Darling - Riebeek Kasteel - Yzerfontein
Oh yes, the allure of country living, glorious rural scenes, great foodie spots and local brews... the secret is out, but this little gem of a dorp on the edge of the Swartland, with the nearby Kasteelberg serving as a suitably prominent 946m beacon right on the edge of town still packs a serious punch.
What makes Riebeek-Kasteel special is its ‘best of both worlds’ offer; you sign up for a country experience, but the pleasure will be sophisticated, though authentic, complete with vibrant bistros, artisanal shops, gourmet restaurants and art studios. All of this set off against an imposing landscape, resplendent with vineyards and olive groves.
Gourmets, wine and olive lovers as well as craft brew enthusiasts are spoilt for choice and apart from the huge selection of boutiques and hidden garage vintages in town, the surrounding wine estates like Allesverloren and olive farms like Goedgedacht should not be missed.
If endless unspoilt beaches, the big blue, small fishing boats, snoek and crayfish are your thing, then Yzerfontein will seem like a match made in heaven. You can explore the indigenous flora’s explosion of colour in springtime along the Bokbaaivygie walking trail while keeping an eye out for whales. Visit Dassen Island, situated about 10 km west of Yzerfontein or have sundowners at Pearl Bay Heights from where you can see Table Mountain.
Everyone loves a good road trip – and with a country as beautiful as South Africa, it’s easy to see why. Taking to the road is ingrained...