14.8 C
Cape Town
Friday, June 26, 2026
Home Blog Page 84

Karoo Winter Wool Festival 2024 Celebrating South Africa’s Rich Wool Heritage

Agri News
-
0

Set against the rugged backdrop of Middelburg in the Eastern Cape, the Karoo Winter Wool Festival is returning for its third edition from 14 – 16 June 2024. This festival is not just an event; it’s a celebration of natural fibers, the rich heritage of the Karoo, and the vital role that wool plays in South Africa’s economy.

Hosted at the scenic Dwarsvlei Guest Farm, the festival kicks off on 14 June with a selection of educational and entertaining activities, including historical tours and various wool workshops. The day’s events conclude with a gala dinner at Karel Theron Primary School, where industry leaders gather to discuss and network.

Friday’s schedule is packed with highlights, including “Landbou Weekblad Familieboerdery Meestersklas”, Wool market, food stalls and the much-anticipated Wool Fashion Showcase. Curated by Merchants on Long, this event promises to blend high fashion with the authentic essence of the Karoo, showcasing garments against the landscape that inspired them. The speaker programme includes experts like Dr. Bruce Rubidge and Merino SA discussing the future of farming and the significance of natural fibers.

Saturday continues the theme with more interactive wool workshops and a lively wool market with Merino studs. The festival also offers a unique cultural experience with the “Fibre Focus” session featuring Peter Ackroyd (Campaign for Wool) and the Threads team. The day concludes with live demonstrations, a captivating wine tasting at Babylonstoren and a traditional Karoo Braai with live music, epitomizing the spirit of local camaraderie and celebration.

Throughout the festival, attendees can immerse themselves in a series of live demonstrations that showcase the versatility and utility of wool. These include shearing demos that reveal the skill and precision involved in wool harvesting, as well as spinning and knitting machine demonstrations that illustrate the journey from raw fiber to finished textile. Additional presentations will explore the innovative uses of wool in insulation and garment care, emphasizing its importance in sustainable living and fashion.

The festival closes on Sunday with more intimate farm tours and a charity run & ride through the beautiful Karoo Koppies, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to community and sustainability.
Beyond the wool and festivities, the Karoo Winter Wool Festival stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of wool in the region, tracing back to the arrival of the first Merino sheep by Robert Gordon in 1789. This historical context not only enriches the festival’s significance, but also celebrates the continued innovation and excellence in the South African wool industry.

For more information visit www.karoowinterwoolfestival.com

Wian Smith Lei Implementering van Biologiese Middels vir Volhoubare Landbou in Vyeboom

Agri News
-
0
Wian Smith Lei Implementering van Biologiese Middels vir Volhoubare Landbou in Vyeboom

Wian is 14 jaar deel van die InteliGro-span met sy depot in Vyeboom, in die hart van die kernvrug- en wingerdverbouiingstreek in die Wes-Kaap.

“Biologiese middels moet deel van ‘n produsent se geïntegreerde benadering op die plaas wees wat beide sintetiese en biologiese middels insluit. Landbou is midde ’n transformasieproses en daarom het die manier waarop kos geproduseer word ook oor die afgelope paar jaar dramaties verander. Om in pas te bly moet ons as insetverskaffers voorlopers wees en met volhoubare oplossings na die produsent kan gaan,” sê hy.

Verskeie faktore dryf die implementering van biologiese middels in ’n gewasbeskermingsprogram, waaronder marktoegang en verbruikers se voorkeure. “Verbruikers en aankopers vereis minimum tot zero residuvlakke en die klem word verder al meer op nasporing geplaas in die “Farm to Fork”-benadering. Verder, soos die globale populasie vermeerder, is die druk op produsente al groter om gesonde en voedsame kos te voorsien,” verduidelik Wian.

Hy wys verder daarop dat daar n globale dryf is om die toediening van intetiese plaagdoders drasties te verminder, veral in Europese lande.

“Dit is ’n verdere rede waarom die bedryf baie fokus plaas op geïntegreerde en omgewingsvriendelike plaagbestuur.”

