8 Things You Must Experience in the Robertson Wine Valley

Did you know that, just a short hour and a half drive away from Cape Town, there is a stunning valley filled with vineyards, olive farms, fruit orchards, and dairy farms? This breathtaking landscape is where some of the finest wines, brandies, tapenades, jams, and cheeses are made. And let me tell you, that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to reasons to visit this incredible place. So why not take a day or two, or maybe even a few, to explore the natural beauty that’s right on your doorstep?

There’s an abundance of things to see and do in the Robertson Wine Valley, but I’ve handpicked eight of my personal favorites:

1. Indulge in Cheese, Wine, and Picnics at Montagne Deli, Bonnievale

Hey there! Have you ever been to a farm at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains? It’s a pretty cool place along the R60 between Ashton and Swellendam. You can stop by this charming deli and treat yourself to some amazing cheese from La Mont. They’ve got a whole range of cheeses like Danish Feta, Pecorino, Halloumi, Gruyere, Montaan, Camembert, Brie, Blue Rock, Cheddar, and Parmesan. Trust me, it’s a cheese lover’s paradise!

While you’re there, make sure to grab some cheese to take home. You won’t be able to resist trying out their delicious cheese recipes. If you’re feeling hungry, they also serve mouthwatering pizzas, burgers, and wraps. Yum!

If you’re up for some adventure, the farm offers mountain biking and hiking trails. You can even have a relaxing picnic by a stunning waterfall. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature.

For more information, you can reach them at 023-615-1929 or drop them an email at [email protected]. If you want to check out their website, just visit www.montagnedeli.co.za.

2. Create your own special wine at Excelsior Wine Estate in Robertson

If you’re looking for an unforgettable wine experience, Excelsior is the place to be. They export their wines to more than 20 countries, and you can enjoy a wine tasting for just R50. But it doesn’t stop there. You also have the opportunity to blend your own wine and have a blast doing it. An expert is there to guide you as you choose the perfect blend. After filling up the bottle, you even get to cork it and create a personalized label. It’s a unique and interactive activity that guarantees a fun time.

But that’s not all. The tasting room at Excelsior is situated right on a deck overlooking a beautiful dam. The view is breathtaking and adds to the overall ambiance. It’s the perfect place to spend a day, especially for a birthday party.

Excelsior also offers Wine Walks, where a knowledgeable guide takes you on a leisurely stroll through the vineyards, orchards, and the surrounding fields. It’s a delightful way to explore the natural beauty of the region while learning about the winemaking process.

If you’re looking to make your visit even more special, you can book a suite in the farmhouse and extend your stay for the weekend. You’ll have the chance to relax, blend your own wine, go for walks, and indulge in delicious meals. Whether you choose to dine in the elegant dining room or out on the deck, you’re in for a treat.

To get in touch with Excelsior, you can give them a call at 023-615-1980 or send an email to [email protected] If you want to learn more, you can visit their website at www.excelsior.co.za.

3. Pair chocolate and wine at Rosendal Winery & Wellness Retreat, Robertson

Join me for a delightful day at a luxury wine farm that has been around since 1805. Treat yourself to a glass of wine and indulge in squares of Lindt chocolate as we soak up the serene atmosphere. This place is a true oasis with its stunning Cape Dutch style architecture, vast lawns, and a breathtaking rim flow pool. It’s the ultimate destination for unwinding after a long, hectic week.

When hunger strikes, we can head to the farm’s restaurant that offers delicious lunches and dinners. From there, we can enjoy a mesmerizing view of the picturesque vineyards, adding to the overall experience.

If you’re looking to extend our little getaway, you have the option to book a stay at their elegant guesthouse. Not only will you be treated to luxurious accommodation, but you can also indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment. They offer fantastic package deals that include accommodation, meals, and spa treatments, making it a truly immersive and relaxing experience.

If you’re interested in joining me on this enchanting journey, feel free to contact them at Tel 023-626-1570 or drop them an email at [email protected] You can also visit their website at www.rosendalwinery.co.za for more information.

4. Let’s take a break at Bodega @ Rooiberg, Robertson

Next time I travel back to Cape Town from Robertson, I always keep an eye out for a sign on the road. It’s hard to miss because it says “I will stop at Rooiberg, I will stop at Rooiberg,” repeating over and over again. When I see this sign, I know it’s time to take a break and visit this charming little restaurant and deli. As soon as I step inside, the enticing smell of roasted coffee and freshly baked bread greets me, making my mouth water.

