Driving on a gravel road does something to you. It makes me friendlier. I do not know why, but as soon as I turn onto a gravel road every car I pass waves at me. I do the same. I wave at every person. Those in cars. Those that walk. Those on bicycles driving up crazy mountain passes. Those on donkey cars. I wave. I love it. It makes me smile. The greens look greener. The sky more blue. The mountains more stunning.

Why do I find myself on a gravel road again? Only a couple of days after my car has been washed? Beer of course! I am on my way to Nieuw Brew – they used to be called Cederbrew and I was almost extremely happy because for a moment I thought I might be able to visit 2 breweries in 1 go. It was not to be as the brewery was renamed. It is owned by the Niewoudt family and does make more sense. I didn’t mind, because as they put it: Scientifically created craft beer! How can that go wrong?

To get there I first need to conquer a couple of mountain passes and 50km of gravel road. I do not mind as the views in the Cederberg is always stunning and full of surprises. Like this rock formation called Lot’s wife. Can it be?

As I descent down to the Kromriver I catch my first view of Nieuw Brew. There is camping and chalet accommodation next to the river. It does look spectacular. I go to the restaurant to get something to eat and taste the scientifically crafted offerings.

Jan Pampoen – Spicy Pumpkin Ale. 7/10: Very smooth and easy to drink. I would have liked it a bit more spicy.

Catfish Ale – English Pale Ale. 7/10: Mild flavour. Very nice to drink.

Chubbyhead Stout – Dry Stout. 6/10: Smokey and lovely. Not as bold as most stouts.

Galaxias Blond – Ale. 7/10: Nice tasting and very easy to drink.

Sandfish Weiss – Weiss. 6/10: Very floral on the nose.

I enjoyed a lovely lamb schnitzel and would recommend it to anyone visiting. I did have one problem about visiting Nieuw Brew and that was not staying a night. With the beautiful scenery and many things to do, I will have to go back. I wave at the Kromriver as I slowly creep up the mountain with a friendly smile.