By Prashirwin Naidu
Sometimes, I’m an absolute sucker for cars — and few get my pulse racing quite like the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. So, when the keys landed in my hand, I knew exactly what needed to happen: a road trip.
The weekend became all about the drive, good food, and even better company — my dearest Jessyca Primo. Life has its ups and downs, but sometimes, all you need is an open road. As we cruised toward Harrismith, kilometres melted away beneath the tyres, accompanied by an orchestra of snaps, crackles, and pops. The Giulia Quadrifoglio wasn’t just alive — it was furious, demanding long, straight stretches of tarmac to unleash its full Italian passion.
At first, Jessyca was impressed, but the novelty soon wore off for her. For me, though? I was smitten. This wild steed hides a Ferrari-crafted 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 — and it shows. Yes, a performance car like this can be thirsty, but the Alfa held its own, sipping around 13L/100km on our trip. Not bad for a car that makes your heart race at idle.
The interior? Those seats are pure art — snug and supportive for the driver, though perhaps less forgiving for passengers. Jessyca endured my “skiting,” as we call it, while I relished every kilometre behind the wheel. It’s up there among my dream cars, right alongside a midnight blue Porsche 911 Carrera S (992). After three hours of blissful driving, we arrived.
The Alfa had done us proud. Our stay for the night was a charming Airbnb called Grazia —cosy, neat, and filled with thoughtful touches. A deep bathtub, a tidy kitchenette, and calming greenish-blue tones throughout made it the perfect hideaway. We settled in, devoured a simple but delicious Panarottis pepperoni pizza and pesto chicken, and called it a night.
Sleep, however, proved elusive. The bed was too soft — the kind you sink into and never quite escape. Still, it was one of the nicer Airbnbs we’ve stayed at, and morning came with renewed excitement.
Our first stop: The Little Church. It’s a tiny yet beautiful chapel that can seat no more than eight people. This was my third visit, but Jessyca’s first, and watching her curiosity unfold made it all the more special. Inside, I found a small book at the front for prayers or messages — I penned a short note for her, a memory to cherish.
Breakfast followed just steps away at The Little Tea Garden. We found a lovely shaded spot beneath a tree, greeted by a few furry friends clearly interested in our food. Coffee, as always, came first — because caffeine speaks directly to the soul.
Then came the specials: roast chicken with vegetables and gravy for me, and tender, juicy lamb for Jessyca. Simple, hearty, and utterly satisfying. Before long, it was time to head home — hearts full, bellies content, and the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio purring contentedly beneath us. It wasn’t just a drive; it was an experience — a perfect blend of love, adventure, and Italian symphony on four wheels.
