Riebeek Kasteel
Discover somewhere different
Riebeek Kasteel is a small dorp with a huge heart. It’s only an hour’s drive from Cape Town so there’s no excuse for not visiting if you live in the Mother City. If you don’t, then book a night or two there, it’ll be worth it! The village is full of eccentric, interesting folk and very friendly locals.
Alternative things to do
Take a walk around Short Street (opposite the Royal Hotel) where you’ll find eateries, unique shops and a craft brewery – it’s the “one stop” shopping street in town.
There’s a myriad of quaint restaurants and coffee bars that cater to all tastes while still retaining a sense of “country” about them without detracting from delicious food.
Visit the wineries – the Swartland boys and girls are making quite a name for themselves these days – think Mullineux and Leeu, Eben Sadie and Adi Badenhorst to name but a few.
5km down the road is Riebeek West – a lot less commercial than it’s partner Riebeek Kasteel, but also offering eateries, coffee shops and interesting retail outlets.
Hedonist Hippy recommends
To eat:
Kasteelberg Country Inn & Bistro – the food, often with a French flair, is excellent and has a changing menu. In summer The Secret Garden comes into its own – outside pub and braai area offering great burgers and steaks and where new best friends are made.
Mama Cucina – fabulous Italian inspired food and mouth-watering pizzas in a lovely restaurant. This restaurant is hugely popular, so it’s always advisable to book.
Red Tin Roof – pub and bistro with great vibe and decor – large garden out back to relax and enjoy your meal in the summer.
La Parilla – lovely restaurant overlooking vineyards and serving excellent food. There is always something out of the ordinary as a daily special.
To stay:
Boudoir Santa Cecilia – self catering in the centre of Kasteel and uniquely decorated
Katarinas – charming self-catering rooms with ensuite bathrooms and pretty balconies in the centre of town.
De Stal – eclectic and beautifully styled self catering cottage in Riebeek West – also pet friendly. There is a lovely double room, attached to the main house, with ensuite bathroom available for extra accommodation.
Rooms in Riebeek – take the hassle out finding the best accommodation and use this great new online booking service.
To visit:
The Wine Kollective – here you will find the Swartland wines all under one roof at cellar prices. Tastings over weekends by super knowledgeable owner and staff and deliveries arranged so you don’t have to worry about carrying it all home!
Ancient Spirit – locally made designer clothes in a beautiful building. Spend a while trying on these gorgeous garments and treat yourself to a new outfit.
Still Pure – handmade soaps, essential oils, creams, bath bombs and lots, lots more from locally grown and sourced plants.
Crisp – veggie and deli heaven – the best fresh produce and free range meat products for miles!
RK Contemporary – a modern art gallery, as the name would suggest, selling work by local artists.
Aitsa (27 on Main) – a fabulous emporium which stocks everything from organic oil to shopping baskets to toys – and a lot more in between.
And a visit wouldn’t be complete without a drink on the stoep of the grand old dame The Royal Hotel where you can chill out and watch the world go by. Beautiful outside bar area and garden at the back.
A trending destination
Riebeek Kasteel has become increasingly popular over the years and is a lovely, lively village with lots to do. Diarise (and book) the popular Olive Festival in May and Solo Studios in August.
More information can be found for this funky, offbeat place at www.riebeekvalley.info.
Where to find it
