Situated on the eastern slopes of the Kasteelberg, Riebeek West lies in a farming area noted for its peaches, nectarines, wines and wheat. It is also an important producer of the country's cement requirements.
Two of South Africa's former prime ministers were born on farms close to each other in the area. DF Malan, who led the National Party government in 1948, was born on the farm Allesverloren (now well-known for producing port-style wines) between Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West.
About 3 km northwest of Riebeek West, a signpost indicates the turnoff to Bovenplaas, where Jan Smuts was born in 1870. Smuts was Prime Minister of South Africa from 1919 to 1922 and again from 1939 to 1948. The original farmhouse, school room, poultry house, coach house, dairy and stables have been restored by the owners of the farm, cement company PPC. An interesting collection of photographs is displayed in one of the outbuildings.
Riebeek Kasteel and its sister town, Riebeek West, are two of the oldest towns in South Africa. It was founded around 1661 when Jan van Rieb...
There are numerous wine estates to visit if you are in the Riebeek West area. The Riebeek Valley is known for its fertile soil and vineyards...