Following hot on the heels of our Betty’s Bay day trip inspiration, we look at another Overberg gem in gorgeous Greyton.
In recent years, Greyton has arguably become one of the Western Cape’s most favoured small towns.
With charming accommodations, rich natural beauty, quirky shops, and antique stores, and family-friendly experiences, it isn’t hard to see why Greyton is such a popular destination.
Situated under two hours from Cape Town, Greyton – otherwise known as South Africa’s “little England” – is a glorious day trip (or weekend) destination – here’s why:
Distance from Cape Town: Roughly 1 hour, 45 minutes
Interesting Stops Along the Way:
If you drive from Cape Town to Greyton via the N2 (before hitting the R43 and finally, the R406), you will enjoy Cape Overberg Region’s pristine, incredible scenery.
Another highlight is traversing through some beautiful regions (including Somerset West, Grabouw, Elgin Valley and past the Bot River wine route), passing some exciting attractions as you go!
Attractions in the Region:
Soak up Sir Lowry’s Pass
Sir Lowry’s Pass is one of the most impressive, beautiful mountain passes in South Africa so it is a fitting attraction to savour on your way to Greyton.
The views up (and down) the pass are incredible and offer glimpses of cliff faces, fynbos and the ocean in the distance, before you crest the pass and ascend into the Grabouw/Elgin regions.
Pass verdant Elgin Valley, Grabouw and charming Houw Hoek Coffee Shop and Farm Stall
Elgin Valley and Grabouw are some of the most fertile, tranquil places in South Africa. These rural farming areas offer beautiful cool climate wines and pretty estates, the cool Elgin Railway Market, lush apple- and pear-farms, as well as plenty of outdoor experiences and marvellous accommodation.
One of the area’s most popular pitstops – perfect for securing your padkos at – is Houw Hoek Coffee Shop and Farm Stall. It is famous for its country fare, in particular its pies!
Admire the Bot River Wine Route
Another beautiful attraction that you’ll pass by on the way to Greyton is the Bot River wine route. This wine route offers a selection of lovely farms, like Wildekrans, Gabrielskloof, Arcangeli and more.
It’s a scenic setting and pleasant drive to enjoy. And, if you visit the region for an extended stay, it’s worth savouring these estates first-hand!
Explore the Greyton Saturday market
If you arrive in Greyton in the morning, why not pop by the Greyton Saturday Market? This weekend market runs weekly from 10 am – 12pm and offers an array of stalls and products to choose from.
Situated opposite the NG Kerk/Church in main road Greyton, this bustling market features everything from local cheeses and fresh pancakes to calligraphy cards, watercolour, baked goods and even second-hand books and magazines.
Stroll through the village or shop for antiques
Greyton is famed for its old-world charm. Forming part of this are the rustic, quaint streets, pretty, historic buildings and interesting stores.
Explore the peaceful streets on foot, camera or smart phone at the ready, or cycle along and soak up the sights and colourful buildings.
If you have time, visit the village’s local stores, which include everything from Fiore Garden Centre, vintage clothing store, Once More with Feeling and decadent Von Geusau Chocolates (a purveyor of artisanal, handmade Belgian chocolates).
Grab a bite at a local Greyton eatery
Before or after lunchtime, why not sample the local cuisine by visiting the small town’s local eateries or coffee shops?
Greyton has a delightful selection of eateries, including Ambiance Greyton, Abbey Rose, 1854 Restaurant and more.
Enjoy the area’s nature through a nature walk, hike or MTB trail
Lastly, before you head home, why not carve out some time to enjoy Greyton’s soothing nature spaces?
There are many nature-dense paths to follow, including in the local nature reserve, alongside the river or of course, through the historic streets.
Or, if you prefer some adrenaline-inducing adventure, take your MTB bikes and helmets along for the day and enjoy some of Greyton’s 150-km-worth of MTB trails.
These are just some of the reasons why gorgeous, little Greyton makes a wonderful day trip or weekend getaway!
For more information on Greyton and its attractions, please visit the Greyton Tourism website: http://www.greytontourism.com/.
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