Groot Constantia...

After a relaxing Monday afternoon on which Riaan had a play-date with his second cousin, Matthew, our final "touristy" thing to do as a family was visiting Groot Constantia on Tuesday, 28th December. Established in 1685, Groot Constantia is South Africa's oldest wine farm and the manor house (pictured here) is built in the classic Cape Dutch architecture style. 

Mom and Dad and Debbie picked us up and drove us there, and we had a lovely time walking in the abundant grounds. Lindsay and Nina also joined us when we were up at the historic swimming bath. 

From Groot Constantia, we picked up lunch at a butchery/deli in Constantia and then went through to Debbie's school. Here our kiddos had a wonderful time playing at the school's playground, while we ate our lunches at the picnic tables. It was a lovely day! :)

View over rolling vineyards to Constantiaberg.

Bunches of grapes growing at Groot Constantia.

Walking up the avenue towards the historic swimming bath.

The historic swimming bath - which dates from the 1790s.

My family exploring the swimming bath.

Looking down towards Linds and Nina heading our way.

Hadeda ibis.

Another view of Constantiaberg and the radio tower on top.

Pretty flower on a berry bush.

Wild berries.

A pretty flower - similar to the lavender plant.

Morning glory.

Nasturtium flowers.

Brilliant yellow cannas.

Group photo as we hike through the wine estate.

Relaxing in the shade of a willow tree.

Riaan plays "Cork Cricket" with uncle Lindsay. He was tossing a discarded wine cork to Linds who was hitting it with his umbrella. :)

The historic wine cellar at Groot Constantia.

Watching the ducks at the duck pond behind the manor house.

Ducks serenely paddling on the still waters.

Family photo outside the back of the manor house.

Just starting married life in this photo at the same location in 2012.

Riaan running past the rows of vineyards.

City sightseeing bus.

View from Constantia Glen.

Playing at the school playground.

Grandad and Eliza play a basketball-type game.

Sweet Eliza on the giraffe.

Riaan relaxes on the climbing wall.

Enjoying resting at the picnic tables.