Today’s tidbit: “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” — Lao Tzu

Need a little break from this FREEZING weather? Back to South Africa posts! Last time I left off with day 7 at Hannah Game Lodge. Continuing on with a long road trip, we headed to our next destination – Casa do Sol. We broke the journey up traveling along the Panorama Route, which is best known for its cultural heritage and its dramatic landscapes. From God’s Window to Blyde River Canyon, it was nothing but breathtaking views and adventure on a beautiful sunny day.

Sneak peek image:

Be sure to click below to read more and check out more pictures. Enjoy!

Out first stop was to Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, where God’s Window and Blyde River Canyon are 2 of the spectacular viewpoints along the route.

{God’s Window} Check it out.

As the website states, “No brochure, website or travel magazine will prepare you for the spectacular view from God’s Window, one of the most scenic vantage points in South Africa, situated along the Panorama Route in the Mpumalanga province.

God’s Window is a highlight along what is known as the Panorama Route in the eastern Mpumalanga province. The natural wonders on the route range from cascading waterfalls to impressive mountain gorges. Along with God’s Window, other well-known spots on the route include Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, the Mac Mac Falls and the Blyde River Canyon.”

{Blyde River Canyon} Check it out.

As the website states, “The fresh mountain scenery and panoramic views over the Klein Drakensberg escarpment are quite spectacular and give the area its name of ‘Panorama Route‘.”

We were able to take advantage of some of the trails, hiking along the falls. It was an amazing afternoon.

At the end of the trail there were some shops with handmade crafts. Throughout the trip I enjoyed talking with the locals and hearing their stories.

After a full day of exploring and fresh air, we stopped at Harrie’s Pancakes for lunch where I was able to get another gluten free pancake. Delicious.

Final stop along the way to Casa do Sol was a large market area. I did get a few handmade things, but my favorite part was talking with the locals. In the photos below the little girl was a street performer helping her mom, who was with her younger sister. We ended up talking with the single mom who said she’s trying to save enough so her two girls can have a better live. They were all so sweet and interesting to talk with.

Amazing bead work! Can you imagine how many beads went into the zebra or horse below? They were so gorgeous with such a tremendous amount of detail.

{Lodging Casa do Sol} Check it out.

After a busy day we made it to our next stop, where we would be staying for 2 nights. As I mentioned in the beginning of my SA posts, we experienced many different kinds of accommodation. Casa do Sol was so beautiful and tranquil with spanish influence. Below are some pictures of the entrance, grounds, rooms, gardens and pool area.

{dining} Last but not least was the dining area. After busy adventurous days we spent the 2 evening we were here sitting outside watching the sunset and stars while sipping on wine and talking with our group. It was perfect.

The famous LOOKOUT wine (and dessert), which quickly became an inside joke throughout the trip!

And that was another amazing day! It’s hard to believe we fit so much in. Isn’t it lovely?! Such a beautiful place! Check back next week for another SA post, at Kruger National Park.