Die voordeel is egter ook dat geïntegreerde oplossings die produsent ondersteun om meer volhoubaar te boer terwyl die omgewing en ekosisteme beskerm word.

“Plaagbeheerprogramme wat biologiese middels insluit lei uiteraard na die gebruik van minder sintetiese chemiese middels, beter grondbiologie en gesonder grond vir verbeterde waterretensie en groeikragtigheid van plante, die beskerming van voordelige organismes en beter aanwending

van natuurlike predatore. Al hierdie elemente ondersteun gesamentlik landboupraktyke wat in balans met die natuur is,” sê hy.

Wian het aan die hand van ’n onlangse beheerprogram verduidelik hoe hy die biologiese oplossings implementering ervaar.

“In ons area is witluis en wollerige appelluis ‘n groot probleem en in die verlede het ons geweldig gesukkel om die populasie onder beheer te hou. Sowat vier jaar gelede het ons op geïntegreerde programme begin gefokus wat ’n sterk biologiese aanslag insluit en hande gevat met ander verskaffers en besigheidsvennote om die probleem aan te spreek. So het ons vennootskap met Andermatt Madumbi begin. Vandag sien ons werklik ’n verskil en is baie opgewonde oor die huidige resultate, en ook oor die toekoms.”

“Dit is egter nie voldoende om net produkte aan te wend nie. Dit bly krities belangrik dat die boorde gereeld gemoniteer word. Ons kan dit nie genoeg beklemtoon nie. Jy moet weet wat in jou boord aangaan sodat jy die geskikte regstellende stappe kan neem vir die beste resultate”

“Winsgrense word al hoe kleiner en daarom baseer ons by InteliGro ons aanslag op beginsel van “die regte produk, op die regte tyd, vir die regte rede”,” sluit Wian af.

Kontak Wian Smith: [email protected]

Explore the Rich Tapestry of FynArts Festival 2024 with Art, Music, and Culinary Delights in Hermanus

Agri News
-
0

From 7-17 June 2024, the scenic coastal town of Hermanus transforms into a bustling hub of artistic expression as it hosts the FynArts Festival. This year’s festival not only highlights the artistic talent of renowned local and international artists, but also features a blend of visual, performing, and culinary arts.

Festival goers can once again look forward to a stimulating and entertaining program presented as a fusion of an Arts Festival and Winter School. This vibrant and educational showcase promises a compelling selection of exhibitions, performances, and workshops designed to inspire, entertain, and educate. As a celebration of arts and culture, FynArts combines these elements into a unique and engaging experience that captivates and delights attendees.

Art Exhibitions

The 2024 FynArts Festival Artist, Mikhael Subotzky, headlines the visual arts sector with an extensive display of his photographic works and recent collages at the FynArts Gallery. Other galleries and studios across Hermanus will host specially curated exhibitions, ensuring art lovers can immerse themselves in a wide range of artistic expressions.

Notable among these is the “Sculpture on the Cliffs” exhibition, where eleven artists present large-scale installations against the dramatic backdrop of Hermanus’s cliffs, offering a unique synthesis of art and nature. All previous participants in Sculpture on the Cliffs are each year invited to exhibit smaller indoor artworks; this year, these can be viewed at The Marine Hotel, which also hosts the Bonsai Exhibition. Additionally, the ceramics group exhibition, “Chromatic Clay,” will once again be hosted at the Windsor Hotel, featuring a vibrant and quirky display of contemporary ceramic art.

Music & Theatre

This year, FynArts expands its performance repertoire to include two theatre productions and a dance performance, alongside its traditional music concerts. The opening concert features violinist Emmanuel Bach and the FynArts orchestra, setting a high standard for subsequent musical showcases. The diverse musical program ranges from classical symphonies to traditional African sounds, modern jazz, opera, and a cappella, ensuring there is something to suit every musical taste.
Other musical performances include the Cape Town VOX choir, Mizar Trio, The Generation Gaps, Scullery Quintet, Enlighten String Ensemble, and the Whale Coast Symphony Orchestra. On Saturday, 15 June, the festival will host a Choir Celebration, sharing the joy of singing with learners from four primary school choirs – Lukhanyo, Waldorf, Zwelihle, and Mount Pleasant. Each performance offers a unique glimpse into different cultures, traditions, and perspectives.

