How often have you driven on the N1 and told yourself – “I Must Go Up to the Top of Paarl Mountain!”  and then never did it.

I know many of the ladies bear testament to having said this – and so our first stop today was the Taal Monument at the top of Paarl Mountain, where we enjoyed a wonderful cup of coffee at the Uit die Bloute Restaurant and then went on the most informative tour. We were given such insight into the monument, by such a professional young lady – here she is shown with the ladies gathered around her.

Denise Parsons takes TIME OUT to stand in awe and wonder at the views from the Taal Monument. Sandy, Caroline and Chrissie framed by the beautiful view in the background.

When the coach rolled out, we all truly appreciated the absolute beauty we had experienced – definitely another place in the beautiful Western Cape worthy of another visit.

The natural beauty of our Protea in full bloom. Then what has become such a ‘part’ of our days out – a stop off at the Eccentric Trading Shop in Paarl – what a treat – and such a vast array of lovely things to buy! Rosemary Lewis was thrilled to find just the sheet of wrapping paper she needed to use to start a favorite quilt, while Ann Barnes hurries from one end of the shop to the other ‘gathering’. Theresa McEvoy and Patsy Tiffen deciding which bunch of Spring Flowers to buy. Patsy is also thrilled to find these haloween extras for her grandchildren!

Our next stop was the Juno Winehouse also in Main Street where the friendly staff were on hand to serve us a wonderful lunch! This restaurant is a very relaxed, informal type place – where it just begs you to kick off your shoes and enjoy yourself – which the ladies had no problem in doing!

The wonderful art by Tertia du Toit is displayed lovingly on the walls of the restaurant. Deli type mustards, olive oil and jams also displayed so very enticingly – makes you just want to ‘buy’ and ‘take home’ – and, in fact, their tills never stopped

This art by Tertia du Toit depicts how we all felt after our meal at the restaurant – so very relaxed – and ready again to start with our travels back to the city! 
Not ever forgetting our special time in Paarl.