As you embark on a coastal journey heading from Gordon's Bay towards Hermanus , trust me, the magnificent views and fynbos are only part of the exquisite beauty and wonder you can experience as you venture slightly beyond Cape Town.

Tucked away in the quaint village of Pringle Bay in the Overberg area of the Western Cape is a wondrous arty surprise: Child of Afrika contemporary art gallery.

A native of Holland, co-owner Andre Jacobs was the owner of a restaurant in Betty's Bay when his idea for this gallery developed. He was associated with artist Piet Retief at the time who supplied paintings to his eatery, and so the consideration for a space dedicated to his and other artists' work was born.

Jacobs soon put the restaurant business behind him and ventured out to Pringle Bay to pursue his art inspired ambition. The ambience, community spirit, memorable guesthouses and good restaurants in of this welcoming village appealed to him and so the life of Child of Afrika found its feet.

The picturesque village is very rousing as subject matter for the artists of the area, being in the heart of a UNESCO World Nature Reserve. Renowned for its indigenous fynbos flora, there are more plant species per square metre than anywhere else on the planet.

Bronze sculptures from Louis Chanu add a touch of attitude as you wander through this intimate and cleverly structured space, whilst plush couches allow you to relax and contemplate from a distance. Adding to this haven-like atmosphere is the coffee bar which pays homage to Jacobs catering skills.

And don't hesitate to bring the kids along, they'll be enthralled by a section dedicated to younger ones: Claudia's gallery. Claudia has only been in the art field for a few years, and has recently started to develop a true talent. Specialising in water colours, and powder paints, Claudia is able to add her own unique style with great effect.

So come and rejuvenate as you journey along the breathtaking coast and relish the various delights offered by Child of Afrika - a gem that will sparkle in your memory everlastingly.

Check out more local art in the Western Cape:
Vineyard art in Stellenbosch
Culture and art at the South African National Gallery
Irma Stern Museum & Art Gallery

Molo Says: "Find more things to do in Cape Town and Hermanus during the day as well as at night in our Things to do sections. We feature a huge variety including restaurants, live music, romantic date ideas, fun at the sea, etc.

2007 Whale Festival Hermanus
Whale Festival Hermanus 2007, the Total Whale Half Marathon in Hermanus, the Whale Festival Classic Golf Tournament at Arabella and Hermanus Golf Courses and the
Boule Tournament at the Marine Hotel in Hermanus.