OK, full disclosure, I am not the world’s biggest fan of wine or animals: However, during a recent stay in South Africa’s Cape Town region, I had fantastic encounters with both Cabernet and big cats.
My itinerary was coordinated by Deon Kitching of new NTA- and Faith Travel Association-member Embrace South Africa Tours. Deon is one of the most thoughtful people I’ve met, and the he is a pro at keeping the focus on highly localized experiences. During my stay, he took me out to his hometown, Paarl, for a couple of nights. This quaint city, located 30 miles east of Cape Town, is a hot spot for wine enthusiasts. While there are dozens of great places to sample the fruits of the vine, I did tastings at Mellasat Vineyards and Laborie Estate.
Small batch is the name of the game at Mellasat, a boutique winery on a beautiful farm. Owner Stephen Richardson said the vineyard’s claim to fame is an award-winning white Pinotage, which has been very well received by the local and international wine community since it was introduced in 1997.
Laborie celebrates its link to the French Huguenots, who annexed the estate property in the late 17th century, by serving Taillefert Wines, with tastings being offered Wednesday to Sunday in the stately manor house. (Bonus tip: If you can secure one of the eight rooms at Laborie Estate, do it. I loved my night in luxurious Suite 5.)
Deon also set me up for the Volunteer for a Day program at Ashia Cheetah Experience, one of his area’s newer attractions. The sanctuary is home to more than 10 retired or rehabilitating cheetahs, and my duties (ahem) included helping with poop scooping, preparing food bowls and assisting with a tour group.
While it was a bit daunting at first, I got used to spending time within 15–20 feet of the majestic creatures. I also got to take Ellie for a walk (see photo), which was an amazing and thankfully peaceful experience.
Through my conversations with the staff members, it was clear that they have a passion for working with the animals. I heard stories from both an Australian woman and a British women who came down and volunteered for two or three months, and they loved it so much that they packed up everything and moved to South Africa to take full-time positions at Ashia.
I also appreciated the sanctuary’s overall approach and goals of preservation and education. The founder, Riana Van Nieuwenhuizen, told me that it would be nearly impossible for cheetahs to survive in major game reserves. The hope is that Ashia could re-introduce healthy cheetahs back into what she called “the protected wild.”
Email Kitching or go to embracesouthafricatours.com to learn more.
NOTE: To read more about the Cape Town part of my visit, see the City Spotlight: Cape Town story.
Top photo: Courier ‘s Pat Henderson takes Ellie for a walk at the Ashia Cheetah Experience in Paarl, South Africa.
Photo by Pat Henderson
