Post 12 Build it Journey

BLOG POST 12

I awoke early, made a cuppa and sauntered around the majestic sub-tropical garden around our guest cottage with its rare cycads and high palm trees. When Greg got up we decided to go for a quick walk around the nearby cane fields to invigorate us for the day. After a good shower and quick breakfast, we headed for the Build It store in Pongola and met up with Kevin to try and find some wi-fi to send some emails. We said hi to Kevin and then were on our way.

We set sail for the rural town of Mkuzi 70km away to meet with Seaton who is simply a fantastic chap. Before I had even left the store he had four posters up inside and outside which was so much appreciated. Seaton if you are reading this you are one hell of a good guy and I really appreciate how warm and welcoming you were.  Thank you.

The scenery changed markedly and we were surrounded by arid and sparse vegetation growing on the large mountains and plains on either side of the road. A breath-taking sight awaited us as we approached the massive Jozini Dam with its long mountain range snaking its way along next to the watery expanse. Suddenly there were fertile fields of irrigated crops, which was in stark contrast to the barren natural vegetation. We drove uphill along the side of a mountain looking down a steep cliff over the dam and on up to Jozini which was abuzz with locals shopping and going to market. After finding parking I had a quick meeting with Paulus.

On the way back to Pongola I decided to pop in and visit an old friend Sean Lubbe who was the manager of Tiger Valley Lodge, a very stylish resort overlooking the Dam. Sean had been manager of a well-known Durban watering hole years ago and I had enjoyed many evenings of fun with him and a band of mutual friends. He was in fine spirits and was enjoying running his new charge. We shot the breeze for a while and were kindly offered a coffee by Sean. Sitting on the deck I could understand why his establishment was fully booked. I am sure a mixture of excellent management and an amazing place.

We then pointed our chariot back to Pongola and called it quits for the day. After getting in late yesterday and too busy to ride today was wonderful as we were finished all our work by 4 pm. We pulled on our running shoes and as I type this we have just returned from a 12,5 km walk/run around the cane fields of Pongola (total distance today over 16 kms). We are back in the Koppie Alleen guesthouse and if you ever find yourself in Pongola look no further. This is the place to stay.