park

Madikwe

Cape Town

Cape Winelands

Tanzania

Mozambique