Often hailed as the ‘Western Cape’s best-kept secret’; ‘the Wedding Valley’; and even ‘Franschhoek 15 years ago’, the beautiful Riebeek Valley – which consists of Riebeek-Kasteel, Riebeek-West, Hermon and Riebeeksrivier – is one of the most glorious wine- and farming-regions in South Africa.

On my recent return visit to this stunning Swartland region, famed for its wine, olives and weddings – I realised anew that it is a dream for families, couples and solo travellers to explore.

There is so much to see and do (even walking down the street or driving through these little towns feels like an adventure), with plenty of local accommodation, activities (like hiking) and eateries to enjoy.

Best of all, this scenic, peaceful valley is a fairly short drive from Cape Town metro and neighbouring areas like Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Wellington, Paarl and Durbanville.

In this post, I share the best attractions in and around the Riebeek Valley, with a particular focus on Riebeek-Kasteel and to a lesser degree, Riebeek-West.

Best Local Attractions to Discover in the Riebeek Valley

Set against the backdrop of the dramatic Kasteelberg and rolling farmlands, driving into the Riebeek Valley is like being transported back in time. Here, the world runs at a slower, gentler pace.

Children and cats roam the streets, locals greet passer-bys with a friendly smile or brisk nod of the head and above all, peace and tranquility abound.

Entering Riebeek Valley

As I wound my way down the imposing Bothmaskloof Pass – itself a magical part of the surrounding scenery – at first light, it was just me and the valley, stretching out before me.

Then, in that precise moment, Lana Del Rey seductively crooned, “Baby, you the best.” Well, she’s right on that score.

Truthfully, the Riebeek Valley might just be one of the best places in the Cape.

It’s one of those regions that you cannot wait to tell everyone about. Yet, at the same time, some selfish part of you thinks, “Maybe I should keep this one a secret. I don’t want everyone to discover this gem!”

Every time I pass through this valley (which has only been twice in recent years), I leave a part of my heart there.

It’s impossible not to fall in love with it. Here’s a few reasons why:

1) The Royal Hotel (Riebeek-Kasteel)

Situated along Main Street, The Royal Hotel is one of the most famous attractions and institutions in and around the Riebeek Valley. Established in 1862, this beautiful hotel is the oldest hotel in the Western Cape.

Aside from its rich history – aesthetically, it looks and feels like something out of a classic Hollywood movie. (It even boasts the longest porch (stoep) south of Limpopo apparently.)

This timeless hotel offers old-world luxury, with all the modern creature comforts, like air conditioning and high quality rooms. With a glorious pool and deck, garden and suave indoor facilities, it offers travellers a secluded escape from city life.

Food and Drink Experiences to Rival the Best of Them

They even have a 150-year-old bar and a wonderful range of food and drink options spread between their restaurant and bar facilities.

For example, you can enjoy delicious platters, a high tea spread (served with either G&T, MCC or tea and coffee) or even refreshing cocktails and gin. (These are ideal when the valley gets hot in summertime – which it often does!)

When Old-World Beauty Makes for Insta-worthy Snaps

I haven’t visited or stayed in the hotel yet – so I cannot personally comment on its facilities or offerings. But from the outside, it appears beautiful and proudly maintained.

Even if you can’t visit/stay, this is definitely an unmissable local attraction in Riebeek-Kasteel and perfect for those Insta-worthy posts!

2) NG Kerk Riebeek-Kasteel

Nederduitse Gereformeerde (or NG) Kerk in Riebeek-Kasteel is another architectural marvel.

Located a stone’s throw away from The Royal Hotel, this beautiful old church is worth a quick stop, whether you believe in a higher power or not.

One thing I love about small Cape towns is the NG kerks. Every town has one and usually, the town is cleverly built around this important centrepiece. When I visit small towns, I make it my goal to at least locate the NG kerk.

From this church’s quaint wooden gates, you also enjoy spectacular views across the quiet streets and distant mountains. So again, it’s a really beautiful place to snap some Riebeek-Kasteel photos at.

3) Quirky, Colourful Buildings in Main- and Short-Street and De La Plaine Square

While Riebeek-Kasteel’s Short Street is famous for its collection of quirky, colourful buildings – a collection of boutique stores and other interesting – both parts of Main Street and Plein Street’s De La Plaine Square offer their own splash of colour and quirky fun.

Elephant-inspired murals painted at bus stops, human-sized chess sets and brightly coloured hair salons are the order of the day.

