Riebeek Kasteel Activities

Riebeek Valley Olive Festival

For most of the year the villages of Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West have a kind of low-key rivalry for the title of 'nicest place in the valley for tourists to spend money'. 

©Jacques Marais
The surrounding winelands in the Riebeek Valley all participate in the annual Olive Festival.

But for the first week in May every year, the olive oil, wine and bonhomie flow between the two like a moon-tugged tide. The Riebeek Valley Festival is a celebration of good harvest and attracts tourists from all parts of South Africa. The Riebeek Valley’s assortment of harvest firmly places it on the gourmand map as a must-visit destination.

Kasteelberg Mountain Biking

©Jacques Marais
On the Kasteelberg biking trail, you'll be able to see scenic views of surrounding farms and mountains of the Riebeek Valley.

The Kasteelberg mountain biking (MTB) trail is a must for all MTB lovers. The circular route from Riebeek Kasteel includes a few sections of tarmac, but this is not the end of the world. Crank off from the Royal Hotel towards neighbouring Riebeek West, looking out for a good gravel road heading left into the Wamakers Valley.

From here, a network of farm roads takes you onto Kasteelberg from where you can enjoy 360° views over the Swartland and towards Table Mountain in the distance.

By David Bristow