Fynarts Fynarts

Inspirational Talks & Award Presentations

The festival’s intellectual offerings are highlighted by the Strauss & Co Series of Talks and Presentations, where thought leaders from various fields discuss art, literature, history, and contemporary issues. A special highlight is the presentation of the FynArts Legacy Award to William Kentridge, the internationally acclaimed South African artist, who will also deliver the keynote address, offering insights into his illustrious career and artistic philosophy.

From ancient civilizations to more recent events that shaped our world, this year’s lineup of speakers will recap, recount, and discuss pivotal moments, forgotten tales, as well as remarkable and interesting figures that thread the tapestry of human experiences.
Among the notable sessions, Joanne Gibson, an award-winning wine writer, presents an intriguing exploration of Vergenoegd, one of the oldest and most intact of the early wine farms of the Cape of Good Hope. Her talk, titled “Early Cape Wine Farms,” delves into the farm’s 18th-century art and architecture and examines a conspiracy theory about the legendary Constantia wine.

Educational Workshops for All Ages

FynArts offers a comprehensive range of workshops catering to both amateurs and seasoned artists, covering diverse topics such as ceramics, painting, drawing, monoprinting, writing, photography, botany, cooking, candle making, bonsai, and flower arranging. Complementing these hands-on sessions, the festival also features daily presentations, interviews, and panel discussions that delve into these artistic and intellectual subjects.

Each workshop and session is carefully designed to provide personalized attention, ensuring that participants gain substantial skills and knowledge, thereby enhancing the festival’s reputation as a dynamic educational hub for creative pursuits.

Fynarts Fynarts

Gourmet Experiences and Wine Exploration

The culinary series is a festival highlight, featuring demonstrations and workshops led by renowned chefs. Attendees can explore a variety of cuisines and cooking techniques, from poke bowls and sushi to traditional South African dishes. The festival also offers numerous food and wine pairings, hosted by top chefs and wine producers, including lunches, dinners, and morning teas.
Additionally, the ‘Wines of Note’ series offers a deep dive into some of South Africa’s finest vineyards, with guidance from experts such as winemaker Tertius Boshoff and wine writer Tim James. Complementing this, JP Rossouw’s three-part series, ‘Music in Wine,’ provides an innovative pairing of melodies with vintages, enhancing the wine tasting experience.

Fynarts

The Festival Hub

Central to this year’s festival is the Festival Hub at the Municipal Banqueting Hall, where attendees can relax, meet, and browse a selection of books and products by festival presenters and local creatives. This space serves as a social and informational hub, enhancing the communal feel of the festival.

The complete program for the 2024 FynArts Festival is available for review at www.hermanusfynarts.co.za Tickets can be purchased online through Webtickets, the FynArts website, at Pick n Pay stores or Hermanus Tourism Bureau.

For further information or inquiries, please contact 060 957 5371
or via email at [email protected]

2025 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event Seeks Nominations for Visionary Leaders

Agri News
-
0
2025 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event Seeks Nominations for Visionary Leaders

South Africa is the only country in the world that can accurately pinpoint the exact date of origin of its wine industry, thanks to Jan van Riebeeck’s diary entry on 2 February 1659, which read: “Today, praise be to God, wine was made for the first time from Cape grapes”.

WHAT is the Wine Harvest Commemorative Event?

The 2025 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event will be hosted at Groot Constantia in February to mark the official birthday of the SA wine industry in 1659. The Event also serves as a blessing of the new harvest and the South African wine industry pays official tribute to, and honours, role players for their ground-breaking contributions.

In February 2025, at the Wine Harvest Commemorative Event, the 2025 recipients will be announced.

HOW do I get involved?

