Gourmet Adventures Awaits at Bartholomeus Klip in the Riebeek Valley

Greetings, fellow food enthusiasts! I recently stumbled upon a hidden gem nestled in the beautiful Riebeek Valley – Bartholomeus Klip. Let me regale you with tales of delectable culinary escapades, set against a picturesque backdrop.

Imagine meandering through the breathtaking South African landscape, a feast for both the eyes and the soul. As you journey towards Bartholomeus Klip, anticipation swirls within you, for you know that a gastronomic haven awaits.

Once you arrive, you find yourself enveloped by the warm ambiance and rustic charm of the place. It’s as if time stands still, allowing you to bask in the tranquility and serenity that surrounds you. Nature whispers its secrets, beckoning you to partake in its bounty.

But the true allure lies within the gastronomic indulgences that are about to unfold. Bartholomeus Klip is renowned for its divine cuisine, crafted with passion and creativity. Each dish is a testament to the harmonious fusion of flavors, carefully curated to tantalize your taste buds and leave you yearning for more.

Their menu showcases the finest local produce, sourced from the neighboring farms. With each bite, you savor the freshness and the earthy goodness that only farm-to-table dining can offer. It’s a symphony of flavors, dancing upon your palate, leaving you captivated and craving for another mouthwatering melody.

Every ingredient is meticulously chosen and prepared, with a keen eye for detail. The culinary artists at Bartholomeus Klip embrace creativity and innovation, transforming simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Their passion for their craft is palpable, evident in every dish that graces your plate.

And let’s not forget the delightful wine pairings that accompany each course. The sommeliers at Bartholomeus Klip have an uncanny ability to create harmonious unions between flavors, enhancing your dining experience, and taking it to a whole new level.

As I reflect on my time at Bartholomeus Klip, the memory of each dish lingers, a testament to the culinary artistry that awaits you. So, my fellow foodies, if you are seeking an enchanting gastronomic adventure, Bartholomeus Klip calls to you. Take a leap of faith, and allow your taste buds to revel in the divine symphony of flavors that await you in the Riebeek Valley.

Imagine a charming place called Bartholomeus Klip nestled in the beautiful Riebeek Valley. It’s an old farmhouse that has been transformed into a luxurious retreat for people like you and me who crave a little bit of rustic luxury, exquisite cuisine, and pure relaxation.

“Hey there! Attie once told me that if you sit quietly on the stoep, you might hear the quills of the resident porcupine rattling,” I say excitedly as I jump up and run outside. Apparently, this prickly creature has a liking for the herb garden at Bartholomeus Klip.

As I sit on the stoep, sipping my tea and listening to the chorus of croaking frogs, I can’t help but wonder what other fascinating stories this farm holds. And wouldn’t you believe it, I’ve got one about a porcupine!

Picture this: way back in the farm’s history, there was a rather interesting tale involving a porcupine. It’s like stepping into a time machine and unraveling the secrets of the past. It’s these little surprises that make life on the farm so enchanting.

So, here I am, patiently waiting for the porcupine to make its grand appearance once again, just like Attie said. And while I wait, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder for the rich history that lives within these old farm walls.

The more I explore and experience life on the farm, the more I realize how every little creature has its own story to tell. It’s like diving into a treasure trove of tales, each more captivating than the last.

And you know what? That’s the beauty of the farm – it’s a place where nature and history intertwine, creating a symphony of stories just waiting to be discovered. So, come on over and let the farm whisk you away on a journey you’ll never forget.”

In 1714, when I owned the farm, something terrible happened. My wife, Maria Joosten, reported me missing to the local magistrate. She claimed that the last time she saw me was when I went out into the field to look for our missing livestock. It was a distressing situation that needed to be investigated.

The authorities did a thorough investigation and even questioned some of the farm’s slaves. It was during this process that the shocking truth emerged – I had not disappeared. In fact, I had been murdered by my own wife. She confessed that she did it because I treated her poorly and never bought her new clothes. It was a heart-wrenching revelation.

Eventually, my lifeless body was discovered in a porcupine hole behind our farmhouse. Such a cruel and tragic end to my life. But the farm, Bartholomeus Klip, still stands as a grim reminder of the horrors that unfolded within its walls.

