Written by: Clifford Roberts ; Photography: Johan Viljoen
Most people drive through the Swartland on the way to somewhere else. The N7 pulls them north towards Namibia and the Cape’s west coast, while the R46 threads through wheat fields and rolling hills. The smarter move is to stop.
Some of the best introductions to this region and its wines sit right beside these bustling corridors that crisscross the region.
More than a rest stop, these places represent the friendliest access to a region known for its hospitality and outstanding wines. Ask the person behind the counter which cellar they would visit next, or which wine is on their own table at home. You’ll quickly learn: the locals know.
One place to start is Nuweplaas, on the corner of Riebeeksrivier Valley Road and the R46 between Malmesbury and Riebeek Kasteel. Elrika Lesch grew up in Malmesbury and spent years in catering before opening the doors in 2018 with her husband Lodewyk and their daughters, Christelle and Nadia. The venue includes a children’s play area, so the whole family is catered for, plus an outdoor braai space ideal for large events. The open plan venue incorporates a gift shop of craftwork, preserves, bakes and more, as well as a restaurant. Nuweplaas is open Wednesday to Saturday from 09:00 to 16:00, and on Sunday from 09:00 to 15:00.
Wineries near Nuweplaas include Mullineux, Great Heart Wines and Yellowwood.
Further along the R46, between Riebeek Kasteel and the hamlet of Hermon, you reach Hermitake. This is the home of the Swartland-focused project, Angels Share Wines, by veteran winemaker Alecia Boshoff. The name of the farm stall is a nod to her family’s farming heritage and the colloquial term old-timer farmers used for Hermitage (Cinsault).
A large grassy area, a farm stall, a boutique coffee shop and views across surrounding wheatfields make it easy to linger. Pick up a bottle while you are there, and you carry a piece of the region home with you.
Wineries to visit while you’re here include Porseleinberg, Kloovenburg and Allesverloren.
Heading north on the N7 some 120km from Cape Town, Desert Rose waits at the Koringberg turnoff, between Moorreesburg and Piketberg. This is a well-travelled road for anyone driving from the Cape towards Namibia, and its eclectic decor reflects its reputation.
The farm stall and restaurant welcome children and pets. It is open seven days a week, from 08:30 to 16:00. Its website also lists local attractions and tourism offices, which helps when planning the next leg of your trip.
In the area are the wineries of FRAM and Org de Rac.
Also on the N7 is Kardoesie, arguably one of the most recognisable locations of the region. It sits at the summit of the Piekenierskloof Pass and while it was opened in 1997, it is just the latest iteration of a practice travellers have long followed.
Mountain passes have served travellers for thousands of years, and the crest has always been a natural place to rest.
The Hanekom Family, owners of the wine enterprises Schenkfontein and Winkelshoek, recently acquired Kardoesie. The views from this venue are spectacular. Besides the farm stall, you will find a restaurant, a gift shop and a grassy play area, as well as access to accommodation and a campsite – so a quick stop can easily become an overnight stay.
The wine producers nearby include Testalonga and Schenkfontein.
• The Swartland Wine and Olive Route is a member organisation comprising the biggest representation producers of the Swartland region. If you’re planning farm visits, call ahead; many are open by appointment only.