The Wine Harvest Commemorative Event is now calling on all in the industry to nominate potential candidates to be considered for recognition in the following categories, according to the set criteria:

THE 1659 AWARD FOR VISIONARY LEADERSHIP

The person or institution who receives recognition in the 1659 Award for Visionary Leadership should have made an essential contribution towards the industry, of which there must be substantial evidence. The industry (or a specific aspect thereof) must have been influenced positively by it and must have a lasting impact with all indications of a special legacy. It must be worthy of praise and significantly changed people’s thinking and/or lives. There must be clear indications of intellectual conceptualising the idea, which must be creative, innovative, unique, and proven in practice. It should encourage and inspire others in the industry to do the same or even better.

VITI- AND VINICULTURE CATEGORY

The person or institution who receives recognition in the Viticulture and Viniculture Category should have developed new ideas, technologies and methods within the wine-making industry, implementing and transferring these ideas and methodologies, changing mindsets, and benefitting the South African wine industry overall.

WINE ADVANCEMENT CATEGORY

The person or institution who receives recognition in the Wine Advancement Category should have made noticeable contributions towards the image of wine and the responsible use of it, as well as building the image of the South African wine industry as a whole through their width of reach.

GROWING INCLUSIVITY CATEGORY

The person or institution who receives recognition in the Growing Inclusivity Category should go to a recipient who has set an inspirational example, paving the way for others through the elimination of barriers, contributing to the knowledge that others can use, and having an overall effect on the image of the South African wine industry.

Please Note: Nominations received will be kept on record and could be used again for future consideration if not successful in the specific year of nomination.

PAST WINNERS

Over the years, numerous luminaries have been recognised, including Nelson Mandela, Unsung Wine Workers, Norma Ratcliffe, Beyers Truter, Charles Back, Carmen Stevens and Ken Forrester. In 2024, Tim Hutchinson, Ilse Ruthford, Cathy Marston, and Dawid Saayman were also added to this noteworthy list.

Wine Harvest Commemorative Event engages the hearts and minds of people in the local wine industry and everyone passionate about South African wine – thank you for your support!

To enter your nominations for the 2025 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event, please click here: https://sawineharvest.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2025-Nomination-Form.docx.

THE CLOSING DATE FOR NOMINATIONS IS

MONDAY 1 JULY 2024

Send your nominations to [email protected].

This event is made possible through the generous support of Groot Constantia and our sponsors.

InteliGro Appoints AJ Griesel as New Managing Director

Agri News
-
0
InteliGro Appoints AJ Griesel as New Managing Director

Effective 1 June 2024, InteliGro enters an exciting new chapter, as we welcome AJ Griesel as new Managing Director.

AJ fills the position of Managing Director after Gideon Hefer stepped into a new role in the WinField United South Africa Group.

AJ most recently led the South African Table Grape Industry as Chief Executive Officer and with over 20 years of experience in the agricultural industry, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team.

AJ places emphasis on leading people so that business performance, operational excellence and profitable growth are achieved and accelerated.

“I am excited to join this team of experts and innovators,” says AJ, “Together, we will continue to build upon the strong foundation and seize new opportunities for growth.”

During the coming weeks and months, AJ will be traveling across the country to meet with the respective InteliGro teams and stakeholders. “Together, we are poised to embark on a journey of knowledge, innovation, and success for the grower.”

About InteliGro

InteliGro is a provider of integrated crop solutions, with a complete network in South Africa and Namibia. The company was formed in 2016 after the amalgamation of Terason (1999) and TechniChem (1989) and today is an undisputed leader in sustainable agronomy solutions in South Africa.

Sustainability and the success of our growers are at the heart of the InteliGro business, with the goal to optimise and protect crops to deliver high-quality yields. The value-offering includes a total solution ranging from soil conditioning, seeds, plant nutrition, crop protection, customised solutions, supportive technology, training, and trusted client relationships to ensure the best support on the farm.

