As the oldest West Coast town, Hopefield – which lies in the heart of the Sandveld, edged by Zoute River – has a rich Cape history that dates as far back as 1851.
And while a visit to Hopefield may make you feel as if time has stood still, the town also has some modern, forward-thinking touches – including the new wind farm that helps generate electricity for thousands of low- and medium-income houses.
In this post, we look at wonderful things to discover in Hopefield, including where to stay, where to eat and of course, what to do when visiting this tranquil West Coast town.
Where to Stay in Hopefield
Hopefield may be humble in size, yet it has a range of lovely accommodation options available to visitors.
One of the cooler offerings is the Veldhuisie Bus and Eco Cabin, which is available to book on Airbnb.
This converted bus and tiny wooden cabin, which sleeps four guests, allows you to immerse yourself in nature, with some creature comforts to tide you over.
This bus-meets-cabin is totally off-the-grid, with solar lights and gas appliances, yet still offers a wood-fired hot tub, fireplace, wraparound deck, fully equipped kitchen and other amenities to ensure a delightful stay.
Another Hopefield Airbnb gem is The Blacksmith’s Cottage. This cosy, comfortable cottage sleeps two guests and comes complete with all the old-world, Karoo charm you could desire.
Cottage amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, fireplace, braai facility, queen-sized bed and TV. It’s the perfect getaway for couples to enjoy when visiting Hopefield.
Other Hopefield accommodation offerings include:
- Commercial Hotel
- Zoute River Garden Farm
- Spindlewood Barn
Where to Eat in Hopefield
Hopefield, like so many Western Cape small towns, wants for nothing when it comes to quality, welcoming foodie spots.
G’s in Hopefield offers a beautiful setting, complete with a front stoep (or porch) for prime golden hour al-fresco dining. The food and service here is top notch; menu highlights include rump steak, beer-battered fish, tasty pizzas and other delicacies to silence those hunger pangs!
If you’re craving excellent West Coast pizzas and burgers (and more), head to The Cheese Lady Diner. Visitors frequently compliment this eatery on its friendly service, affordable meals and drinks and above all, lovely setting.
For lighter meals and decadent sweet treats, visit Copper Kettle; their cheesecake and breakfasts come highly recommended!
Otherwise, try the nostalgia-inducing Hello Eatery and Décor. Hello’s fresh, great food attracts new visitors, while its friendly service and quaint setting keeps guests coming back for more.
For those seeking a great farm stall to savour near Hopefield, try Plaasmol Padstal or Moose Farm Stall. Both farm stalls are well-loved and perfect pit stops!
What to Do in Hopefield
It might not seem like Hopefield has a lot to offer in the way of attractions – but this small town has some unexpected delights.
One of the town’s most beautiful, esteemed centrepieces is the whitewashed Dutch Reformed Church, which is home to a century-old organ that still gets played on Sundays.
Another historic landmark is the Hopefield Museum and Information Centre, which is dedicated to preserving the town’s rich history.
Open Monday to Friday from 9am – 4pm, the museum offers a glimpse into the past and even houses some incredible fossils, including a replica of the hominid skull Saldanha Man.
Like the rest of the West Coast, Hopefield springs into life with gorgeous indigenous wildflowers during August and September.
Throughout the year, the town also showcases some 500 different species of naturally occurring fynbos – although the town really shows off during August when the Hopefield Fynbos Show takes place.
Hopefield is also famous for its quality fynbos honey, which is produced locally and easily accessible at Simply Bee Beeswax Products.
For those keen to see the town’s natural beauty on foot, why not hike the Langrietvlei and Helderwater trails, found on nearby farms?
Finally, if you visit Hopefield on a Saturday, pop by the Hopefield Market. This small batch, artisanal pop-up market takes place from 10am – 2pm at 45 River Street and offers a taste of slow-living, country goodness and fresh, seasonal foods.
These are just some of the great things to discover in humble Hopefield.
Written by Tamlyn Ryan for travel opulent box / Images as credited /
Featured image by The Blacksmith’s Cottage
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