If you’re looking for a delicious meal, I highly recommend trying their chicken pie. It’s absolutely scrumptious! After satisfying my hunger, I like to indulge in a wine-tasting experience and explore their farmstall. There are so many tasty treats to choose from, like their sweet potato loaf or their cheesy marmite scones. I can never resist taking some home for a cozy tea time treat.

If you’re interested in visiting Rooiberg, you can give them a call at 023-626-1243 or send them an email at [email protected] to find out more. You can also visit their website at www.rooiberg.co.za.

5. Take a Fascinating Brandy Tour at Klipdrift Distillery in Robertson

Hey there! Did you ever wonder why there’s a clock on every bottle of Klipdrift? Well, back in 1938, at exactly two minutes past eight, JP Marais distilled his very first brandy. And guess what? More than 70 years later, Klipdrift brandies are still made just like he used to make them. Pretty cool, right?

Now, here’s the exciting part. You can visit the Klipdrift distillery and see it all for yourself. Take a tour, learn some interesting stuff, and best of all, get to taste their amazing brandy. And of course, they have a bar where you can enjoy a drink and a restaurant that serves delicious homemade meals with a Klipdrift twist. Yum!

But wait, there’s more. At the distillery, you can also grab a handy brochure with some awesome marinade recipes and braai sauces using Klippies. Imagine impressing your friends at the next braai with those mouthwatering flavors!

And if that’s not enough, they even have a gift shop. You can buy unique gifts for your brandy-loving buddies (and maybe even something for yourself). Trust me, they won’t be disappointed.

So, what are you waiting for? Give them a call at 023-626-3027 or shoot them an email at [email protected] to plan your visit. You can also check out their website at www.klipdrift.co.za for more info. It’s time to discover the magic behind Klipdrift!

6. Support local and indulge in some delicious treats at Rhebokskraal Farm Stall in McGregor

I can’t help but mention this incredible farmstall that you absolutely must visit. It’s easy to spot with its charming green roof and eye-catching painted wagon stationed outside. The van der Colff family has a strong belief in supporting local farmers, which means you’ll be treated to a delightful selection of homemade jams, chutneys, and pickles made with fresh produce from the surrounding valley. They really know their olives, and you’ll get the chance to sample some of the delicious offerings from Rhebokskraal Estate.

If you’re in the mood for a leisurely meal, the restaurant side of the farmstall has you covered from morning till late afternoon. From a hearty country-style breakfast to a relaxed lunch or an indulgent afternoon tea, they have it all. I haven’t had the chance to try it yet, but I heard that their Carnivore Burger is a mouthful! You can even enjoy your meal in their cozy tea garden, soaking up the warm sunshine while the kids have fun playing. Plus, they’re dog-friendly too!

Just keep in mind that it’s best to make a reservation in advance if you can. You can reach them at 023-625-1787 or email [email protected] If you want to learn more about the farmstall, you can visit their website at www.rhebokskraalolives.co.za.

7. Indulge in a cozy dining experience at Karoux Restaurant in McGregor

When you find yourself in McGregor, you absolutely have to make time for a dinner date at Karoux Restaurant. As soon as you step inside this warm and cozy eatery, you’ll be met with wide smiles from Kurt and André Middleton-Le Roux, who will guide you to your table. The menu is written on a chalkboard and changes every day, but don’t worry – Kurt and André will enthusiastically walk you through all the delicious options. Trust me on this one: the Duck Springrolls with Asian Salad are a delight. And if you’re a fan of comfort food, you won’t be disappointed with choices like Springbok Pie, Lamb Shank, or Brandy Pork Fillet (one of my personal favorites). They also offer tasty prawn dishes, risotto, and pasta. Oh, and you can’t leave without trying their divine Amarula Crème brûlée! As much as I adore the food and the friendly hosts, I have to mention the charming decor and antique sideboards that transport me back to the farmhouse kitchens of my childhood. For reservations, call 023-625-1421 or visit their website at www.karoux.co.za.

