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Still Going Round
the Bend—In
Style
by David Rogers - Getaway Magazine
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Felix Unite River Adventures
has recently refurbished Round the Bend, its flagship camp on the Breede
River. Its creature comforts now include an expansive, thatched
dining/balcony area, 30 cozy A-frame chalets with duvets and hurricane
lamps, flush toilets and communal reed-walled showers with great river
views.
Round the Bend is
situated on a meandering swift-flowing stretch of the Breede
about 20 km downstream from Swellendam. Dozens of two-person,
inflatable "crocodile" canoes line the banks. There
are extremely stable, virtually indestructible and great fun,
even for beginners.
Everyone is required
to sign an indemnity form before going down the river, but you
can be assured that the guides are extremely safety conscious.
Life-jackets and helmets are compulsory, and safety boats
accompany every group in case anyone gets into difficulty.
You can run the Breede
throughout the year but the water is fullest—and most
thrilling—in winter after rain in the upper reaches
around Ceres.
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After the day's adventure
(abseiling and cliff-jumping are also on offer), guests chat about their
experiences round the fire and then settle down to hearty grub prepared
by the guides. Getaway was delighted to discover that "5-star bush
cuisine" included such wholesome fare as roast lamb, crispy
potatoes and hot, home-made bread.
Round the Bend is only
two-and-a-half hours from Cape Town and is ideal for teambuilding
conferences and for stressed-out city folk looking for a place to unwind
for the weekend. The last stretch is along dirt roads which can be quite
tricky to negotiate, so it's safest to leave early and arrive during
daylight.
The weekend cost includes
accommodation, meals, bedding and activities, and the guides' fees. But
such is their enthusiasm and expertise, you may want to take extra for a
tip. A fully licensed cash bar is available, but you can bring your own
drinks.
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