Summary of Activities
Following an engaging day at the vineyard and exploring Plettenberg Bay, it was essential to return to Tsitsikamma in pursuit of a meal.
We had been quite enthusiastic about experiencing numerous attractions throughout the day that, other than a midday indulgence in beef biltong, we had somewhat overlooked our hunger.
Once we returned to Tsitsikamma, we opted to venture out for food rather than remain indoors, which meant walking merely two doors down to the cherished Marylin’s 60s Retro American Diner. (Tsitsikamma Village is rather compact!)
Although I was keen to don roller-skates and glide down the street, my sense of decorum ultimately prevailed!
As implied by its title, the diner was adorned with an array of memorabilia from the 1960s, including tributes to iconic figures such as Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley. I have a fondness for traditional diners!
The ambiance was lively, with bright and colorful lights creating an almost psychedelic atmosphere, a delightful distraction while awaiting our meals (waiting impatiently for food in a restaurant is a test I have yet to master gracefully).
Despite not being a morning person, the anticipation of the day’s adventures inspired me to rise promptly and strategize our plans enthusiastically.
A key aspiration was to return to Bramon’s Wine Estate, where dining surrounded by vineyards is possible! Although our previous visit had allowed only a brief moment for Yaya to enjoy a glass of wine (my role as the driver permitted no indulgence), I was eager for lunch there (even having just enjoyed breakfast…)
Bramon basked once again in the glorious South African sun—just my ideal setting!
Every visit to a vineyard commences with a comprehensive wine tasting, and this occasion was no different. The region is renowned for its superb sparkling wines, thus we commenced with a selection of those…
Following our bubbly, we progressed to the richly flavored red wines. *licks lips*
The menu featured an array of tasting dishes, affording the opportunity to order multiple dishes without suspicion. 🙂 While I might have faced the occasional judging gaze, I remained too engrossed in savoring baked Camembert to care!
Once we had indulged ourselves in abundant cheese and wine (amongst other delectable offerings), we set out towards Bloukrans Bridge Bungy—the highest bungee jump bridge globally!
The drive took around an hour, and my heart raced the entire way… matters only grew more tense upon realizing the severe height—216m (700ft). I felt lightheaded merely gazing at it, let alone bungee jumping from it!
In this instance, fear distinctly made me feel physically unwell—it was simply too high! After several moments, Yaya declared, ‘Let’s do it’— I froze! I could not bring myself to do it! Normally, I’m up for any challenge, but this took the prize! Paralyzed by trepidation, I opted to act as Yaya’s supportive companion and witnessed him take the monumental leap.
Watching the jump appeared nearly as harrowing as performing it! I could hear the screams, followed by jubilant cries post-jump! Yaya mentioned that for a few prolonged moments, he felt sheer terror, but it concluded in the blink of an eye!
After Yaya regained his composure and we indulged in another binge of beef biltong (wherever we find these delicious snacks, we indulge—rules of the game! 😉), we aimed to engage in an activity that permitted us to remain grounded (What a relief!). We headed straight to Big Tree in Tsitsikamma National Park to visit one of the oldest trees on Earth.
This magnificent tree exceeded 1,000 years in age… I genuinely had no idea trees could endure for such extended periods!
The walkway leading to the tree was tranquil and provided an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of South Africa.
Visiting the Big Tree offered a perfect excuse to stretch our legs ahead of the two to three-hour journey westward to Port Elizabeth. (It was essential to work off the biltong, wine, and substantial lunch consumed). This region serves as an ideal stopover point if a brief rest is needed during long travels, as the trail does not demand excessive time to complete.
Our adventures in Eastern Cape were remarkable, encapsulating the stunning landscapes, exhilarating activities, and delightful culinary experiences that this region has to offer!
