The Secret Guide to the Overberg - Part Two

07 March

General

Last week, we shared secrets from those who live in and love the Overberg, inPart Oneof The Secret Guide to the Overberg. We received so many beautiful 'stories' that we decided to share them over a few posts, because we love tips from those who have lived in a place their whole lives, or who have made the Overberg their home. Welcome to Part Two...

1. Bodhi Khaya Retreat

Home for the soul, lily ponds, pristine fynbos.

2. Platbos Forest

Ancient milkwoods, magic, winding mossy ways.

3. Die Plaat

Raw beauty, wild ocean, long beach.

4. Nourish Café

Heartfelt food, best tahini-berry smoothie.

5. Wednesday market at Graze

Seasonal organic produce, best breakfasts, meet the locals.

6. Viva Art Murals

Take in the vibe on the less sleepy side of the village!

1. The food at Grootbos

There’s so much beauty happening over at Grootbos, that I think their culinary wizardry is often underplayed. Chef Ben and his team consistently create the most epic dishes, which range from perfectly succulent steaks, to seafood curries and creamy mussels, fresh from the sea.

2. Sultry Swellendam

I’ve been fortunate enough to stay at 5 star boutique hotel, Schoone Oordt, where I’ve discovered a few local secrets. The waterfall hike at Marloth Nature Reserve; swimming in the Breede River at Bontebok National Park; sundowners over the water at Buffelsjags; horseriding; berry-picking in season; a massage at Rain and dinner at The Conservatory are only a few of the Swellensecrets I’m spilling!

3. The Saturday Morning Market at The Stanford Hotel

This is where locals fill their baskets up with culinary goodness, thanks to the foodie talent in this small town, who gather on the stoep of the Stanford Hotel once a week. I love the bags of lettuces, spinach and herbs that beat any high-end grocery store’s greenery; the ricotta, feta and mozzarella cheeses; loaves of rye and ciabatta that are a must for any long Saturday stoep affair; pates; brioche; Rachel’s Paleo Crackers; Erwin’s delicious handmade German meats; fresh organic vegetables and Brydon’s tempting treats, including flourless chocolate torte and (on occasion) rosewater macaroons!

4. Calamari at Onrus Beach

After enjoying a dip in the sea, there’s little that makes me happier than the best calamari in the Overberg, overlooking the Onrus beach lagoon. When you’re not tucking into their scrummy seafood, Milkwood Restaurant’s beach kiosk offers million Dollar views and rustic-casual experience that smacks of summer.

5. The Klein River, Stanford

If there’s water, I’ll usually be in it, but the Klein River is a stream of magic unlike any other. I’ve swum in it at midnight, kayaked down it, picnic-ed on it, laughed beside it and watched my child grow up in it.

6. Uilenkraalsmond Resort

At Uilenkraalsmond, you can hire very basic, rustic cottages pretty much on the beach for low rates. It's not only a family paradise but a photographer's playground of note.

1. Stanford Hills

Shows the true essence of Stanford – people relaxing, kids kayaking on the dam, dogs running around. Chilled but great wines and brilliant chef Bridget.

2. Creation Wines

The very last but certainly not the very least of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley (wine estates) – exceptional wines paired with food prepared to perfection, coupled with beautiful setting.

3. De Hoop Collection

Truly pristine nature that can only really be appreciated when experienced.

4. Platbos

Natural Gem of the Overberg – Southernmost Forest in Africa that can restore inner peace. The GreenPop Forest Festivals held here are fun events for all to take part in and build a greener future together.

5. Die Plaat

A short bundu-bashing walk takes you to a tucked away stretch of beach that overlooks the abundant waters of Walker Bay – no wonder the whales love it so.

6. Klein River in Stanford

Amazing sights and lovely water. Take a refreshing dip if you up to it!

7. Franskraal “Coastal” Drive

Views over the bay to Dyer Island, the very popular beach at Uilenkraalsmond, the Franskraal Museum, multiple bird species found in the small coves like Blousloep and fishermen leisurely spending their time on the rocks watching the tides roll in.

Do you have any Overberg secrets to share with us?

If so, please message us here!