So when you walk or stroll Kasteel’s tranquil, pretty streets, it feels like beauty and art is playfully waiting around every corner.

Honestly, even spending an hour walking the town’s streets feels like a treat to all your senses.

I lost myself in the streets, walking past eateries (still setting up for the day ahead) and sleepy suburban homes.

With sunlight, flowers, artwork and soothing birdsong, it is hard not to fall in love with a town where you can stand in the main road for five minutes taking a photo – and not see a single car in that time.

4) Host of Eateries like Bay Leaf & Thyme, Beans About Coffee and More

Riebeek-Kasteel and surrounding towns may be small but they still offer some amazing food and drink experiences.

Not only can you enjoy olive and/or wine tastings but there are also some really good, well-run eateries spread around the region.

Update: As of October 2022, Bay Leaf & Thyme will operate as a deli; this review was written while it was still functioning as an eatery.

On my most recent visit, I tried Bay Leaf & Thyme and boy, did it wow me in every sense.

Not only were the staff friendly and professional – but the restaurant itself has lovely interiors, a wraparound porch (with a lovely view of the street) and a secluded garden area with the most beautiful mural by MacCLEMENTS.

Add to that an impressive menu with some excellent food and drink options – and not just your typical boerekos-style meals either; the menu rivals any contemporary Cape Town eatery – and you have a winner!

For breakfast, I tried their divine, perfectly cooked and sinfully spicy Middle-Eastern-inspired egg shakshuka dish (with poached eggs and homemade bread or a baguette) and a chocolate milkshake.

Honestly, both my meal and drink were faultless – and the gentlemen across from me (who kindly let me take a photo of their choice) raved about their coffee and meal too.

As a plus, they are also pet-friendly to well-behaved pooches. They even offer adorable pet treats and fresh water for visiting doggies.

Bay Leaf & Thyme is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner on Monday – Saturday, 08:30 am – 22:00 pm. And on Sundays for breakfast and lunch from 08:30 am – 16:00 pm.

Other local eateries to try near Kasteel and Riebeek-West include Beans About Coffee (it’s across from Bay Leaf & Thyme and does really well too); The Barn; Cafe Felix; Royal Restaurant; Old Dalby Restaurant; Angie’s Coffee Shop and of course, Eight Feet Village up Bothmaskloof Pass.

5) Beautiful Bothmaskloof Pass and Eight Feet Village

Since its opening in 2021, Eight Feet Village has become a compulsory pitstop when one enters or exits the Riebeek Valley.

I have been dying to visit for months now and, although it was 38 degrees on the day I finally did, I was still blown away by this family-run offering.

Eight Feet originally started as a wine- and coffee-business. It was created by four brothers (hence the eight feet reference), who grew up on local Kloovenburg Wine & Olive Estate.

Since then though, it has now expanded into Mura Restaurant (at Eight Feet Village), Eight Feet Village and Kringe inni Bos.

They also have an online shop, stocking their coffee, wine, biodegradable water bottles and veldskoen shoes.

Eight Feet Village has arguably one of the most stunning settings that any eatery could have.

The views are amazing, as you see the whole valley stretched out before you.

With its collection of eye-catching black containers and expansive wooden deck, it allows guests to enjoy a modern, yet scenic valley experience.

They offer takeaway goodies (mainly coffee and other drinks but they have a few snacks), sit-down meals and of course, the restaurant that can also cater to events and functions.

I only tried a takeaway slushie but it was lovely and refreshing.

I definitely need to return for a proper meal – in cooler weather! 🙂

Also, their staff are extremely friendly, polite and pleasant.

If you visit the Riebeek Valley, Bothmaskloof Pass and Eight Feet Village are unmissable local attractions.

6) Beautiful Swartland Wedding Venues

The Riebeek Valley is often called the Wedding Valley – and for good reason!

Not only does it offer prospective wedding couples unparalled natural beauty, with sweeping mountain vistas, rolling farmlands and vineyards – but the valley is also home to some of the Cape’s most gorgeous, popular wedding venues.

Local wedding venues include Cafe Felix, Merindol Manor, Bartholomeus Klip, Royal Hotel, Groenrivier Function Centre and Het Vlock Casteel to name only a few.

7) Host of Local Wine Estates and Olive Farms

Another major drawcard to the Riebeek Valley are its slew of both boutique and larger scale wine- and olive-estates.

