Been wondering what the Helderberg has to offer?

An easy guide for exciting places to visit in the Helderberg area. Everything from restaurants, to bars, to wineries, to book shops, to pottery painting, and so much more!

1. CHELSEA VILLAGE – SOMERSET WEST

Chelsea Village is a unique boutique shopping experience in the heart of Somerset West. The village offers a tranquil, relaxing environment in which to meander & be inspired by what is on offer & then perhaps relax further with a bite to eat & a cup of coffee or a glass of wine!

• Coffee at Chelsea Village: Perfect for a coffee and a quick snack or treat. Great breakaway from the busy town of Somerset West.
• Seafood at Chelsea Village: Their luscious and whimsical restaurant, is the quintessential culinary hub of delectable cuisine, using the freshest local ingredients to create a memorable experience.The food is wholesome, with a touch of artistic flair and boasts innovative flavour profiles that excite the senses. They cater for everyone: seafood lover, red meat lover, even the salad lovers
• Address: 6 Bright St, Somerset West, 7130
• Trading hours: Coffee: Mon-Fri: 7:00-17:00; Sat-Sun: 8:00-17:00; Seafood: Mon-Sat: 12:00-21:00
• Contact: 021 851 1948

2. BIKINI BEACH BOOKS – GORDON’S BAY

Image source: Laura McCullagh

Bikini Beach Books is a laid-back outpost for reading material with piles of secondhand titles on diverse subjects.

• What they offer: Outside the shop you will find boxes filled with books going for next to nothing. Inside the old beachfront house, it is overflowing with every kind of book imaginable. All the books are also very conveniently labeled to help you find what you’re looking for. In the front area you’ll also find random things like maps and shells.
• Address: 41 Beach Rd, Gordon’s Bay, 7151
• Trading hours: Mon-Sun: 8:00-21:00
• Contact: 021 783 7656

3. PROOF WINE BAR – SOMERSET WEST

Proof is an upmarket wine bar in the heart of Somerset West. They are known for their wine, ambiance and friendly, knowledgeable staff. Whether you’re having a drink after work, partying with friends or celebrating a birthday, they’ve got you covered.

• What they offer: They serve a constantly changing selection of craft beer, fine spirits and seasonal cocktails to complement their carefully selected wine list. Delicious bar snacks and platters, wine-related events, and monthly quiz nights add to the allure of this hidden gem. Be sure to watch their events page for upcoming dates!
• Address: 5 Drama St, Somerset West, 7130
• Trading hours: Mon-Sat: 15:00-23:00
• Contact: 066 227 3262

4. HEALEY’S CHEESERY AND DELI – SOMERSET WEST

Healey’s has consistently been in the world’s top four cheddars since its inception in 2005. Come and relax on the deck overlooking a lush lawn and exquisite views into False Bay.

• What they offer: Pair the amazing atmosphere and view with Healey’s cheese, Waterkloof wines or craft beer and you’re left with a perfect afternoon out. Kids can play on the jungle gym while parents relax either outside on the deck or inside in the cozy deli. The coffee is also definitely a strong contender for best in the area.
• Address: Waterkloof Wine Estate, Old Sir Lowry’s Pass Village Rd, Somerset West, 7130
• Trading hours: Mon-Thu: 8:30-17:00; Fri-Sat: 8:30-17:30; Sun: 8:30-16:00
• Contact: 021 200 2661

5. CERAMIC CAFÉ – SOMERSET WEST

Come to Ceramic Café on Sweetwell Farm and experience the joy of creating your own individual unique masterpiece while enjoying a light meal and refreshment and share the space with turkeys, chickens, geese and sheep.

• What they offer: Bisque painting. You select a piece of bisque from their huge selection, then paint and decorate it with guidance and assistance from supportive staff. The studio fee includes: the use of three paints and two brushes as well as glazing and firing of your unique piece. They also offer parties and pottery classes.
• Address: Plot 215, Raithby, Somerset West, 7125
• Trading hours: Wed-Sun: 9:00-17:00
• Contact: 021 300 5132

6. PAJAMAS & JAM – STRAND

The unique decor, French café style music, a fireplace and the laughter of happy patrons at Pajamas & Jam create a space you don’t want to leave.

• What they offer: They are known for their incredible baked goods (especially their extraordinary cakes). But they also serve breakfast from their frequently updated menu with a wide variety and daily seasonal items. Then for lunch they serve your old time favourites like cardamom & orange cake and classics like French early grey tea for a memorable afternoon.
• Address: 32 Van Zyl St, Strand, 7140
• Trading hours: Mon-Fri: 7:00-16:00; Sat: 7:00-13:00
• Contact: 021 854 6408

7. THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE – SOMERSET WEST

The Playhouse Theatre is owned and operated by the the Hottentots Holland Dramatic Society, a non-profit organisation. They are one of the oldest amateur dramatic societies in the Western Cape and known for producing quality shows of all genres.

• What they offer: The foyer consists of a beautifully sprung floor the exact size of the stage as well as an area with full catering facilities from which tea, coffee and hot chocolate are sold as well as areas where sweets and other light refreshments are sold. They also have a fully licensed Theatre Bar.
• Address: Cnr Swalle St & Lourensford Rd, Somerset West, 7130
• Trading hours: Depending on shows
• Contact: 072 384 1953

8. DE BRASSERIE – STRAND

At De Brasserie, you can experience a piece of European grandeur and charm, while enjoying exquisite beachfront views, an unsurpassed inviting ambiance and first-class wining and dining. Their stylish Belgium inspired restaurant delivers exactly what it promises: world-class food, a host of wines (including their own Almenkerk and Lace ranges), luxurious coffees, a beautiful setting and excellent service.

• What they offer: The De Brasserie menu offers continental inspired cuisine. Enjoy a varied selection of European influenced starters and salads, excellent beef, fresh seafood dishes and exquisite desserts. Their range of dessert wines, teas and gourmet coffees make a perfect end to a fantastic meal.
• Address: 160 Beach Rd, Strand, 7139
• Trading hours: Mon-Sat: 11:00-21:00; Sun: 11:00-20:00
• Contact: 021 853 3833

9. SCHOON – SOMERSET WEST

The SCHOON Café in Somerset West has done exactly what they intended it to, namely serving amazing bread, great food and specialty coffees in a warm, intimate atmosphere.

• What they offer: The seasonal menu includes the SCHOON classics like the much-beloved brioche French toast with roasted apple, brie, buchu syrup and clotted cream! It is the best for intimate breakfasts
• Address: 3 Bright St, Audas Estate, Somerset West, 7130
• Trading hours: Mon-Fri: 7:00-16:00; Sat-Sun: 8:00-15:00
• Contact: 079 523 5078

10. DRAMA FACTORY – STRAND

The Drama Factory is an intimate theatre space which provides quality entertainment to suit a wide variety of tastes.  As well as showcasing mainstream productions they also provide creatives with a workshop to manufacture performances. An assembly line for theatrical productions of all natures.

• What they offer: In their fully functional 90 seater, they provide an affordable space for quality entertainment for their audiences. From music to theatre to poetry and more, there is something for everyone. Patrons are welcome to bring their own tipple as they are not yet licensed, so they are happy to provide glasses.  Soft drinks, hot beverages and sweets are on sale.  All they ask is that you come and relax in this informal, intimate space.
• Address: 25 Comprop Sq, Strand, 7139
• Trading hours: Depending on shows
• Contact: 073 215 2290

By Brand, Z.