With a team of certified crop advisors, experienced technical specialists, top-quality suppliers, and comprehensive product ranges, InteliGro is in the best position to supply expert crop advice, scientifically based insights, and integrated crop solutions – while keeping the focus on food safety and -security in South Africa.

 

EcoTraining Advocates for Ecosystem Health on World Environment Day

Agri News
-
0
EcoTraining Advocates for Ecosystem Health on World Environment Day

EcoTraining, a premier provider of professional field guide and nature training, highlights its dedication to World Environment Day, marked globally on June 5. In line with this year’s theme, “Eco Restoration for Ecosystem Health,” EcoTraining emphasizes its commitment to conservation education and sustainable practices, aligning with its mission to foster a deep connection with nature and encourage environmental stewardship.

Education and Empowerment

Anton Lategan, EcoTraining’s Managing Director, expresses the organization’s enthusiasm for this significant day, viewing it as a chance to collaborate globally in efforts to protect the planet. He underscores the pivotal role of education in inspiring positive environmental actions, stating, “Education is the key to fostering a deeper connection with nature and inspiring positive change.”

Community Engagement and Sustainable Practices

EcoTraining’s initiatives are multifaceted, focusing on conservation education, community outreach, sustainable operations, and advocacy. Their educational programs offer a comprehensive understanding of ecology, wildlife conservation, and sustainability. These courses are designed not only to enlighten but also to equip participants with essential skills for environmental preservation.

The organization actively involves local communities in conservation efforts, working alongside tourism partners and sponsors to educate schools and community groups. This engagement helps to cultivate a culture of conservation and environmental guardianship across diverse groups.

Advocacy for Environmental Change

In its operations, EcoTraining prioritizes sustainability, striving to minimize its environmental impact and set a standard in eco-conscious practices within the tourism industry. Additionally, through various platforms including social media and community events, EcoTraining advocates for environmental policies and raises awareness about critical issues, further cementing its role as a leader in environmental education and advocacy.

As World Environment Day approaches, EcoTraining looks forward to continuing its mission, empowering future generations to become effective guardians of our natural heritage.

Outeniqua Research Farm Advancing Agricultural Practices for 70 Years

Agri News
-
0

Established in 1953, the Outeniqua Research Farm is located southwest of George in the Eden District and covers approximately 300 hectares with varied irrigation setups. As it celebrates its 70th anniversary, the farm not only supports a significant Jersey dairy herd but also hosts a range of other departmental programs, including education, veterinary services, and sustainable resource management. This diverse operation has become pivotal in providing science-based agricultural solutions, focusing significantly on dairy production through advanced pasture management.

Research and Development in Dairy Production

The Outeniqua Research Farm is renowned for its extensive research into dairy production from planted pastures. Led by experts such as Professor Robin Meeske, the research teams focus on optimizing the management of soil, plants, and animals as a continuum. Advanced trials on commercially available pasture species assess factors like dry matter production, sustainability, and pest resistance. This research not only helps in selecting optimal cultivars for local conditions, but also enhances the overall profitability and sustainability of dairy farming in the region.

During a recent visit, Dr. Ivan Meyer, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, emphasized the farm’s role in backing agriculture with evidence-based research. “Our research aims to help grow the agricultural sector and support producers in developing their businesses and creating jobs,” he noted. The farm’s efforts in improving pasture quality and yield significantly contribute to local dairy businesses by optimizing feed costs and enhancing milk production efficiency.

Community Engagement and Educational Contributions

The farm also plays a crucial role in community and educational programs, hosting events like Farmers’ Days to disseminate its latest findings. This cultivates a close relationship with local producers and ensures the farm’s research remains directly relevant and beneficial to the industry.

As the farm moves forward, it continues to adapt and respond to the needs of modern agriculture, ensuring it remains at the forefront of agricultural research and producer support in the Southern Cape.

How Rooibos Farming Fuels SA’s Wellness and Agricultural Growth

Agri News
-
0

In South Africa, the agricultural landscape is witnessing a transformative era, driven by the burgeoning global demand for wellness tourism. At the heart of this revolution lies Rooibos, an indigenous bush whose leaves, once fermented, yield a rich red herbal tea renowned for its health benefits.

