The journey to Robertson is prettier than ever now that the roadsides are strewn with Spring flowers. Your destination in the handsome 150-year old country town is The Robertson Small Hotel – a Victorian country gem looking gorgeously spruce of shades of pale grey and white. It’s just perfect for a cosy couple slip-away, an anniversary or a weekend spoil.
Choose a Luxury or Deluxe Suite in the characterful Manor House, or a Stable Suite with its own garden-facing patio, or treat yourself to a stay in one of the Pool Suites – these open out onto their own lounging decks, with daybeds and table-and-chairs right beside the pool.
Reuben’s at the Robertson – the inspiration of concept-chef Rueben Riffel – is bistro-dining at its best. It’s an intimate, casual-chic eating-space that spills out onto a courtyard, with an eclectic menu that changes from month to month and features fine local and seasonal produce.
There’s plenty to do in the area. We spent a fabulous hour on the Breede River with Viljoensdrift River Cruises & Picnics, and it was an instant stress-shedder and gearing-down to the slower tempo of life in the country. Choose your own picnic goodies in their deli to enjoy on the boat – we had ours up on the upper deck with fabulously serene views of the river and a pair of electric-blue swallows swooping down around the boat.
To book a cruise: call Viljoensdrift River Cruises & Picnics on 023 6151017 . Find them on the R317 between Robertson and Bonnievale. They offer wine tastings and 1-hour boat cruises, which usually start at 12h00. Picnics are obtainable from their deli.
Wine-lovers, at Robertson you’ll be in your element. The Robertson Wine Route features some top favourites, among them Robertson Winery, Van Loveren, Bon Courage, Langeberg Winery, Springfield, Roodezandt, Rooiberg Co-operative Wine Cellar, Graham Beck Wines, De Wetshof and Clairvaux.
Other things to do in the area include river rafting, skydiving, birding routes, hiking, horse riding, golf, brandy tours and game drives. More information.
Visit the Eseltjierus Donkey Sanctuary just outside neighbouring McGregor, where you can make a donation towards the safe care of donkeys recued from situations of negelect and misuse.
Mail us to book accommodation, or call 0860 102 907 or +27 21 797-7122.