Luckily, things are much calmer now at Bartholemeus Klip, and the only danger you face is indulging in too much delicious food. When I arrived, I was greeted by the bright conservatory where we would be dining. The tables were beautifully set, ready to welcome guests for dinner. As I walked into the farmhouse, I was met with the comforting aroma of cooking. “Mmm, that smells like lamb,” I thought to myself. Lesley Gillet led me to my room for the night, and it turns out I was right about the scent. The evening menu featured lamb neck that had been cooked for an impressive 36 hours. It was served with creamy corn, perfectly round parisienne potatoes, a rosemary sauce, and a touch of saffron foam. Suddenly, I couldn’t wait for dinner, even though it still felt far away. Little did I know that by the time dinner was served, I would have eaten enough food to satisfy a small village!

I recently had the pleasure of dining at the renowned Bartholomeus Klip, where I was treated to a delectable dish of plated pressed lamb. Let me tell you, it was an absolute feast for the senses!

At first glance, the dish looked like a work of art. The lamb was expertly arranged on the plate, with each piece carefully pressed to create a uniform shape. It was clear that a great deal of thought and precision went into its creation.

But it wasn’t just the presentation that impressed me. As soon as I took my first bite, I was blown away by the incredible flavors. The lamb was beautifully tender and succulent, with a rich, savory taste that was simply out of this world.

The chef had clearly taken great care in selecting the accompanying ingredients. The dish was served with a delicate sauce, which added a subtle sweetness that balanced perfectly with the savory lamb. And the garnishes, a mix of fresh herbs and vibrant vegetables, provided an extra burst of freshness and color.

It’s always fascinating to me how a well-executed dish can elevate a dining experience. The plated pressed lamb at Bartholomeus Klip was not just a meal, but a work of culinary art. It demonstrated the chef’s creativity and skill, and showcased the incredible flavors that can be achieved when the right ingredients are brought together with care.

If you’re a food lover like me, I highly recommend trying the plated pressed lamb at Bartholomeus Klip. It’s a dining experience that you won’t soon forget!

Welcome to Bartholomeus Klip! We’re not like other places – we invite you into our kitchen to experience the magic firsthand. Step behind the kitchen doors and join me, Louise Gillet, as I show you how to make some of our delicious dishes. Today, I’m going to teach you how to make three mouthwatering dishes: pumpkin risotto, pressed lamb, and guava crumble soufflé.

When you enter my kitchen, it’s like stepping into a whole new world. It’s relaxed and cozy, just like your mom’s kitchen. Don’t be shy – feel free to taste everything and lend a hand! The best part is that you’ll get to enjoy the fruits of your labor because, at the end of each recipe demonstration, we’ll plate up the food beautifully. I love making each dish look like a work of art!

During this cooking class, I started off by showing our new arrivals how to make a creamy pumpkin risotto. It’s a special recipe that’s often on our menu. The fragrance of the lamb filled the air as it cooked, and I couldn’t resist sharing my technique for making perfectly tender pressed lamb. Finally, I prepared the most amazing guava crumble soufflés. They were so good that even though our tummies were already full from the risotto and lamb, we couldn’t resist enjoying these sweet treats.

Come join us in the kitchen at Bartholomeus Klip, where you’ll have an unforgettable culinary experience. I can’t wait to share my passion for cooking with you!

I had the most incredible pumpkin risotto at Bartholomeus Klip. Let me tell you, it was absolutely delicious! The flavors were out of this world; I couldn’t get enough of it.

And as if that wasn’t enough, we each got a copy of this amazing recipe book called Life on a Cape Farm by Louise and Lesley Gillet. These two are actually twins, so you might have to do a double take when you see them. Anyway, this recipe book is something else. It won a fancy award, and trust me, it deserves it. The pictures in this book will make you drool, and I’m not kidding! I might actually lick the recipe pages, they look that good.

Louise Gillet and her team wowed us with their cooking skills. But the fun didn’t end there. After the cooking demonstration, we all gathered in the lounge for a delightful afternoon tea. We were already stuffed from the delicious food, but somehow we found room in our bellies for more. We devoured freshly baked scones, spinach and gruyere parcels, creme brulee tarts, creamed horns with toasted coconut, and sweet onion and goat cheese tarts. One of the guests cleverly remarked that we needed a food spittoon at Bartholomeus Klip. The food was so good that spitting it out was out of the question. It’s better to go there wearing loose-fitting clothes and bring a needle and thread in case a button pops off.

Join me for a delightful high tea at Bartholomeus Klip!

Hey there! Let me tell you about this awesome adventure I had after tea with Daniel. He took us on an incredible two-hour drive through the farm’s massive 10,000-acre reserve. Can you believe it? The reserve is home to not just a few, but over 850 different plant species. And that’s not all – there are also more than 600 amazing animals roaming around.