This unique crop, exclusive to the Cederberg region of the Western Cape, is not only a staple beverage, but is also emerging as a key player in the wellness tourism sector.

Cultivating Rooibos

The Rooibos industry is rooted in a tradition that spans generations, with local farmers cultivating the plant in harmony with the region’s biodiversity. This cultivation process is crucial, as Rooibos thrives under specific environmental conditions that are unique to South Africa.

This makes its farming a delicate balance of traditional practices and modern agricultural techniques. Today, Rooibos farming not only supports local agriculture, but also contributes significantly to the wellness tourism market, which is experiencing rapid growth worldwide.

Enhancing Wellness Tourism with Rooibos

An integral part of promoting Rooibos involves Rooibos tasting tours. These tours cater to the curious palate, offering an exploration of flavour and aroma guided by knowledgeable experts. Visitors have the opportunity to sip freshly brewed Rooibos, while learning about its cultivation, processing, and numerous health benefits.

The economic impact of Rooibos extends beyond agriculture, influencing the entire wellness tourism value chain. From wellness retreats located among expansive Rooibos fields to luxury spas offering treatments based on the herb’s antioxidant properties, the integration of Rooibos into wellness experiences offers a sustainable tourism model that benefits local communities.

These initiatives help preserve the unique cultural and natural heritage of the region, while providing economic opportunities.

Moreover, Rooibos farming supports sustainable practices as the crop requires less water than traditional crops and helps prevent soil erosion. This aspect is vital in South Africa’s efforts to combat the effects of climate change and maintain the ecological balance necessary for the crop’s survival.

The increasing global interest in natural and health-promoting products has also opened up new markets for Rooibos, expanding its presence in international markets. This global reach not only boosts the local economy, but also positions South Africa as a leading destination for health and wellness tourism.

With initiatives to increase the visibility and accessibility of Rooibos through tourism, South Africa is not just exporting a product, but an experience – a testament to the country’s rich agricultural heritage and its innovative approach to combining tourism with sustainable agriculture.

As Rooibos continues to gain popularity, it exemplifies how traditional crops can lead to new avenues for economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Innovations and Insights in Viticulture and Oenology

Agri News
-
0

The “Technical Yearbook 2023” is a comprehensive resource designed for professionals in the viticulture and oenology sectors, featuring an extensive collection of research articles, practical tips, and updates on the latest developments in the field. This yearbook is divided into several sections, each catering to specific aspects of vineyard and winery management.

South Africa Wine compiles all technical articles published throughout the year in WineLand Media, known as the Technical Yearbook at the end of each year. The inception of the Technical Yearbook dates back to 2005, when it was first published under the name Wynboer Technical Yearbook. The key findings of the yearbook cover a range of vital topics.

Viticulture: This section focuses on innovative practices and research aimed at improving vine health and productivity. Topics include the management of vine water stress, late pruning techniques, and the use of seaweed-based biostimulants. It also covers biodiversity in vineyards, the impact of soil compaction on agriculture, and methods to optimize root health. Several studies discuss the use of winery wastewater for irrigation, demonstrating a keen interest in sustainable practices.

Oenology: The yearbook explores the science of winemaking, presenting findings on the effects of light exposure on wine, understanding minerality, and exploring natural methods to enhance aroma during fermentation. There’s also a focus on technological advances such as micro-agglomeration in yeast rehydration and the impact of various fermentation gases. This section aims to refine the quality and efficiency of wine production through scientific research and innovation.

Practical Tips: Both in the vineyard and the cellar, the yearbook offers actionable advice for day-to-day operations. Topics range from irrigation techniques to disease management, highlighting the integration of new research findings into practical applications. For example, it discusses the influence of climate change on vine physiology and the practical implications for grape quality and winemaking.

The ‘Technical Yearbook 2023’ explores additional key topics such as sustainability practices, including organic farming and the use of recycled materials. It discusses advancements in grape breeding for disease resistance and yield improvement, and analyses market trends and consumer behaviours.

