In recent years the Riebeek Valley has become something of an epicurean destination, thanks to the proliferation of charming country eateries, excellent Shiraz drinking opportunities (the area is famous for this varietal) and of course, olives.

The annual Riebeek Valley Olive Festival takes place in May and is a celebration of the green and black gems that are borne of the valley. From olive oils to chunky tapenades and olives that have been cured, dried and incorporated into a myriad foodie treats – this is one for the gourmet calendar!

In the days of the colony the Riebeek Valley was dubbed ‘the garden of the Cape’ as most farmers grew crops to sell to the passing ships and settlers in Cape Town. Though a railway line effectively linked the valley to the city, it remains a bastion of rural charm despite the fact that Cape Town is a mere 90km away.

Although there may not be one iconic eatery in the valley, there are more than enough places that will be sure to whet your appetite thanks to the country hospitality and the home cooked fare on the menu.

In Riebeek Kasteel, Kloovenburg Estate (022 448 1635) is a must visit while here. Not only are the international award-winning olive oils out of this world (with the perfect amount of pepperiness), their wines are pretty darn good too – and go down a treat with their alfresco lunch offerings.

If olives are on your agenda, look no further than the Riebeek Olive Boutique (022 448 1368) which carries olive products from around the valley – be sure to buy the kalamata olives in blueberry vinegar.

Looking for a long, lazy lunch stop? Make a turn at The Barn (022 448 1377) where a menu of modern country offerings featuring the freshest produce ensures you won’t want to move anywhere fast (the view from the terrace is unbeatable).

Light meals with a European slant can be found at Café Felix (022 448 1170) where a table under the trees in the courtyard is ideal for a lunch or teatime bite as well as at Café Oppie Square (great breakfasts and the likes of flaky pastry homemade chicken pie) while more sophisticated bistro offerings and a superb wine list are enjoyed at the popular Kasteelberg Country Inn and Bistro (022 448 1110).

If you’re after a drink in luxurious surrounds, make a turn at the beautifully refurbished Royal Hotel bar (022 448 1378) (the elegant restaurant is ideal for a romantic dinner) and if not then stroll across the road to L’Attitudes where beers and pizzas aplenty keep locals well fed and watered (the weekly pub quiz is worth gate crashing too).

At the Pleasant Pheasant (022 461 2170) just outside Riebeek West, you get the best of both worlds. Situated on the renowned Allesverloren Estate wine and port (for which theyre famous) flow freely while the menu of traditional Cape kos that includes boboties and slow cooked bredies offers an authentic taste of the region.

Also be sure to stop in at The Cook & Gardener (022 461 2713) and try a hearty curry (the crayfish is especially good).

The Riebeek West Saturday morning market (first Saturday of every month) brings residents and producers from both sides of the valley together to buy and sell freshly picked fruit and vegetables, still-warm cakes and biscuits and a proliferation of own made preserves and pickles.

At Kirstenhof Manor (022 461 2130), old-fashioned hospitality and sophisticated fare (with a country bent) is the watchword in their Rendezvous Restaurant and the Nostalgia Country Food Store has plenty of homemade treats to take home and fill your pantry.

Though the Riebeek Valley is an easy day trip, with so many mouthwatering eating and drinking opportunities, be sure to factor in an impromptu check-in to any of the charming country hotels and guest houses dotted throughout the valley – tomorrow is another day and breakfast made by somebody else (and enjoyed in beautiful rural surrounds) is always a guaranteed treat.

For more information about the Riebeek Valley visit www.riebeekvalley.info

Vicki Sleet