A great weekend escape for wine-loving Capetonians

Taking a mini-break is all the more possible if you explore nearby towns, writes Claire Barnardo. She explores Kloovenburg Pastorie in Riebeek-Kasteel - just 80km from Cape Town

The holidays are now a distant memory, what with schedules up and the year taking off like a J&B Met favourite. But that doesn’t altogether mean losing sight of the calm effect. In fact, I’m attempting the impossible: to live a more holiday-inspired life. One way to kick-start this approach is to plan quarterly getaways. Even just one night away can refresh the ordinary. Surrounded by many interesting towns in the Cape, there are many options nearby just waiting to be explored.

Last year, I found a gem in the Swartland: Kloovenburg Pastorie. Set in the rooibos- and wheat-producing part of the Western Cape, Riebeek-Kasteel is one of the oldest towns in the country. It’s also only 80km outside of Cape Town. Not being of plaas-meisie decent, I wouldn’t usually choose to explore inland, dusty farmlands.

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But I must admit that I underestimated the beauty of the Swartland. Standing at the entrance to the Pastorie and looking out over the Riebeek Valley is astounding. The view is breathtaking combining exquisite dusky colours with a serene landscape. I never knew that land could look so picturesque.

Set on the Kloovenburg wine estate, Die Pastorie (The Parsonage) is one of the most historical buildings in the area. The Du Toit family, who purchased the building in the ’70s, recently renovated it into a luxury overnight accommodation option. This is one to add to your luxury-getaway list. The property has been restored and beautifully transformed into a Victorian-style homestead with touches of French decor. The suites are draped in a natural palette of white, cream, and beige – which I love as it instantly clears the mind. Sleek touches of black, silver and colour creep in just enough to glam things up. It is a place to retreat to.

The Pastorie is inviting and the villa offers a gorgeous stay right on the countryside’s doorstep. Being part of the impressive Kloovenburg wine, olive and product range that the Du Toit family have steadily grown, really means a full-circle experience too. Call 022-448-1635.

This article was originally published in one of the Sunday Times Neighbourhood: Property and Lifestyle guides. Visit yourneighbourhood.co.za, like YourNeighbourhoodZA on Facebook and follow YourHoodZA on Twitter.