







Spring is coming in hot, and honestly, we’re itching to hit the road.
There’s something about the season that makes you want to throw some clothes in a bag and just drive. Maybe it’s the Northern Cape calling, with those endless roads that stretch to nowhere and everywhere all at once. Or, perhaps, that wild route from the Karoo through to Botswana and Namibia – the kind of trip that changes you.
We’ve packed this issue with gear that actually work (not just the shiny, spendy stuff), a wellness course that might just save your sanity, and routes that’ll remind you how ridiculously beautiful South Africa is. Your car’s probably gathering dust in the driveway – time to change that.
See you out there,
Wellbeing: Giveaway
Great rides
Advertorial: Mont Eco Private Game Reserve
Adventure: Why private game reserves are extraordinary
Advertorial: Radisson Blu Umhlanga Hotel
For 30 years, brothers Dennis and Allen have been purveying exceptional South African beef on the iconic Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton. Their unwavering commitment to excellence has made Trumps Grillhouse the premier destination for steak lovers.
From the legendary tomahawk to the exquisite 10+ marbling rated wagyu ribeye, each cut is a testament to the brothers’ passion. Complement your dining experience with a meticulously curated selection of South Africa’s finest red wines.
Whether you’re a global or local explorer, discerning corporate executive, or celebrating a special moment, Trumps Grillhouse is your ultimate destination.
AT THE SOUTH AFRICAN RESTAURANT AWARDS 2025
Explore: The great Limpopo Skincare
Into Africa: Tanzania & Zanzibar
Into Africa: Botswana
Into Africa: Zambia
Recipes
Photography
Into Africa: Namibia
Cape-Namibia Route
Read: Book club
Soduku
@RoveSouthAfrica
PUBLISHER: Elroy van Heerden-Mays elroy@mediaxpose.co.za
EDITOR: Milou Staub editor@rovesa.co.za
SUB-EDITOR: Samiena Amien sub@mediaxpose.co.za
CONTENT MANAGER: Wadoeda Adams artwork@mediaxpose.co.za
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
COVER IMAGE Lanzerac
DESIGN & LAYOUT
Shaun van Heerden-Mays Anja Bramley Tia Arendse
PROJECT MANAGER: Hester Kleynhans hester@rovesa.co.za
DIGITAL AND SOCIAL MEDIA Juhi Rampersad / Kyla van Heerden
WEB DEVELOPER Richard Van Staden
SUBSCRIPTIONS: Shihaam Gyer distribution@mediaxpose.co.za
MEDIA PARTERSHIPS: Maurisha Niewenhuys maurisha@mediaxpose.co.za
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER: Shaun van Heerden-Mays
RECEPTIONIST: Jackie Kemp
RETAIL DISTRIBUTION: On The Dot
AIRPORT DISTRIBUTION: Media Support
PICTURE CREDIT: 123rf.com
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or its agents. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, the publisher does not accept responsibility for any error or omission contained herein. Consequently, no person connected with the publication of this journal will be liable for any loss or damage sustained by any reader as a result of action following statements or opinions expressed herein. The publisher will give consideration to all material submitted, but does not take responsibility for damage or its safe return.
The enigmatic octopus is just one of the animals you’ll meet at the Two Oceans Aquarium. From the magnificent ragged-tooth sharks to the dainty Knysna seahorses, a visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium is your chance to dive into their underwater world! Buy tickets online at: www.aquarium.co.za
THE WORD LUXURY IS DEFINED AS “A CONDITION OF GREAT EASE AND COMFORT”. AMID GREAT BEAUTY, WE MIGHT ADD – ALL OF WHICH THE TEAM AT LANZERAC STRIVES TO CREATE FOR EVERY GUEST SETTING FOOT ON THE GROUNDS OF THE GRACIOUS GRANDE DAME OF THE WINELANDS.
More than 330 years old and just slightly younger than the town of Stellenbosch itself, Lanzerac has guarded the Jonkershoek Valley for centuries.
But old, it is definitely not. It has moved with the times without losing the history, and it still represents and embodies all that is fine in the Cape Winelands.
With 54 en-suite bedrooms and suites, the hotel is nestled amongst old oaks and lush gardens, offering every comfort since David Rawdon transformed the farm buildings into a luxury retreat in 1959. This makes every room different in its size and layout, inspiring a unique design for each of them.
Plush furnishings with awe-inspiring bathrooms set the scene for what will be a true break from reality. One unerringly feels like royalty in a bed bearing the same
... a touch of grandeur guaranteed to make you feel like royalty.”
title, but Lanzerac went a step further, adding extra length for a touch of true grandeur.
With various private spaces in and around Lanzerac, you would be forgiven for getting lost in time and space. But fret not, as a smiling team member is around every corner to guide you to your next adventure on a seemingly simple farm that keeps offering you more and more.
Lanzerac was first known for its wine, before the hotel greeted guests from afar and locals alike. That famous South African varietal, Pinotage, now celebrating 100 years, being bottled under its name, Lanzerac Pinotage 1959, was the first commercially released Pinotage, in 1961. But even prior to that the women who built both the historic cellars on the farm are honoured with our Mrs English Chardonnay. Guests are invited to enjoy the various wines, that are proudly produced by the team, while visiting the estate in one of the multiple eateries or in the privacy of their room.
Space, privacy, and tranquillity are what you can expect from this luxurious getaway, mere minutes from the hustle and bustle of the centre of Stellenbosch.
