Just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town, the Riebeek-Kasteel valley, known for its olive groves, vineyards, and artistic community, offers magical experiences for the whole family, as well as a chance to get to know the people of the “dorpie” and gain a glimpse into the heritage of this special town and its vibrant culture.
One of the town’s best kept secrets is its stylish retail experiences, and there is even an Easter Hat Hunt on the Village Square on Easter Saturday.
Make a weekend of it or drive through for the day just to soak up the vibe and local culture. The rustic charm and warm hospitality of this town and its people are sure to leave an imprint on your heart.
Here are five reasons why you should spend your Easter Weekend mini-break in this charming village.
A feast for the senses
April in Riebeek-Kasteel is a feast for the senses. With autumn in full swing, the vineyards of the surrounding Swartland turn golden, and the days are warm; while the evenings are cooler and the soft autumn light creates a spectacular backdrop set against the dramatic Kasteelberg mountain range.
The village square
Pop in at the vibrant Village Market on the Square on Saturday 4 April, to support local crafters and vendors who will be offering everything from delicious Dutch stroopkoeken, bespoke handmade bags for all occasions, and stylish fashion – to fresh herbs and steaming hot coffee. Opening time is 09:00 and the market ends at 13:00.
Join the Upmarket on the Square Easter Hat Hunt from 09:00 onwards, where you can bring, buy or make your most fabulous, funny or funky Easter hat and win a prize. Prize-giving is at 12:00.
Art and culture
For a taste of local art and culture, visit the RK Contemporary (formerly Gallery Riebeek Kasteel), located at 32 Main Street, featuring curated contemporary works, sculpture, and ceramics from local and national artists.
The valley is a hub for artists, featuring spots like Fani Ceramics and Gallery 7, while prominent artists like Solly Smook, Emma Willemse, André François van Vuuren, Riaan van Zyl, Jenny Parsons and Cathy Layzell call it home.
Dining with views
Enjoy cocktails and valley views from the historic stoep of The Royal Hotel, or anything from a leisurely Mediterranean-inspired meal to a country-style breakfast at the various eateries in town.
Best kept secret
The village is home to stylish shopping experiences for men and women. This includes shops where dapper chaps can find a range of linen shirts, striking T-shirts and golfstyle-shirts, as well as anything from chinos to shoes and books – and even a bespoke ladies boutique where the gals can pop in for high-quality new and sourced garments and quirky hats and handbags.
More about Riebeek-Kasteel
Located in the Swartland region, Riebeek-Kasteel is an easy 75km drive along the N7 from Cape Town in the heart of the Swartland Region. It is one of South Africa’s oldest towns, offering a peaceful escape with a Mediterranean-style climate, making it ideal for a relaxing yet invigorating weekend getaway.
It is believed to be one of the oldest villages in South Africa and indeed one could easily mistake the town and its accompanying valley for one set in the midst of the Tuscan hills of Italy, bathed as it invariably is in sunshine, particularly as it is almost equally as famous for its olives and Shiraz red wines.
Stroll along Main Street and Short Street to find art galleries, boutique shops, and charming, historic Cape Dutch buildings. Visit The Gallery or the Blacksmith Yard in neighbouring Riebeek West, where locals will regale you with stories about the fertile valley and its fascinating history.
- For more info contact Becky at 082 388 1539 or becky@cultivatecoms.co.za.
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