by Ed Yourdon

A Weekend Away at La Provence in Magaliesburg, South Africa

Sculptor Charles Gotthard and wife Marguerite form the creative team behind the three stunning venues; La Provence, Out of Africa, and Goblins Cove, all situated in the Magaliesburg region. My partner and I were invited to experience the peace and tranquility on offer at the La Provence hotel and to ease away the stresses of city life.

The La Provence hotel is located just outside the town of Magaliesburg just off the R24 highway only an hour’s drive from Johannesburg. La Provence is modelled on the serene French southern region Provence and comprises of seven beautiful individually styled suites and an exquisitely modelled indoor street café.

Upon arriving, we were greeted by three very eager and friendly dogs who seemed to be almost offering to take our luggage inside themselves. Immediately we could feel the peace and tranquility La Provence had to offer, the sounds of cars and city noise were replaced by the calming tones of the slow paced Berg River situated just behind the main house.

Our friendly and very accommodating host Marguerite led us to our room through the passageway that had been modelled into a stunning French street café upon which the rooms open. The atmosphere in the street is unique, look up and you will see a high grass roofed ceiling, around you the French signs and paintings adorning the sides, and dotted around are the Provence styled cast-iron tables and chairs for dining. The detail recreated here is very fine and is seen immediately on entering with the cobbled stone street leading up to a gorgeous stone fountain.

The attention to detail is carried on into each suite with our large bed and fine French linen and fabric designs, plenty of room for petite tables and French sofas, regal large framed mirrors and floor to ceiling windows. Don’t be put off by cold weather, each room comes with its own little sherry and glasses, for an immediate warm up, and if that’s not enough, the in-room iron coal fire can be lit for you. Ours was lit and waiting for us as we returned from dinner that night which provided all the warmth you could wish for on a cold night.

Our bathroom was exquisitely styled and we took full advantage of the lovely high-ended iron antiquarian baths with never-ending hot soaks. It was clear to see the love that had gone into creating these rooms uniqueness. It was not hard to imagine this large atmospheric building initially being Charles Gotthard’s studio where some of his magnificent creations were born.

Just outside the front door sits a vintage “chef truck” in bright colours, converted into a pub, amply stocked to supply sherries, ports and even hot chocolates. We decided to walk around and immediately felt a sense of freedom as we did not feel confined in any way by fences or roads, we ventured down to the river accompanied by the dogs to sit and peacefully watch the water flowing while day dreaming.

La Provence and Out of Africa have also taken the ecologically happier and greener route of harnessing the Berg River so it provides water for the site. Hidden away near the river also lies the Forest Spa where you can indulge in a number of various massages and treatments to compliment your stay.

After our dinner at Goblins Cove, we enjoyed one of the most peaceful, cozy and warm nights of sleep we’d ever had and the next morning we were treated to a breakfast picnic by the river. It’s a very simple and delightful idea taking advantage of the warm weather and idyllic river setting. After picking up our basket and finding a quiet spot on a stone table by the river we unpacked our tasty treats which included eggs, warm breads, muffins, flans and fresh juices. This was at the very least a healthy and delicious breakfast. We wished every breakfast could be this grand, the setting will certainly prove to be inspirational for those who wish to discover themselves again away from the city.

Marguerite Gotthard is one half on the extraordinary couple that built and manages the three venues. Speaking to Marguerite reveals her passion to provide a magical experience and a retreat into the imagination for visitors whilst providing a first class service. However Marguerite also revealed that work would soon start on a “Shire’s Village” near the Goblins Cove venue, which will boast of a few dwellings similar to those found in the Shires, Lord of The Rings films. The new “village” will not only harness the local river for its water but will also be a “green village” with eco-friendly technology in use.

After a beautiful weekend we came back to Johannesburg refreshed, our minds and imaginations awoken and breathing new ideas into our lives. We are very thankful to Marguerite and Charles Gotthard for allowing us a little escape from reality and giving us such a serene fantasy filled weekend. From French recreations to Goblins and Fairies, we highly recommend a stay here. You won’t be disappointed.

This is one for the pampered pooch in your life. Dream Park Hotel in Taiwan is the ultimate VIP destination for pets. From an indoor pool to a beauty parlor they have it all. ______________________________________________________________ Why don’t you come and join Uzoo on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date with our videos and other animal stories!! Like Uzoo on Facebook: ow.ly Follow Uzoo on Twitter: ow.ly Follow Uzoo on Tumblr: ow.ly Playlist: Dog videos: ow.ly Animals living the good ol’ life: ow.ly Most recent U-zoo videos. ow.ly

Dog Parks and Your Dog

Dog parks have a mixed reputation. Some people feel that dog parks are a wonderful place for dogs and owners to go and socialize with others. Dogs can sniff and play in a safe, fenced in environment and become well socialized with other dogs. Owners can give their dog exercise and friends, while also meeting and interacting with other dog owners. Off leash dog parks can provide the only true freedom that apartment dogs have, and can give a dog that lives in a house without other canine companions the opportunity to socialize with his or her own kind.

However, there are also stories of dogs being attacked or hurt at dog parks. There are numerous incidents of dog fights and even a few horrific news stories about dogs being killed at dog parks by other dogs. For this reason, many citizens speak out against dog parks, or alternatively insist on having segregated small dog areas or banning certain breeds of dogs from parks.

Taking a dog to a dog park can be a wonderful activity, but there are certain guidelines you should follow before taking your pet to the park, in order to make sure that you are and your dog are not a hindrance to other responsible dog owners who wish to enjoy the park as well.

Only balanced, non-aggressive dogs should be let off leash at dog parks.

You should be reasonably aware of your dog’s temperament and his or her propensity towards fighting with other animals. Socialization in a structured form, such as in a training class, while on leash, or with other dogs that you know, is important to ensuring that your dog behaves properly in a group. Until you know that your dog is not likely to attack another dog over a territorial dispute, and that your dog will play well with others, you should not allow your dog off leash at a dog park.

A dog park should also not be a dog’s only source of exercise.

A dog who goes to a dog park should already be in a healthy and balanced state, not overwhelmed with energy and excitement. Walking your dog or exercising your dog before a visit to a dog park can be very beneficial in ensuring that your dog plays well with others and is not too high energy or the rest of the dogs at the park. A dog that is aggressive about wanting to play can inspire growls from older, calmer, or snippier dogs if that dog comes on too strongly.

You should also be very careful about introducing food or treats at a dog park. Dogs who are not generally aggressive may become very territorial or dominant when there is food or a treat at stake. Even if your dog does not tend to be aggressive when a treat is offered, other dogs might be provoked by food, and you want to minimize the chances of a fight or dispute taking place. It is these types of disputes that can pose risks of deaths at dog parks, and all pet owners want to put off the day when they will have to bury their pets and buy pet urns or pet gravestones, for as long as possible.

Finally, you want to ensure that you clean up after your dog if your dog uses the bathroom at the park, and that your dog will come to you when called. You do not want to spoil the park for others, so it is essential that any messes your dog makes me cleaned up promptly. Furthermore, you don’t wish to be chasing your dog around the park endlessly if your dog will not come when called.

Watching dogs interact and play with others is one of the many joys of being a pet owner. Years from now, when you are looking back on your dog’s life, writing pet memorials or thinking back on the good times, you will be able to remember giving your dog this chance to play and frolic with other pups. However, you want to make sure you do so safely and responsibly.

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