We decided to take a trip up the coast to Keurboomstrand on the other side of Plettenberg Bay, dropping by a few of our favourite places along the way.

First stop was Timber Lake Farm Village (where we discovered the large craft beer menu at Zucchini's), then on to Tottie's Farm Kitchen in Rheenendal for a delicious lunch in their wonderful garden (definitely worth a  visit) as a bit of a side-trip on the way to Knysna.

First stop in Knysna was to see Cheryl who has her refinished furniture at Frame by Frame on Gordon Street now (she moved from her original location next to Firefly Eating House last year) and then a quick pop into the Knysna Art Gallery which is housed in the old Knysna gaol.  We picked up a couple of ceramic birds (2 for R100) and stuck them in an old bird cage we brought back from Jakarta a couple of few years ago.  Works pretty well, I think!

From there it was onward to the Leisure Isle Art Gallery (which is co-housed with Leisure Isle Antiques) there before carrying on our way.

On the N2 about 7-8 km's before Plett, there's a fantastic little place called, "The Heath", where you'll find a cozy cafe, and a really great bespoke wood furniture & design shop called ilovani (together with Amoeba Concepts), where you'll find all sorts of cool and original items.  Definitely worth a stop if you're into original, natural design.

Then it was past Plett to the Old Nick Village where we ordered a couple of good coffees from the friendly (American) barrista.  Had a bit of a wander around there looking in the shops before moving down the road to our destination:  Keurboomstrand.

We were last there several years ago, but after hearing good things about Ristorante Enrico (check out the reviews on TripAdvisor), we decided it was worth a visit - besides, we're always up for a road trip.

We had an antipasto platter and a couple of craft beers (can you sense a theme?), as we were saving ourselves for the big event later in the evening (the antipasto was good and the service very friendly, but I have to admit my bias: La Locanda in George is still my favourite!).  Meanwhile, there were a few dozen dolphins swimming by, putting on a real show - the viewing was great right from our table (sorry, no pics - not really worth the attempt with a mobile phone).  It's definitely worth a trip to Enrico's if you're into a bit of a drive.

The big event?  Dinner at Kilzer's Kitchen back in Knysna for their weekly "Cook & Look" which are held Wednesday evenings (see reviews on TripAdvisor).  It was fun and something a bit different.  They aren't licenced, so if you go, bring your own bottle - or bottles.  Here are a few photos:

I was turned on to this gem by a fellow Islander - if you are looking for a day trip, this really is a must-do.  Drive out towards Knysna and take the Rheenendal exit and keep driving for about 12 kms.  You'll see the old General Store & Petrol Station on your left - Totties is around the back.

You'll find yourself in a wonderful garden oasis with simply amazing food - in the middle of nowhere.  We had the stuffed brinjal and the pesto chicken wrap and were blown away by the presentation.

If the photos above don't inspire you, visit them on Facebook or see their webpage for more photos and their menu.  We went for lunch mid-week, so no reservation was required, but I understand that for Sunday Lunch bookings are absolutely essential (not surprising!).

If you're not quite sure where they are, there's a handy map on the new Rheenendal Ramble website which highlights a number of other things to do in the area (it's pretty well-known for mountain bike territory, of course).

Finally, if you are headed out that way be careful if you return via the old 7 Passes Road via George, as there are large logging trucks using it during the week - if you're not expecting it, it can be quite exciting when you're confronted by a fully laden truck headed directly towards you at high-speed as you round a corner. Those drivers must know every twist and hairpin turn like the back of their hands.  The full 7 Passes drive from George through to Knysna offers great scenery along a windy gravel road - it's well worth it if you're a road trip fan.