Galloping with horses
The Garden Route is undoubtedly one of South Africa’s most beautiful areas. The perfect blend between ocean and wilderness and trees provide for spectacular scenery and the things-to-do are quite literally without compare. But if an opportunity to see a bit more of our country knocks on your door, you don’t just turn it away. Like we say in Afrikaans: “Jy kyk nie ʼn gegewe perd in die bek nie!” Ironic, because we’re saddling up a Mustang or two for this very adventure.
The Ford Mustang is one of the automotive world’s most iconic cars; capturing the imagination and hearts of millions since its very first introduction in the 1960’s. It’s a very good looking car and over at sister publication, Ultimate Drive, we are quite fond of this American muscle. It’s the latest incarnation, available in both Fastback and Convertible trims, that would take us on this journey of epic proportions.
We kicked things off at OR Tambo International in Gauteng and continued making our way down to the Free State. The road was calm and still, the occasional truck moving to the left lane for the contingency to come pass. Barren landscapes form the scenery and the plains lay as far stretched as the grace of God. A few farm stalls provide the necessary beverages to get you psyched up for the road ahead and a few even had some of the best biltong and droë wors this side of the Orange River.
One of the highlights was a stopover at a private game reserve in Ficksburg, bordering Lesotho. What a place! The main building looks like a castle and the greenery of the farm is breathtakingly wonderful. Shortly after arrival, while emerging oneself in it all, the sound of horses galloping erupted from the mountains overlooking the farm. Whips were being… well… whipped and the galloping was getting louder. The next moment, once realising what was happening, a stampede of wild horses came running past us, past two of the Mustangs that were parked on the lawn. The horse whisperers (let’s call them that, shall we?) calmed the majestic animals down, giving us the chance to walk between them. And to top it off, the next morning – just before breakfast and our departure – a gentle stroll on horseback through parts of the reserve got our day going again.
It was an experience words cannot do justice and just being there, with the horses providing an epic highlight to this part of the trip, needs to be experienced. Living horses were exchanged for iron ponys as our trip continued into Lesotho, but we also stopped in Rosendal, a small town where former 7de Laan actor, Chris van Niekerk (better known as Francois) has his own coffee shop and theatre. There is even a couple who blow their own glass, as well as an old lady who makes her own soap.
What made this road trip so memorable for me personally was the fact that we had numerous intimate experiences. Whether it be with the horses or having conversations with great (and interesting!) characters, South Africa has so much to offer. As a Capetonian I couldn’t help but find myself dreaming of doing such a trip, in this car, through the Garden Route and surrounds. After all, the Garden Route has been described as one of the top road trip routes in the world and you need an iconic car to do it in! Just imagine the sound of the Mustang and the wind in your hair through Kaaimans Pass. Next time!
Article & Photos: Charlen Raymond
