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, and unique shops – 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 or ambience.
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:
Au Bouchon Rouge – run by a charming French man and describing itself as “a touch of Paris in the countryside” this is a venue well worth visiting. Great food and ambience and a great place for people watching too! Situated alongside The Royal Hotel.
Aardvark Eats – offers interesting, innovative cuisine in lovely surroundings.
La Parilla – lovely restaurant overlooking vineyards and serving excellent food. There is always something out of the ordinary as a daily special.
The Co-op – quirky eatery at the top of Short Street with innovative, exciting dishes to entice you. Also sells wine to the public and offers tastings.
To stay:

The Royal Hotel is an institution in the Riebeek Valley and a fabulous place to base your stay around. It’s a beautiful old hotel in the heart of the village offering up market accommodation.
There are also plenty of air bnb options or alternatively contact the Riebeek Valley Tourist office for recommendations.
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.
RK Contemporary – a modern art gallery, as the name would suggest, selling work by local artists.
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.

The Riebeek Valley Garden Centre is a MUST to visit housed in the most exquisite building at the entrance to Riebeek West. Exotic plants for sale and a lovely restaurant, Krematart as well as a gift shop.
A trending destination
Riebeek Kasteel has become increasingly popular over the years and is a lovely, lively village with lots to do, places to eat at and shops to indulge your senses.
More information can be found for this funky, offbeat place at Riebeek Valley Tourism office.