BY BYRON LUKAS
SPRING IS HERE, BABY! THE AIR’S LIGHTER, THE SKIES ARE SHOWING OFF, AND SOUTH AFRICANS ARE ITCHING TO GET OUT THERE — WHETHER THAT’S CRUISING THE GARDEN ROUTE, CHASING SUNSETS IN THE BUSH, OR MAKING THE MOST OF A STAYCATION IN FLUFFY SOCKS. AND GUESS WHAT? THE RIGHT GADGETS CAN TURN ANY OUTING INTO A MINI MASTERPIECE. HERE ARE FOUR THAT’LL HAVE YOU SAYING, “TAKE MY MONEY!”
Solar-Powered Portable Charger
More sun = more power. Literally. This little lifesaver slurps up sunshine and turns it into juice for your phone, camera, or GPS – no plug point in sight. It’s the hero you want on multiday hikes, sandy beach days, or when Eskom’s feeling moody. Eco-friendly, backpack-friendly, and just plain friendly.
Price: R 2 585 95
Available at www.sustainable.co.za/
K&F Electronics Organizer Pouch
Ever played “Where’s My Charger?” in a bag full of chaos? This pouch is your new bestie. It’s water-resistant, opens like a clamshell for full visibility, and has neat compartments for cables, chargers, earbuds, and memory cards. It even stands upright—perfect for hotel room desks or picnic tables where everything else is rolling away.
Price: R690
Available at www.kfconcept.co.za
Fun fact: These gadgets aren’t just pretty. They’re spring-proof, road trip-proof, and “accidentally spilled my drink”-proof, too.”
Spring is the season to just wing it, but this multitool makes you look prepared, at least. Tighten a wobbly camp chair, snip cord for a gazebo, or pop open a bottle in style. Fourteen tools in one slim design, sturdy enough to handle anything, light enough to make you forget you’re carrying it – until you need it, of course.
Price: R2 070
Available at www.awesometools.co.za
Small speaker, big vibes. This cutie pumps crisp, rich sound for up to 15 hours—whether you’re vibing at sundowners, braaiing with friends, or stuck inside because spring decided to give you a rainstorm. Bonus points for USB-C charging and being waterproof enough to survive that one friend who will knock it into the pool.
Price: R899
Available at www.soundcore.com
BY TEMO MPODI
FROM COBBLESTONE PATHS TO POOLSIDE PERFECTION, THESE FASHION MUST-HAVES WILL KEEP YOU COMFY, STYLISH, AND READY FOR ANYTHING
Comfortable sneakers
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When Nike said “Just Do It”, they weren’t talking about hobbling through your trip with aching feet. The right travel shoes aren’t just a luxury – they’re a necessity (and worth spending a little extra moola on). Choose comfort-first kicks that let you roam freely without worrying about blisters, corns, or sore soles.
Sneakers? Always a winner. They’re stylish, supportive, and ready for anything – from airport sprints to cobblestone strolls.
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Sunglasses aren’t just a fashion flex, they’re your first line of defence against harsh UV rays. A good pair protects your eyes while elevating your look. Go classic with sleek black frames that match any outfit, or make a statement with bold colours that
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Comfortable pants and a t-shirt
The last thing you want are tight kimono pants, or suit pants that take away the joy of feeling free while travelling and enjoying your activities. Leave the office wear for the office and just get comfy!
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Timepieces today do far more than tick away the hours. Smartwatches are a gamechanger for travellers – monitoring sleep, managing stress, tracking steps, and even handling calls and texts, all from your wrist. Some models come equipped with maps and solar charging, making them the ultimate travel companion.
And let’s not forget the style factor. A sleek, well-designed watch adds a touch of class and elegance to your look, effortlessly blending function with fashion. It’s not just smart – it’s sharp.
WHILE INTERNATIONAL CELEBRITIES FLOCK TO ATHENS FOR HANDMADE SANDALS, SOME OF THE WORLD'S MOST SOUGHT-AFTER ARTISANS ARE WORKING QUIETLY IN OUR OWN BACKYARD, PRODUCING PIECES THAT END UP IN THE MOST EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS WORLDWIDE – OFTEN WITHOUT THE FANFARE THEY DESERVE.
In the rolling hills of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, Ardmore Design has built something extraordinary: a working studio where over 80 professional artists create pieces that command international attention. Founded by artist Fée Halsted in 1985, what originally started as a skills development initiative has evolved into a serious artistic enterprise.
Christie’s auction house has acknowledged Ardmore artworks as “modern-day collectables.” Their designs appear on Hermès scarves and Cole & Son wallpapers sold in London’s most exclusive design shops. Queen Elizabeth II owned an Ardmore piece, and there is one in the White House collection.
Each artwork involves two or three artists working together – one might create the form, another handles the sculpting, and a third adds the intricate painting. The result is work with a distinctive aesthetic that’s unmistakably South African yet appeals to international luxury markets.
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At Potterswork, they design and create hand-painted, beautifully crafted tableware combining artistic expression with everyday functionality. A dedicated team of artisans handcraft each piece. What began in a small shop in Kalk Bay in 1986 has grown into a bustling studio in Cape Town filled with colour, creativity and community. Today it is home to 14 talented artists and 20 skilled production staff, many of whom come from nearby disadvantaged communities. Each artist is trained in-house and brings their own story and skills, working together to produce ceramics that are nothing short of world-class. This spirit of passing on knowledge is central to who they are. Over time, each painter develops their own signature style – bold and graphic, soft and organic or rich and with intricate detail – adding to the diverse creative voice that defines Potterswork.co.za.