On our drive, we got to meet some of the magnificent buffalo that are part of the farm’s buffalo breeding program. Did you know that these buffalo play a big role in keeping foot-and-mouth disease under control? Yeah, it’s true! This disease can actually be passed from the buffalo mother to her baby through their milk. So, to make sure the disease doesn’t spread, the baby buffalo are taken away from their moms. But don’t worry, they’re in good hands – they have surrogate cows, called Jersey cows, to look after them.

Here’s the really exciting part: because the farm has successfully gotten rid of foot-and-mouth disease in their buffalo, they can now use the cows for milk production. Talk about turning a challenge into an opportunity!

So, you see, this whole buffalo and cow situation is pretty fascinating. It’s a great example of how people can come up with smart solutions to solve problems. Plus, it’s a perfect blend of nature, science, and farming. I had such a blast on that drive, learning all about this unique farm and its incredible animals and plants. You should definitely check it out if you ever get the chance!

When I visited Bartholomeus Klip, I was in awe of the buffalo breeding project they had. The reserve was beautifully set against the Limieteberge Mountains, creating a breathtaking view. The locals called these mountains “Limieteberge” because they believed it was the edge of the world.

During the game drive, I had the chance to see various animals such as bontebok, eland, gemsbok, a bat-eared fox, and a herd of quagga. I learned that Bartholomeus Klip is actively involved in a breeding program for quaggas, as there are only 120 left in the world. It was incredible to witness their conservation efforts firsthand.

During our tour, we also visited the tortoise enclosure. It was home to over 150 geometric tortoises that had been saved after a fire destroyed their natural habitat. Seeing these rare tortoises up close was a unique experience.

While Daniel, our guide, shared interesting information about the flora and fauna in the area, he also made sure we were taken care of, offering us refreshing drinks. I was amazed by the variety of fynbos and rare flowers that adorned the landscape.

This game drive at Bartholomeus Klip was unlike any other. The conservation efforts, from protecting the foot-and-mouth-free buffalo to preserving the fynbos and housing the rare quaggas and geometric tortoises, made it a remarkable experience. Although I had heard a lot about “feral pigs,” I didn’t get to see them during my visit. Apparently, they’re a problem in the Riebeek Valley, and I can only imagine the chaos that ensued when a group of rogue pigs escaped their pigsty and went running wild in the hills!

When I returned to the farmhouse, it was already nighttime. The warm glow of lanterns greeted me as I stepped onto the wrap-around verandah, casting a soft light on the surroundings. Inside, the conservatory was adorned with flickering candles on each table, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. And in the lounge, a roaring fireplace provided a comforting warmth.

After taking a two-hour break from eating, I found myself shamelessly indulging in the delicious salmon canapés that were being served with drinks before dinner. The combination of flavors was simply irresistible. As I enjoyed the canapés, I could hear the faint sound of bleating lambs coming from the stoep, adding to the rustic charm of the farm.

The main activity on the farm is the rearing of Merino sheep, and there are more than 3,000 of them. Guests have the exciting opportunity to witness the sheepdogs in action, herding the sheep with remarkable skill and agility. For those interested, there is also the chance to observe the sheep shearing process, which usually takes place in February and September.

What caught my attention was the farm’s progressive approach to agriculture. In addition to sheep farming, they also cultivate wheat, canola, and something quite unexpected – hemp. It’s inspiring to see a farm embracing innovative practices and diversifying their produce.

I had the incredible opportunity to visit the Bontebok reserve at Bartholomeus Klip, and let me tell you, it was a true feast for the senses. But before we even got to the main event, there were a few delightful surprises along the way.

Our evening began with a delightful selection of drinks and snacks, the perfect introduction to what was to come. And then, it was time for the main event – a four-course dinner that was nothing short of exquisite. Each course was carefully paired with a fine wine, including the farm’s very own special blend.

But it wasn’t just the food and wine that made this experience unforgettable. As we sat down at the table, we were each given a warm towel infused with lavender. It was a small touch, but it made us feel so special and well taken care of.

As the first dish arrived, I couldn’t help but be in awe of the incredible flavors and presentation. We started with mussels cooked in red onion, ginger, chilli, fermented black beans, garlic, and sour cream. The combination of these flavors was pure magic.

