Candace and I joined a group of new friends in visiting the picturesque village of Rhodes in the southern Drakensberg (South Africa's largest mountain range) over the long weekend. (14th - 17th July.) This town is just 16 kilometres south of the border with Lesotho, and is 1,821 metres (almost 6,000 feet) above sea-level. It was very cold! Rhodes was built towards the end of the 1800s and was named after Cecil John Rhodes, a prominent statesman and mining magnate in South Africa's history. Walking through the town, there are many reminders that this town is a national heritage site. Many of the houses have remained unchanged since they were built over a century ago. It is almost like stepping back in time!
We spent the weekend enjoying the peace and quiet of the countryside, taking lovely walks in beautiful surroundings, browsing in interesting craft and pottery shops, and enjoying getting to know new friends. It was a much-needed weekend away!
On the drive back to Zithulele, we went over the pass of Naude's Nek. It links Rhodes with Maclear and is the highest dirt road in South Africa. The summit of the road is almost 2,600 metres or 8,500 feet above sea-level!
Snow on the mountains as we approach Rhodes.
Sign welcoming us to Rhodes.
The lovely house we stayed in for our weekend away.
Quaint houses on either side of the street.
Old phone booth outside the historic post office.
The historic post office.
An antique cash register in the village's hotel.
Antique phones, also in the hotel.
Candace with an old farming implement.
Large chess set in the small park.
Interesting building - note the milk pails!
Here's a closer look!
Avenue of white trees.
View towards the mountains.
The valley in which Rhodes is situated is so beautiful.
Bridge over the river.
Man on horse.
A tractor and hay stored under a rock overhang.
Black-headed sheep.
Turnip crop.
Sheep being herded home for the night.
Out to dinner with Zithulele friends.
Frozen river bank.
Ice in the river.
Farm worker's homes.
Lovely rural scene just outside of Rhodes.
Miniature Table Mountain on the drive home.
Approaching Naude's Nek.
Ice on the side of the road.
View from the top.
Impressive bird of prey keeps watch.
Conical hill.
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