8. Treat Yourself to Serenity at Temenos Retreat Centre, McGregor

When you step foot into this retreat, it’s like time freezes, and a sense of peace washes over you. The enchanting gardens are filled with ponds, statues, temples, and winding paths. One of my favorite things to do here is to sit on a bench and watch the ducks gracefully glide across the water. It’s a simple pleasure that reminds me to slow down and appreciate the present moment.

The cozy thatched cottages are another highlight of this retreat. They are not only beautiful but also provide a private and fully equipped sanctuary where you can escape from the outside world. If you’re in the mood for a little more interaction, you can dine at the lovely Café Tebaldi or join a rejuvenating yoga class. No matter what you choose, you’ll leave this place feeling refreshed and nurtured.

If you’re curious about exploring the area further, I recommend checking out the Robertson Slow Festival. It’s a time when the community comes together, and the whole area comes alive with vibrant energy. You can support local producers and get a taste of the region by indulging in the fantastic local produce available.

Supporting the community never tasted so good!

Hey there! I wanted to talk to you about why buying locally made products is so awesome. Local products are not only delicious, but they also help support the people in our community. Plus, did you know that buying local actually helps to reduce the impact of global warming? It’s pretty cool, right?

Let me tell you about two local companies that are making amazing products:

Hey there! Let me tell you about this amazing family-run factory in Montagu. They started small, working in a restaurant kitchen, and now they make the most delicious jams and preserves using fresh fruit from the area. The recipes they use have been passed down through generations, so you know they’re really special.

What sets them apart is that they don’t use any preservatives, flavorings, or colorants. That means you get jams and preserves that are all-natural and taste just like the ones your granny used to make. They’re packed full of real fruit, with 60% fruit content, and real sugar. Mmm, I can almost taste it!

And if you’re a fan of conserves, preserves, and savory jams, you’ve got to try Roscherr’s range. Their Roasted Garlic & Onion Marmalade is a real hit! All their fruit comes from the area, except for cranberries, which they get from the USA.

The best part is, this factory is environmentally friendly too. They produce 4,000 to 8,000 bottles a day, and in 2011, they put around R80,000 back into the community. It’s great to see a business giving back, don’t you think?

If you want to know more, you can check out their websites: www.churchstreet.co.za and www.roscherrs.co.za.

Montagu nuts and dried fruit

Did you know that this factory produces more than 500 kilograms of nuts every day? It’s incredible! They take locally grown pears, apples, peaches, and apricots and dry them in the sun for about five days. The best part is that all of this work is done by hand, providing jobs for people in the area.

What’s even more amazing is that most of the dried fruit they make is shipped to countries like Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands. These places definitely know a good thing when they taste it!

If you ever find yourself in Montagu, you have to check out the factory shop. Trust me, you won’t believe the selection they have. And while you’re there, why not stop by the Wine Boutique for some local wines or grab a bite to eat at the bistro? Oh, and don’t forget to take a tractor tour of the fruit fields. It’s a fun and unique experience!

If you want to learn more about this incredible factory and everything they have to offer, visit their website at www.montagudriedfruit.co.za.

A Love for Pesto

If you’re looking to add some extra flavor to your meals, Rachelle Anderson has got you covered. Her fresh herb pestos are a game-changer. Try the Zesty Coriander & Avo Pesto with chicken breasts, or pair the Gusto Churri with steak. For a tasty side, drizzle some Crispy Basil Pesto on baby potatoes or serve biscuits with the Basil, Coriander & Mascarpone Trio. You can find Rachelle’s pestos at various markets in Cape Town, or conveniently order them online. Discover more at www.passionateaboutpesto.co.za.

Discover Rhebokskraal Olives

In the heart of McGregor, on the Rhebokskraal Estate, the van der Colff family creates 100% organic and naturally produced olive products. Visit Rhebokskraal Farm Stall to taste their incredible range, including chutneys, olive salts, and pâtés. Trust me when I say, you’ll be leaving with a full basket! Even if you’re not a big fan of olives, like myself, I recommend joining them for an Olive Tour on the farm. It’s a fascinating experience, and you’ll learn all sorts of interesting things. Did you know that olive leaf extract acts as a natural antibiotic, perfect for fighting colds and boosting the immune system? And did you know that the brine from soaked olives is used as a floor wash in hospitals overseas? The farmhouse itself is a National Monument, and if you’re in need of a quiet weekend getaway, they have two charming cottages available. Find out more at www.rhebokskraalolives.co.za.