Next up was a roasted pumpkin soup that was like a hug in a bowl. It was creamy, comforting, and full of autumnal flavors. I could have had a whole bowl of it and been perfectly content.

And then came the 36-hour pressed lamb, and let me tell you, it was the definition of perfection. It was tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. It was easily the best lamb I have ever had the pleasure of eating.

And just when I thought I couldn’t eat another bite, dessert arrived. A rich torte that was a work of art. It was a combination of ganache, orange pancake, walnut cream, and caramel ice cream. Every bite was a symphony of flavors and textures.

I have to admit, by the end of the meal, I was feeling wonderfully full. My stomach had willingly expanded to accommodate all of the delicious food I had consumed. My skirt, however, wasn’t quite as forgiving and decided to give up the fight, with the button falling to the floor in defeat.

Overall, it was an evening of pure indulgence and culinary bliss. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect dining experience. So if you’re ever in the area, I highly recommend treating yourself to a meal at the Bontebok reserve at Bartholomeus Klip. You won’t be disappointed.

When I stayed at Bartholomeus Klip, I had the most luxurious experience. From indulging in a hot bath in the Victorian-style bathroom to enjoying a nightcap of sherry and chocolate, everything was designed to make me feel pampered and relaxed. And let me tell you, it worked like a charm.

But here’s the thing – the next morning, I woke up feeling slightly hungry. I couldn’t believe it! After all that delicious food and the cozy ambiance, I thought I would be full until lunchtime. But no, my appetite had other plans.

So, in my pajamas, I made my way to the lounge, where I discovered a whole spread of breakfast options. It wasn’t just your typical tea and coffee. No, they had fruit juices, muffins, biscuits, rusks, and a bowl of fresh fruit. I grabbed a banana and a cup of tea and headed out to the patio.

As I sat there, savoring my simple breakfast and listening to the sounds of the farm, I couldn’t help but wonder if there was some sort of magic in the air. The whole farmhouse seemed to be infused with the subtle scent of lavender and other essential oils. It created an atmosphere that was both calming and invigorating – almost like being at an aromatherapy retreat. And maybe, just maybe, those scents had something to do with my perpetually growling stomach.

Whatever the reason, I couldn’t deny that Bartholomeus Klip had cast its spell on me. From the moment I arrived to the moment I reluctantly left, every detail was thoughtfully taken care of. They knew exactly how to make me feel nourished, relaxed, and utterly spoiled.

Waking up at Bartholomeus Klip is a delight. The mornings here are laid-back, with no 5am wake-up calls. Instead, you can enjoy a leisurely morning and indulge in a delicious brunch later on. The conservatory is where you’ll find a tempting spread of delectable treats that will transport you to food heaven. For my final meal at Bartholomeus Klip, I savored a delightful muesli pie, along with fresh strawberries, peaches, guavas, and yogurt drizzled with farm honey. And that was just the beginning.

I couldn’t resist trying a butternut crumpet, an egg roll filled with ham and caramelized onions, and some cold meats and cheese. As I enjoyed my eggs, bacon, sausage, tomatoes, and mushrooms, I watched the weavers skillfully build their nests outside the window. In that moment, I couldn’t help but wonder how I would return to reality after such a blissful experience.

But then I remembered that I had a copy of Life on a Cape Farm. It struck me that I could recreate some of the mouthwatering dishes I had enjoyed during my stay. All I needed was a charming historic farmhouse in The Swartland, a flock of sheep, and a herb garden. Oh, and maybe a pet porcupine too. With these simple pleasures, I would be able to savor the flavors of Bartholomeus Klip, even when I’m miles away.

Welcome to Bartholomeus Klip and Food Routes!

Here at Bartholomeus Klip, we’re excited to be a part of Food Routes – your online gateway to a wide range of exciting culinary experiences throughout South Africa. Whether you’re a food lover, a wine connoisseur, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Food Routes has something special in store for you.

With Food Routes, you have the opportunity to embark on a delicious adventure, indulging in mouthwatering meals and exquisite wines while immersing yourself in the beauty of our country. From farm-to-table dining experiences to wine tastings and luxurious accommodations, Food Routes offers it all.

Join us on a culinary quest and discover the rich flavors, vibrant cultures, and stunning landscapes that make South Africa a true food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a memorable getaway, Food Routes has curated a collection of experiences that will leave you satisfied and craving for more.

So go ahead, explore Food Routes and book your next culinary adventure with us. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. Just be mindful of your waistline – with such delectable treats awaiting you, it’s hard to resist indulging a little too much!