It turns out, the most amazing couple runs Eerstegeluk, and a pity we only really met and spoke on the day that we left. They are Pieter and Linda Gericke, and they have lived here almost all of their married life. Linda used to be an airhostess, until she married Pieter, and they seemed to have lived here happily with their 3 sons of whom the eldest is almost 40. If you want privacy, simplicity, a fabulous fishing spot and beautiful, romantic evenings, this is the place to visit.I was sad to leave, as they were a wonderful inspiration, and very easy to get along with. We headed out a bit late, and had our first weir to jump. This one was fairly high, and once we considered all the warnings about drowning, we transported our kayaks safely to the other side, and tried like hell to break free from the hyacinths and get back in the main stream. The rest of the way, we had continuous rapids, but nothing serious. The only trick was not to get stuck on the rocks, of which there are many.
We passed a couple on holiday, and chatted as we drifted forward. There were many islands, an abundance of wildlife and rapid moving water. It was lovely. It was clear that we were outside of the dome area now, because the mountains became smaller, till they virtually disappeared and made way for dense bushes on the river banks. It was late afternoon when we saw what looked like a lodge on the right-hand side of the river. The Elgro Riverlodge was a very welcome stop, 'cause I was tired and thirsty. Gerhardus welcomes us, and immediately offered us something to drink. Later on we met Riaan, also a manager and some of the guests, Hennie and Marc, who were delightful company. Seems Hennie is a regular here at the Elgro, which is a fishing hot spot, and a stunning getaway from city life. Not too far from Johannesburg either. 
We slept in a beautifully decorated, comfortable room, of which the bed was sent straight from heaven. Lucky me! A hot shower remedied all other ailments, and I barely ate dinner before I fell asleep.