Swartland Region is well-known for producing excellent, award-winning wine and olives – so foodies and wine lovers love visiting! (Especially during the annual Riebeek Valley Olive Festival.)

Pinotage, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon are big in the valley, along with Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc apparently. (Some of the estates are also experimenting with other, somewhat rarer cultivars.)

I have not yet had the pleasure of sampling wine or olives from Riebeek Valley. But I have passed several local wine farms and am most keen to explore them in time.

Some of the top local wine and/or olive estates include Allesverloren, ​Goedgedacht Farm, Het Vlock Casteel, Kloovenburg, Meerhof, Riebeek Cellars and Pulpit Rock Winery.

While some local estates are private and therefore by appointment-only, most are freely open to visitors.

In Riebeek-Kasteel, you will also find the famous Olive Boutique and Riebeek Cellars Wine Shop.

8) Riebeek Valley Garden Centre at the Boomhuis (Treehouse)

Arguably one of my best discoveries in the Riebeek Valley (thank you, Instagram users) was the Riebeek Valley Garden Centre.

Located in Riebeek-West, along the main Voortrekker Road, this is one of the best places for anyone to visit. Especially since it’s about so much more than just the plants. Although, admittedly, plant lovers will think they have found heaven.

When you enter the premises, the dark olive green-and-white Cape Dutch building, with its beautiful lawn and porch area, rises imposingly above you. It somehow conceals just how big and interesting the centre really is from the inside. Stepping into the almost tropical confines, you discover an oasis of plants, trickling fountains and a subtle baobab tree.

Owners Andre and Corne built the centre around this tree – hence the Boomhuis (treehouse) reference – and their love for all things green and growing is clear from the moment you enter.

To your left, you find the chic, rather elegant-looking Krem a Tart Restaurant and Gift Shop. (I must go back for a meal; if it hadn’t been so hot out, I would have on the day I visited.)

Going further in, past an array of cool succulents and brightly coloured pot plants, you reach the partly shaded outside area.

Here, a fun mixture of garden fancies (like deer statues and funky planters) and plants can be found. (With Corne’s help, I managed to select a beautiful violet shrub from this section.)

Then, in more olive green outbuildings, you find Die Vink Nes and Groomed Men and Ladies Salon. There are also some adorable, tiny chickens with an impressive outdoor coop nearby.

Giving Old Treasures a New Lease on Life

What I love is that, apart from a few bricks, most of the building materials and items you see here have been repurposed, given a new lease of life.

For example, even the baobab – 50+ years young – was salvaged from several moves and tree rot. The window frames, meanwhile, were apparently rescued from the devastating Knysna Fires in 2017.

All the builders were also local, too. So, as much as this is a big, impressive local attraction – the owners made it eco-friendly and local at its core.

I regret not staying longer but even this brief visit assured me that this is one of the coolest places in the Cape. It is obvious that a lot of care, love and pride goes into this centre. Both Corne and the staff were extremely welcoming and helpful too.

If you visit the Riebeek Valley, be sure to stop by the Riebeek Valley Garden Centre. You won’t regret it.

9) Cute Local Shops like a La Maison and Biggest Little Market

Riebeek-Kasteel also has an array of adorable, fun little shops like A La Maison (on Main Street) – which sells lovely, unique homeware, garden items and gifts – and the famous Biggest Little Market, at the Corner of Plein and Fontein Streets.

The Biggest Little Market is an especially interesting spot, with a wonderful selection of health-conscious food and drinks, as well as fresh produce, health snacks, homemade baked goodies and gifts.

There are other interesting specialty shops dotted around town like Roes (home- and garden-finds); Treasures (home of once-loved decor, furniture and collectibles); Karoo Spens (decor and gifts); and Deli-Co Farm-style Family Butchery.

So, in another sense, Riebeek-Kasteel is unexpectedly geared towards curated gift shopping and retail therapy too!

10) Fun Artworks and Murals Dotted around Town

Another thing you immediately notice about Riebeek-Kasteel is how artwork and statues are found throughout town. Whether it’s the statues and busts along Main Street or within the secluded sections of Short Street or the beautiful mural near the bus stop.

It’s like the whole town is an outdoor gallery – along with The Gallery.

If you love art or even just colourful, interesting attractions, Riebeek-Kasteel will appeal to you too.

11) Oude Kerk Museum

Sadly, I visited on a weekend so the Oude Kerk Museum was closed. Still, I took a stroll up to admire its rustic, beautiful exterior on 5 Main Street.

