Colonial Style, A French Bakery and a Cheetah!

 You know you are having a relaxing holiday when you don't even know what day of the week it is. So Monday came and went without me even noticing and I completely forgot to post my usual Monday Musings post and since it is now Thursday, I guess it can wait till next Monday.

We are in Plettenberg Bay, a lovely town on the south coast of South Africa. I am sitting in this gorgeous little French bakery and coffee shop called Le Fournil, which means "The Bakehouse". I am drinking a cappuccino, eating the most delicious almond croissant and using their WiFi to compile this blog post. 

Images via Lanalou Style Blog. Read more about Plettenberg Bay on her blog here.

Yesterday we had an interesting day that involved a close encounter with a cheetah. We visited a Wildcat Reserve called Tenikwa. They rehabilitate animals and protect some endangered species. Part of our tour involved entering into the enclosure with 2 cheetah which was such an amazing experience. My husband, oldest son and I were allowed in. My younger three sons weren't, as they were too small and apparently the cheetah would more likely consider them to be prey!!  These cats are so beautiful up close and although we were given very strict instructions not to touch them, it was so tempting to reach over and run my hands over their beautiful pelts. You will be pleased to know I resisted!

Afterwards we headed off to Kurland, a boutique hotel, to have a look around. The beautiful original Cape Dutch homestead has been converted into an hotel and polo club. Set in amongst rolling green hills with paddocks and horses calmly grazing, it really is idyllic. The interior is very Colonial in style with a few French touches.

The boys (im)patiently waiting for their hot chocolates!

Drinks set out for the day with lovely little touches.

I really covet this mirror!

The interior has that very comfortable, lived in look of old English country homes.

There were so many interesting details outside, I could have taken photos all day.

A veggie garden supplies the hotel with fresh produce daily.

A room just for flower arranging!

Being winter, the roses weren't in bloom. It must be quite a sight in summer!

 Wishing you all a wonderful day.

Till next time

Sharon x


All photos by me except the bedrooms and bathroom and the aerial view. These are from the Kurland website here.