The Winter 2022 issue of Stellenbosch Visio has just hit the shelves. Our editor France Beyers shares her thoughts on the latest issue.
There are few things that make me feel as alive … and as young … as when I am horseback riding. This I realised again recently when an opportunity presented itself to get back in the saddle.
Over the past two years, while in lockdown, my life has revolved around my home. In a wonderful centredness, I have packed away and cleaned out and baked and settled into a very comfortable routine. But now, post-pandemic, I feel driven by a need to add some adventure to my life, to push my boundaries and reclaim the wider world.
This is where my newfound enthusiasm for horse-riding came in. I grew up on a farm and had my own horse until I left home to study at Stellenbosch University. Even though I have done some riding over the years, I have not been an active rider for quite some time. When an invitation came to hike the Baviaans Camino, and I saw in the ‘small print’ this trail could also be done on horseback, I was in, boots and all.
Four days through the mountains of the Baviaanskloof on horseback – with no cellphone reception – sounded like heaven. I crossed my fingers and hoped my not-18- anymore body would cope!
It follows, then, that this issue of Stellenbosch Visio is designed to pack considerable horsepower, with its focus on horses, men and adventurous exploits for both sexes. Stellenbosch’s own racing legend Giniel de Villiers shares stories about his adventures in the Dakar race (p. 120). Ian McLaren takes the Continental GT Speed coupé for an eye-popping spin through Helshoogte to the summit of the Franschhoek Pass (p. 66). Dieter Losskarn puts various all-wheel-drive SUVs to the test (p. 100). And Jacques Marais – proponent of pedal-power – reports back on an exhilarating ‘spiritual bike journey’ on the gravel track of the Namaqua Coastal Route of the Bikamino (p. 104).
For more sedate journeys, there’s always the one where you don’t drive, but drink. Read more about our favour- ite tipples for winter: Cabernet, brandy and Pinot Noir.
Maar die testosteroon gaan nie heeltemal oorneem nie. Elsa Krüger steek kerse aan om sublieme geure tuis te versprei (p. 90) en Jackie Burger vertel van die rus wat die Karoo na haar gees gebring het (p. 86). Dave Pepler skryf ’n loflied op die winter se beste geskenk aan ons … die goue aardsheid van suurlemoene (p. 126). Ek gaan onmiddellik nog ’n suurlemoenboom in my tuin plant.
PS Remember to treat your Dad or a loved-one to a gift that shows you care – order here.
