Forming part of the tranquil Riebeek Valley, together with its sister town, Riebeek West, Riebeek-Kasteel is one of South Africa’s oldest (and most beautiful!) towns.
Encircled by mountains, farmlands, wine farms and dreamy function venues, the charming town of Riebeek-Kasteel offers plenty for solo travellers, families, tourists and more to enjoy. What’s more, the Riebeek Valley is famously known for its wheat, olives, wines and weddings.
In this post, we look at the best things to do and places to stay in Riebeek-Kasteel and its surrounds:
The Royal Hotel
If you are looking for royal treatment from a truly historic, beautifully maintained grand old dame, look no further than The Royal Hotel, a focal point in Riebeek-Kasteel.
It is one of the oldest hotels in the Western Cape, yet has managed to seamlessly combine modern-day life with nostalgic old-world charm.
With everything from a King Suite to double rooms at its disposal, The Royal Hotel offers a room for every occasion. They also have wonderful in-room amenities and top facilities, including a Wellness Centre, The Royal Restaurant, a swanky bar and function venues available for hosting both conferences and weddings.
Another unexpected joy found here is the Royal Hotel’s special high tea, which is available on Saturdays at 3 p.m. (Please book at least 48 hours in advance to enjoy the Saturday tea experience.)
With this, you can enjoy your own selection of finger sandwiches, scones, freshly brewed tea, a glass of MCC, or even some G&T.
Website: https://royalinriebeek.com/
Explore Short Street
Just across the road from The Royal Hotel, you can find one of the town’s most interesting attractions: Short Street.
Short Street is a bustling, fascinating hub within Riebeek-Kasteel. With a lovely array of boutique shops and interesting spots, this colourful, quirky part of town is worth a proper stroll or quick exploration.
Website: https://www.riebeekvalleytourism.co.za/category/businesses/#shopping
Riebeek Valley Wine Route
The Swartland Region, of which the Riebeek Valley forms part, is well-known for producing quality wines so be sure to sample and/or stock up when visiting this unique valley.
The Riebeek Valley has some truly lovely wine farms to explore: sip your way through the Valley with the likes of Kloovenburg Wines, Pulpit Rock Wines, Het Vlock Kasteel, Meerhof Winery and more.
Another highlight in the Riebeek Valley are its delicious olives and olive oils – so, when visiting, don’t forget to try those too!
Website: https://swartlandwineandolives.co.za/explore-swartland-wine-olives-route/
Riebeek Vista
If you are keen to linger longer in peaceful Riebeek-Kasteel, another excellent choice is stunning Riebeek Vista.
This beautiful accommodation offering has a lovely selection of stylish rooms and suites to choose from.
And, in a truly touching gesture, all its rooms and suites are named after dear family connections to the owners, husband-and-wife team, Ian and Jackie.
For example, Tales from India speaks to the years that Ian’s paternal family spent in India, while The Resting Post pays homage to Jackie’s maternal grandparents and her mother, who was born on an ox wagon during the family’s trek across the famous Kalahari Desert.
Each room has its own en-suite shower room, king-sized bed, air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Not to mention, true to its name, the guest house offers dreamy mountain views, which make its setting and location so memorable!
Website: https://www.riebeekvista.com/
Riebeek-Kasteel Restaurants
If you wish to enjoy some delicious food in the Swartland countryside, try one of Riebeek-Kasteel’s delightful cafes and restaurants.
Dine at The Royal Hotel’s own Royal Restaurant; charming Cafe Felix; The Barn; ATS Eatery & Bar or The Jolly Olive, to name only a few options.
Wherever you dine in Riebeek-Kasteel and its surroundings, you are sure to have a lovely food experience, complete with friendly service, warm hospitality, and plenty of characterful Cape charm!
These are just some of the amazing things to do and places to stay in royally beautiful Riebeek-Kasteel. Which is now a must-try for your travel list?
Written by Tamlyn Ryan for travel opulent box.
Lead image courtesy of: The Royal Hotel via Facebook
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