After the first big rains of autumn, salve the winter flowers appear all over Stanford. It is a magical time of year where seemingly overnight the landscape changes colour. Not only are the streets lined with crimson, gold and orange as the leaves carpet the ground, but the hills themselves turn a beautiful pink as the Erica irregularis comes to bloom. This time of year is always a big surprise as the beautiful winter flowers burst forth all over, reminding us that winter is also a beautiful season!
In keeping with the surprises of the season, we decided to dream up a wonderful surprise this winter. If you love mystery and adventure, then you are in for a huge treat this June. We are very excited to announce that we will be offering the first ever Stanford Surprise Weekend from 19-21 June. For R3500 you and your partner can enjoy a romantic weekend break in our charming village that includes a beautiful accommodation with a view for two nights, two breakfasts, and a delicious meal at a top restaurant, and, of course, a few extra surprises thrown in. Spaces are limited so book now for this wonderful offer.
Apart from the Stanford Surprise, there are lots of things to do in Stanford during your stay so why not escape to the country this winter for some wonderful winter warmers. On Saturday, 23 May, Dorian Haarhoff will be visiting Stanford for ‘A String of Beads Wordshop’. In the evening of Saturday 23 May, the Con Spirito Choir from Kleinmond, will be performing at the NG Church in Stanford. Soloists include Stanford-born Louis Fourie (a la Ivan Rebroff) and our own Bea Whittaker for what is certain to be a great evening of music. Tickets are available from Stanford Tourism. The ever popular Stanford Sunset Market is ready to delight locals and visitors on Friday, 29 May with great artisan food, delicious local wine, and live entertainment. Last but by no means least, is the Stanford Beer Festival on Saturday, 30 May at Stanford Hills Estate. Live bands, artisan food and kid’s activities but the real star is the craft beer from the Overberg.
The Hermanus FynArts Festival is back, with a programme that’s bursting at the seams. Stay in tranquil Stanford, only 25km from Hermanus, while you watch the shows in Hermanus and enjoy best of both worlds. All tickets can now be purchased via Webtickets and at Hermanus Tourism. The full line-up is now available on the brand new website www.hermanusfynarts.co.za
Visit Stanford on Saturday, 20 June, for the annual Penguin Plunge. On a day close to the winter solstice, the locals jump into the freezing river to raise money for charity.
That’s all for now, folks. And remember, if anyone asks where you got your news… tell them you heard it through the Grapevine!
Chantel