The Riebeek Valley - They dig a market out here

When you think of winelands and weekends away the usual places come to mind. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl etc. Sometimes Wellington and Darling get a bit of airtime. Robertson could pop up in a conversation. But what hardly ever feaures is the Riebeek Valley. And I can't work out why...

With estates like Allesverloren and Kloovenburg it is obvious that the area can produce wines that can compete with the big boys but what I really love is the boutique farms. Farms with character and names you have never heard of. They're awesome. Olives are also a big deal in the valley. Like, a really big deal. Most estates have olive tastings and olive oils on sale and the quality is consistently good. There are plenty of cool places to stay too, ranging from rustic B&B's to hotels and luxury guesthouses.

And then there's the food culture. Riebeek Valley is packed with brilliant places to eat and if you ever make it out there for a weekend you would be a fool not to eat at Cafe Felix or Bar Bar Black Sheep, but preferably both. Cafe Felix is so awesome that Reuben (as in Reuben's restaurant) had his wedding there. Bar Bar Black Sheep is so awesome that...Jamie Who had dinner there.

And now I float seamlessly into the reason for this article...the Riebeek Valley Farmer's Market which runs on the first Saturday of every month. The market showcases the olives we chatted about earlier, the olive oils, preserves, herbs, cupcakes, cheeses, vruit and veg and general country produce. It is the perfect excuse to head out there. If you're keen, the next market day is on the 3rd of October from 09h00 to 12h00. You can call 084 601 3636 or visit http://www.riebeekvalley.info/ to find out more.

There is also a market on the last Saturday of every month. This one is in Short Street and includes wines and bubbly as well as the local produce. You can check this one out on the same site as above.

So...basically, they dig a market on a Saturday in the Riebeek Valley. The guys are doing their best to get you out there, you should stop making excuses and go .

Cheers,

Jamie Who