C is for Cockscomb and a Chevy

Decisions, decisions, decisions. So many topics for C this week, but I decided to settle on the Cockscomb Mountain and a Chevrolet. As it happens they were both photographed on the same day and I had to drive past the Cockscomb to get to the Chev.

Panoramic view of the Cockscomb Mountain, seen from the Elands River Valley


It all started with a spontaneous suggestion by Suzi-k on Sunday morning, for us to drive through the Elands River Valley to Patensie. After plotting the 127 kilometre journey on my GPS, I estimated that it would take us about 2 hours to complete the journey. It ended up being a 5 hour trip. There was just too much to see and photograph. In fact I have enough material from the trip to take me through to G.

Close up of the Cockscomb Mountain from near (relatively speaking) its base


The Cockscomb Mountain is a very prominent feature that is visible from many miles around, but to get there is quite another story. At 1,759 m above sea level it is one of the highest mountain peaks in the Eastern Cape. Apparently it was known to some of the earlier indigenous tribes as "T'numkwa" (Mountain of the clouds).

Saying farewell to the Cockscomb Mountain from the Winterhoek Mountains near Patensie. Some of the Leucospermums (Pin Cushion Protea) like the one in the foregroundwere are still flowering.


When we arrived at Patensie it was 3 pm and we both felt like lunch was long overdue. Fat chance of that I said. I had been in the area some years before and did not recall seeing any restaurants. “Well, let’s try that one”, suggested Suzi-k pointing to the sign on the side of the road, which said the Padlangs Country Restaurant and Shop (Padlangs = Roadside) was 2 kilometres up the road.

A rare site in South Africa. Bicycles don't hang about for too long, before they go "walk about".


I dubiously agreed and we were pleasantly surprised to find the most delightful restaurant and shop, where I was able to select an excellent heart friendly lunch. There was the added bonus of finding this old Chevrolet truck, which I thought was very photogenic.



I have no idea of its vintage, but would guess late 40’s early 50’s. Not exactly built for comfort, but I guess it served its purpose..



Anyone for pumpkins. From their condition I do not think there have been many buyers this season.



For more insights and pictures on our trip down the Elands River Valley you can visit Suzi-k.