The yearbook updates on new legal and regulatory impacts, offers insights into the global wine trade, and covers technological innovations like artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things in operations, alongside health and safety best practices in vineyards and wineries.

The yearbook rounds off with general articles that include discussions on climate change, the importance of knowledge transfer, and the role of women in the industry. It emphasizes the need for adaptability and innovation in response to changing environmental and market conditions.

The 2023 Technical Yearbook, as well as all the previously published Technical Yearbooks,
are available at www.sawine.co.za/knowledge/technical-yearbooks

Ontdek die Betowerende Skoonheid van Marokko met TE Toere

Agri News
-
0

Die kleingroeptoere is die hart van TE Toere, ontwerp vir dié wat ‘n dieper betrokkenheid met die plekke wat hulle besoek wil beleef. Hierdie toere word sorgvuldig saamgestel om ‘n onvergeetlike ervaring te bied. Sluit aan by TE Toere op reis na Marokko vanaf 7 – 20 Oktober 2024.

Marokko – eksoties en aards, maar lewendig in kleur, klank en geur. ‘n Reis deur die hart van die Juweel van die Maghreb, waar antieke geskiedenis en ‘n geleefde kultuur hand aan hand loop, en asemrowende landskappe om elke draai ontvou, van vergesigte oor woestynlandskappe tot lowergroen valleie en oases, die majestueuse Atlas-gebergtes en uitgestrekte kuslyn langs die Atlantiese en Middelandse Seë.

Ons avontuur begin in Rabat, die hoofstad, moderniteit naatloos langs ‘n ryk verlede, van die majestueuse Hassan Toring tot die Kasbah van die Udayas – onmiskenbaar Andalusies. Vandaar na Fes met sy kronkelende stegies in die enorme medina – ’n Wêrelderfenisgebied, waar ou wêreldse ambagte nog steeds beoefen word met die aroma van eksotiese speserye in die lug en die dringende geroep “Balak Balak!” (Opsy, Opsy!) van haastige pakmuile en hul drywers, wat weergalm en besige klante vinnig uit die pad laat skarrel.

Marokko

Marrakesh, ’n malse kaleidoskoop van kleure en klanke. Die verleiding van die bedrywige souks, gepak met anderwêreldse koopware en die indrukwekkende Bahia-paleis waar ’n baie belangrike amptenaar van die koning eens met sy uitgebreide harem huis gehou het. Die tydlose sjarme van Essaouira, in die seerower-tyd genoem Mogador, met die Atlantiese Oseaan al klotsend teen die hoë antieke stadsmure. ’n Koel seebries moedig mens aan deur die witgekalkte straatjies gepak met kleurvolle winkels, koffieplekke, restaurante en kunsgallerye – ’n kunstenaarsparadys sonder enige aanstellerigheid.

Geen besoek aan Marokko is volledig sonder ’n kameelrit deur die duine van die Sahara woestyn nie. Die suggende plof van plomp kameelpote deur die poeiersand dra mens tot by ’n Berber-kamp vir ’n onvergeetlike oornag onder die helder sterrehemel.
Die kleingroeptoer in Oktober eindig in die groot stad Casablanca met sy indrukwekkende en moderne Hassan Moskee wat wag staan op die rotse by die see. Ontwerp en vakmanskap wat mens se asem wegslaan, veral as die reuse sederhout plafon geluidloos wegskuif en jy in die ewige bloue Marokkaanse lug kan instaar. Daar is ’n goeie rede waarom Marokko die Juweel van die Maghreb genoem word, die helder ster van Noord Afrika, outentiek, warm en aards – en moenie die beroemde kookkuns vergeet nie – ’n sensoriese ondervinding sonder weerga.

Kontak TE Toere by Club Travel Tygervallei, www.smallgrouptours.co.za 021 914 2265 of [email protected]

1...838485...106Page 84 of 106

Farming

Lifestyle

Sustainability

Resources

Information

Follow us

© All Rights Reserved, Agri News