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All Aboard the Wine Valley Safari: Things to do in Robertson

When was the last time you visited the Robertson wine valley? While you may know the popular Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Constantia wine routes like the back of your hand, very few people have actually visited the Robertson wine valley. And boy, are you missing out! With plenty of amazing things to do in Robertson, this beautiful wine valley and its surrounding attractions will take you by surprise.

What better way to get around than on board the new Wine Valley Safari! This way you can drink as much as you like and no one has to draw straws to be designated driver. This open-air safari vehicle is honestly the ideal (and safer) way to hop between farms and meander through the countryside. The truck, aptly named “the zebra”, picks you up from either your hotel or in the centre of Robertson, and takes you around for the day. From just R180 per person, simply hop off where you like and hop back on when you’re ready to explore more places. The truck runs on the hour every day of the week, and each route offers a unique tour.

Starting off

If you’re an MCC fan, make your first stop at Paul René. This beautiful, family-owned estate welcomes you to its stunning gardens and Dutch architecture, dating back to 1884. Their two flagship varietals are the MCC Brut and MCC Chardonnay – both equally delicious!

Tastings are available Monday to Friday, 08:30 – 16:30, and weekends by appointment only.

Continue your tour with a boutique wine tasting at Bemind Wyne – a cosy garagiste in the heart of McGregor. Meet the owner and winemaker, Ilse Schutte, who is only too happy to explain the creative process behind her bespoke wines. As one of the oldest buildings in McGregor, you’ll see remnants of its former days both as a trading post and family home.

Tip: don’t leave without trying the refreshingly sweet Sauvignon Blanc!

Bemind is open from Wednesdays to Fridays, 10:00 – 17:00; and Saturdays between 10:00 and 14:00.

For one of the more unique things to do in Robertson, hop on the truck to Owl’s Rest Olive and Lavender Farm. Here you’ll be welcomed by the friendliest four-legged, tail-wagging hosts you’ll ever meet. Browse the farm shop for skincare products and enjoy a cappuccino in the lavender bushes. R75 gets you a guided tour of the farm where you can see how essential oils are carefully distilled and produced, as well as multiple tastings of home-baked lavender muffins, olive oil and refreshing cordials.

Hint: a splash of their rose geranium cordial makes a great addition to your gin and tonic!  

Owl’s Rest is open from Monday to Saturday, 10:00 – 16:00.

Also read: Why McGregor will surprise you

For a tasting with a difference, try the chocolate brownie and Three Barrel Shiraz pairing at Lord’s Wines. If that’s not enough to rev your taste buds, order a delicious cheese platter to enjoy while you take in the majestic Langeberg Mountains.

If you’re a lover of all things olive oil, Marbrin Olives should be a mandatory stop on your agenda. While olive season is typically between March and early July, pop in any time to see the working farm in action. Let Clive take you on a gastronomic journey, starting with his fresh, home-baked bread through to his home-made olive tapenade. All of the infused oils at Marbrin are made with pure olive oils. Do try their award-winning Intense, along with other delicious fusions, like dill, fennel and chilli oils.

Image credit: @jaredincpt

On Saturday evenings Marbrin hosts a supper club, where each delectable course is paired with an exquisite wine. Choose between a three-course or four-course meal, starting at R450 per person. Bookings must be made in advance, either as a group or come on your own and join a mixed table.

Pop in for a tasting from Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 16:00, and Saturday until 14:00.

Winding down

While the tastings along the way will definitely tickle your taste buds, the grand finale awaits at Restaurant Succulent at Mo & Rose, Soekershof. Trust Chef Werner Snoek to craft the most unique fine dining you’ll ever enjoy. Dining here is about more than just the meal, it’s an experience. Restaurant Succulent is truly one of Robertson’s hidden gems, and you might easily miss it if you’re not on the wine safari. Spending an evening here is, hands down, one of the best things to do in Robertson.

Image credit: @jaredincpt

The restaurant is open for dinner on Wednesdays to Sundays from 18:00, and for lunch on Fridays to Sundays from 12:00.

When you’ve wined and dined your way around the valley, there is no better place to rest your head than under the twinkling stars at AfriCamps Boutique Camp. Nestled in the Pat Busch Mountain Reserve, this glamping spot is all you need to forget about the world and re-energise with nature. Each tented camp is fitted with two separate sleeping areas (sleeps up to five) and features a large deck with a table, deck chairs and built-in braai overlooking the reserve. Your eco-friendly tent is kitted out with a breakfast nook, kitchenette, bathroom, day bed, and indoor wood stove for those cosy winter nights.

Image credit: @jaredincpt

Spend your days exploring the hiking trails, mountain biking, kayaking, swimming and fishing in the mountain dams, and the only sounds you’ll hear are the calls of wild birds and fish eagles overhead. Wake up to a basket of fresh goodies to prepare for breakfast before setting off for another day of adventure. These tents fill up fast, so be sure to book ahead!

Planning a weekend getaway or joining a wine festival? Check out more of Robertson’s accommodation.

Don’t leave Robertson without popping in for a wine tasting at Kranskop Wines, where you’ll be welcomed by owner and winemaker, Newald Marais. For those that are interested in more than just tasting, Newald’s right hand, James Meyer will happily tell you about the winemaking process. If you’re feeling peckish, you can pre-order a divine cheese and cold meats board to snack on while you take in the views of the valley. If you love your white wine, a bottle or two of their Viognier is a must!

Kranskop is open for tastings Monday to Friday until 16:30, and Saturdays until 14:00.

These are just a few things to do in Robertson and the surrounding valley. More popular attractions include:

The next time you’re planning a few days away in the Robertson wine valley, hop on board the Wine Valley Safari and discover a world of things to do in Robertson and its surrounding towns. If you’re a big group or would like to customise your itinerary, they would be happy to accommodate you. 

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