You might not remember it, but your birthday (or adoption day) was a big event for two: specifically the person you made a mother in that instant! Ever since she’s gone on to play a great many roles in your life – teaching, nurturing, guiding, disciplining, snuggling, laughing and loving.
To reveal the depths of your love this year, how about considering a different type of gesture beyond a gift, but rather an experience, either a sight-seeing tour, a spa treatment, a walk in the provincial garden or lunch at an idyllic restaurant.
The best Mother’s Day ideas give moms (and mother figures) what they want most of all: to spend time with you.
Here are a few ideas to help you with your choice:
1. Picnic and explore Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Pack a picnic and head to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden – one of the greatest gardens worldwide that includes a large conservatory and the famous “Boomslang” walk. Few gardens can match the sheer grandeur of its setting against the eastern slopes of Cape Town’s Table Mountain. Why not spend the afternoon swapping a few stories as you meander through nature’s wonders.
- Where: Fynkbos picnics | Gate 2, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, Rhodes Drive, Newlands
2. Have a pamper session and delicious lunch at Steenberg Farm
There’s no better spoil for Mom this year than a visit to Steenberg Farm. Treat her to a pamper session at its luxury spa or a delectable lunch at Tryn restaurant. The vines, oak trees and purple salvia are glowing in the golden light of autumn – the perfect picturesque setting for a Mother’s Day lunch. Chef Kerry Kilpin has also created a special lunch menu for the whole family. Select 3 courses, with an amuse-bouche to start and chocolate truffles to end for R595 per person, or indulge with 5 courses for R750 per person.
- Where: Steenberg Estate, Noordhoek
3.Explore Dalebrook’s tidal pools
Why not take a refreshing dip at one of the best tidal pools in Cape Town? Dalebrook, which is nestled between Kalk Bay and St James, is known as one of the most beautiful pools in False Bay. Treat your mother figure to a relaxing beach day (weather permitting) with the family, sit on the large boulders reminiscing, explore the marine life in the rock pools and grab a coffee and pastry from the Dalebrook Cafe across the road.
- Where: Main Road, Dalebrook, Kalk Bay
4.Dive into the art world with the Norval Foundation
Spoil mom with an experience of the arts at the Norval Foundation situated in the Constantia Winelands. Together you will be able to appreciate the art forms and revel in the nine gallery spaces and wetland sculpture garden that is on offer. The Sculpture Garden, outdoor amphitheatre, purpose-built exhibition spaces and library are all situated in such a unique setting which offers visitors a multisensory experience.
- Where: 4 Steenberg Rd, Tokai
5.Cool down at Silvermine’s crystal pools
Take a day trip out with the family and spend some time walking and chatting along the Silvermine Nature Reserve. The reserve is popular for its beautiful trails and picnic spots next to the dam. Breathe in the fresh air together, enjoy the sound of nature and spend some time enjoying a therapeutic river walk around the reserve.
- Where: Steenras River Gorge
When we celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May, it’s thanks to U.S. president Woodrow Wilson, who signed a measure in 1914 officially establishing the holiday. But as great as gifts are, nothing beats spending time together. Ann Reeves Jarvis, known as Mother Jarvis, was a mother and Sunday school teacher in rural West Virginia—until the Civil War broke out in 1861. She was adamant that it be dedicated to just one mother. Its purpose, she said, is “to honour the best mother who ever lived: yours.”
No matter how you choose to honour the special moms, grandmas, and like-a-mom ladies in your life, know that it’s sure to be deeply appreciated.
Also read:
Treat your ‘mama’ this Mother’s Day with this delicious restaurant specials
Picture: @justbeefreee