Greyton

Greyton is a 150 year old village with a sense of history and rustic sophistication that is most unexpected. The backdrop of the beautiful Riviersonderend Mountains frames the historic buildings, oak-lined streets, thatched cottages and rambling rose gardens of yesteryear. The laid back ambiance, where cyclists and donkey carts are more often seen than cars, is complemented by the superior list of restaurants, pubs and galleries. And then there are the friendly locals who welcome and entice one to enjoy all they have on offer.

It is no wonder that Greyton has been the favourite weekend haunt for South Africans, especially those living in the Western Cape as it is just 1.5 hours from Cape Town and the perfect spot to unwind.

Eat!

Food critics continue to rate several of Greyton’s restaurants among the top restaurants in South Africa. From light healthy lunches, coffee and a croissant or a special evening meal, you will be spoiled for choice. And then there is Von Geusau Chocolates, need we say more.

Browse!

Greyton has become an antique and craft hunters’ delight with everything from bygone treasures to pottery. It is also an artist’s hideaway and the local galleries and art shops are impressive.

Then there is the popular Saturday morning market at which one can buy locally made items or fresh produce and delicious homemade food of excellent quality – or just people watch while enjoying a cuppa and cake.  Arrive at 10h00 to avoid disappointment.

Hike!

Boesmanskloof Hiking Trail is a very popular trail through the Riviersondend Mountain Conservation area. It is 15 km of wonderful mountain scenery, rivers, gorges, waterfall, pools and resting spots that takes 4-5 hours to walk and leaves plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings. The walk can be done from Greyton to De Galg (14km from McGregor) or start from Greyton. Many walk both ways.

Explore!

The 2220 Ha Greyton Nature Reserve was established by a former director of the famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town in the 1970’s. It is the third largest in the Cape and contains plants only found in this area. The many walks and trails in the reserve are set in beautiful scenery and magnificent fynbos that is especially impressive in spring. An interesting path to follow is the Noupoort Hike leading to the waterfall in the Noupoort Gorge and almost to the summit of Kanonberg.

Genadendal, established in 1738, is the oldest mission station in South Africa and is just 6kms from Greyton. Enjoy the authentic buildings and lifestyle that is still steeped in the traditions of the past.

Get Active!

Greyton is ideal for cycling. The gravel roads and 40km per hour speed limit make it perfect for taking the kids. A cycle trip to Genadendal, a nearby historic missionary village, is really worth the effort. You can rent a bike from Greyton Bicycle Hire, High Street. Telephone: +27 (0)83 304-9508 or +27 (0)28 254-9409. Another option is to join the out-rides of the Uitkyk MTB Club at 07:00 on a Tuesday, Friday and a Sunday morning. Their local bike shop, Rockhopper Adventures , is situated next to The Oak & Vigne Café.

Horse-riding: Diademe riding school offers safe riding on happy well-cared for horses. See the mountainsides and Greyton surrounds from the back of a horse. Rides take in fruit orchards, fynbos, streams and the lovely country side. Diademe is situated on Bakenskloof farm 10 min before Greyton, on your way in from the N2 on the R406 road. +27 (0)83 631-9533

Directions: Greyton is on the R406 which is off the N2 between Cape Town and Caledon. The turnoff is approximately 3km before Caledon on the Cape Town side. The R406 will first pass Genadendal and does eventually loop back to the N2 after Greyton, but last time we drove it, it was a gravel road in poor repair. It is best to return the way you came unless the locals say otherwise.