THE SA-WESTCOAST HUB- South Africa's west coast revealed- towns, history, tours, routes, local attractions eateries, accommodation, and much more - Become a member - SEE CLICKABLE AREA MAP
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The Riebeek Valley  The mountain was named by Pieter van Meerhof part of the first European expedition led by Pieter Cruythoff in 1661 When he summited the neck of the mountain clambering over what is now called Bothmanskloof Pass and gazed over a plain filled with wildlife, and early inhabitants.These early peoples had resided in this ancient area for millennia – a painting above Riebeek West records the view of the wildlife for posterity. I  t was only approximately forty years after Cruythoff’s discovery of the valley before the first settlers arrived, spreading out as far as Tulbagh and Riebeek Kasteel. Some of these early pioneers were Huguenots, like Gauillame du Toit who acquired Zonquasdeurdrift and Daniel Hugot whose lands extended through the present day villages. The prominent wine farms of Kloovenburg and Allesverloren were first established during this period, giving the Riebeek Valley a long history of viticulture.Inhabitants of the Riebeek Valley are descendants of all the original peoples, the early settlers and a new generation of city dwellers tired of the rat race as well as immigrants from abroad. This has created a vibrant cross culture – a veritable united nations. Today the Riebeek Valley is made up of three towns; Riebeek Kasteel, Riebeek West and Hermon. The Valley has a climate similar to the Mediterranean north coast and reminds many visitors of the south of France with friendly people, excellent wines and good quality fruit and olive products. The villages are surrounded by wheatfields, verdant green in winter, golden in summer. The nutritious olive is a relatively new cropthat has successfully led to an annual olive festival on the first weekend of May. Some of the oldest wine farms in the country are located on the slopes of Kasteelberg. Because of the hot climate and relative low rainfall the yield of vineyards are low and of high quality. The Valley is particularly well known for top class Shiraz, Chardonnay and Port. Wines can be bought directly from well known estates and cellars like Kloovenburg, Allesverloren, Meerhof, Riebeek Cellars and Pulpit Rock.  Apart from wine and olive tasting, cycling, hiking, horse riding and fly fishing are just some of the outdoor activities to enjoy. For food lovers there are a variety of excellent restaurants to choose from while the choice in accommodation varies from basic B&B to good guesthouses and hotels.The Riebeek Valley essentially offers a place of relaxation, a place where one can enjoy the countryside at one’s own pace. It is the epitome of country life ~ breathing in fresh, green air and rejuvenating the body and soul. Home to several award-winning wineries and olive oil producers, visitors are warmly welcomed and encouraged to taste wine, olives, olive products and delicious olive oil. During the olive harvesting season guided tours of the olive oil presses can be arranged. The Riebeek Valley is well known as an artist’s haven and a wide variety of art can be found either by contacting the artists directly or by visiting one of the art galleries. Having indulged in the fantastic gourmet food and wine that is on offer, stroll around the villages and enjoy the wide variety of shops ~ from bric-a-brac and hand made furniture to health and fresh produce to clothing and garden ware! There are also several relaxing walks, hikes and mountain bike trails or even 4x4 trips and paintball for the more venturesome. Visit this stimulating Valley and sample some of their enviable lifestyle!
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