Also known as the Riebeek Valley Museum, the Oude Kerk Museum was built in 1856. However, due to a lack of funding, the pastor only came to the church in 1881.

During its heyday, the church was used for town gatherings and church services. Today, the original church is home to the museum.

Step Back into Voortrekker Time

It is small but offers a rich glimpse into Voortrekker- and Cape-history. You can see everything from their old desks to wagons and farming implements. There is even an 1880 horse-drawn hearse and coffin.

Rumour has it that the church building is also haunted, especially near the old pram. This is believed to be because, during the flu pandemic of 1918, there was a shortage of coffins. As such, coffins were reused time and time again. (Although, I must say, it’s very peaceful from the outside so clearly and sensibly, the unhappy spirits stay indoors where it’s cool.)

The museum entry fee is minimal (say, under R20).

The Oude Kerk Museum can be visited Monday – Friday, 09:00 am – 16:00 pm. It is generally closed on weekends. Except every second Saturday from 09:00 am – 13:00 pm. 

12) Cafe Felix and Old Oak Manor

Cafe Felix Restaurant and Old Oak Manor on Church Street is another popular local institution. Famous for its peacefulness, good food and lovely wedding venue, it is a must-visit.

I only walked past their peaceful garden gates but it does look inviting! (Again, I will need to visit another day.)

Guests can enjoy French Provencal tranquility at its best. Enjoy a delicious meal out under the old oak trees or in the courtyard; stay in the delightful guest house; or host your wedding here – the options are endless.

I also love that Cafe Felix was named after a cheeky, black cat called Felix. He has sadly passed on but his memory lives on and they apparently have a parakeet called Felix now!

13) Excellent Accommodation Stays

 

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The Riebeek Valley has a wide selection of accommodation – everything from the Royal Hotel to self-catering or guesthouse-style offerings. There are also a large number of Airbnb rentals, especially between Riebeek-Kasteel and to a lesser degree, Riebeek-West.

What I like most is that the accommodation is of the highest standard and looks amazing, yet the prices are reasonable and budget-friendly. As a bonus, there are even some pet-friendly gems in the area! 🙂

Some accommodation options include the Royal Hotel, Merindol Manor, Cafe Felix and Old Oak Manor, Ruby Rose Country House, Kloovenburg Pastorie, Shiraz Estate, Shades of Provence, De Langenhof Guest House and Red Tin Roof to name a few.

 

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14) Stunning Scenery and Farmlands in Riebeek Valley

It goes without saying that the Riebeek Valley is endlessly beautiful. With sweeping mountain views as far as the eye can see, tranquil farmlands, fields and vineyards and quaint Cape Dutch buildings, this is Cape countryside at its finest.

Plus, the towns and villages are seriously cute and peaceful.

Whether you plan a proper visit to the valley or simply pass through, you are sure to enjoy incredible views and scenery as you go. In fact, the natural beauty is enough to draw me there alone.

15) Plenty of Small Town Charms

One of the standout features in the Riebeek Valley is how tranquil and safe the towns feel. I walked past countless cars with their windows left open a crack for fresh air and I couldn’t help thinking, “That would never fly in a city.”

There is something really grounding and humbling about finding places where young children (or anyone, really) can still safely walk the streets. And that’s not because “well, this is South Africa” either. Generally, you would be hard-pressed to find such a place left anywhere in our modern-day world.

I am only half-joking when I say that I could move to Riebeek-Kasteel tomorrow. Its close proximity to the Mother City, peaceful way of life and small town charms really are so attractive to me.

16) Outdoor Activities to Enjoy

 

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Riebeek Valley has some excellent outdoor attractions too, everything from mini golf to the wine farms and hiking trails lend themselves well to outdoorsy trips.

One of the most famous hiking trails is Pulpit Rock Hiking Trail. It takes you up the Kasteelberg mountainside to savour incredible views of the valley at the top.

Other trails include Pieter Cruythoff Route and Carl Thunberg Route to name a few.

You can also enjoy some excellent guide hikes with Riebeek Valley Trails.

 

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I would love to hike in the Riebeek Valley; it must be pure bliss! 🙂

In Closing

As you can see, the Riebeek Valley is perfect for romance, adventure, travel, accommodation stays and fun day trips!

All in all, it’s hard to find any type of traveller – whether local or international – who wouldn’t love this valley. It really does offer something for everyone to enjoy and savour!

I cannot wait to visit this beautiful valley again soon and explore even more of its national treasures! 🙂

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