Nestled amongst the trees is Glen Avon, a merino and angora goats working farm and the team has arrived during lambing season. After the Hollywood accommodation in Bedford we are now experiencing the truly country lifestyle. The team has had to adapt to this as as well as not having cell phone reception but the warmth of the hosts and the peace and quiet certainly give the tired travelers the needed rest and rejuvenation after so many days on the road.
There are 2 guest cottages on the farm which are self catering but arrangements can be made for dinner, bed and breakfast facilities. Alison and Bill Brown have opened their house to us and over a great meal are more than willing to chat and share their knowledge of this area.
So much so that Alison has even roped her eldest son, Greg to come and chat to us. Greg has been most informative as he has an extensive knowledge of the natural environment and birding in this area. Somerset East has much to offer for birding enthusiasts and its potential as a bird watching location is definitely not marketed to its advantage.
After a hectic and active morning the team came back to see the Glen Avon Falls with Greg as our tour guide.
There is an entry fee to be paid to the farmer on whose farm the access road lies and Alison charges a small fee for offering guided tours to this amazing natural feature,
After a superb meaty lunch at Afric’ Dream Café we felt we were prepared to take on another active challenge. The Pajero was put through the test over rocky 4×4 terrain.  From parking the Pajero we had about a 15minute walk to the river bed and then a further 15 minutes navigating ourselves over the rocks and streams.
It is a beautiful setting and the tranquility of it all captures you and makes every stumble across the river bed well worth it. The waterfall is not huge but what makes it compelling is the two huge reddish Krantz that imposes on either side of the water as it flows into a trout pool at the base. Trout fishing is another activity offered on the farm. Lindile sat back and reflected that this was far better than the visit to the Eco-shrine.  Throughout the over 2 hour trip Greg enthused with knowledge of trees and birds in this area and this again highlighted the fact to us that Somerset East has much to offer to visitors.
We sank bank into the comfort of the Pajero certainly tired but definitely relaxed, less stressed and very thirsty!

By Rochelle Bradshaw. Pictures: Rudi Louw