Weekend in Tulbagh

It was one of my beautiful friends wedding in Tulbagh a few weekends ago. The last time I was in Tulbagh was 15 years ago. All I remember was that I ate a huge piece of chocolate cake :)


Wedding time at Morgansvlei

The beautiful bride

I was therefore very excited to venture into mostly unknown territory. Tulbagh has loads of wine farms around the town so naturally they were the main component of my weekend activities!

When you arrive in Tulbagh fetch a map at The Tulbagh Tourism Centre. The map is great and you can easily navigate the surroundings with it.  Alternatively these maps are available at the wine farms as well.


Saronsberg

Our first stop was at Saronsberg. You can't go to Tulbagh at not visit them as tasting their Shiraz is one of the top things to do! I mentioned to some friends that I was travelling to Tulbagh for the weekend and everyone started the conversation with " Oh but your must visit Saronsberg..." and I would interrupt and finish with " I know, I know to try the Shiraz." It has won numerous awards and truly is a great wine to drink.

Statue by Angus Taylor

Welcome to Saronsberg

Beautiful lawn to relax on

To top it all off the tasting venue is beautiful with loads of art you can admire. Our favourite pieces where the sculptures by Angus Taylor. I could have spent the entire afternoon at Saronsberg. You can lounge on their lovely lawn next to the dam with a glass of wine.

Art gallery upstairs

Elegant tasting room

Having an awesome time at the tasting room

Wine tasting is free and there are a lot of wines to taste. My favourites were the following

• Saronsberg Provenance Shiraz : I'm happy to report it lives up to its reputation.
• Saronsberg Seismic 2009: It's a bold and full bodied wine with cabernet sauvignon as the main variety which is probably why I loved it.
• Saronsburg Brut MCC 2009: I was surprised that this Brut actually had quite a sweetness to it that I really enjoyed.

The only wine I did not enjoy  was their Sauvignon Blanc. It seems that the reds are their forte. Saronsberg also offers accommodation with self-catering cottages and they only receive good reviews on Tripadvisor.

You can visit them

• Monday-Friday 08:00-17:00
• Saturday 10:00-14:00
• Closed on Sundays

Tweet them @Saronsberg_wine
Like them on Facebook
For more information visit their website


Krone @ Twee Jonge Gezellen

I love bubbly so I was very excited to enjoy a tasting of only that! I actually enjoyed a glass of the Krone Borelis the previous night while watching the Lumineers at Kirstenbosch so I could not wait to visit the birth place of the lovely bubbles. The tasting room overlooks the vineyards and it was lovely to sit outside underneath the vine leaves. Our wine tasting host was energetic and really friendly.

Beautiful surroundings

Cheers

Outside tasting area

We tasted the following MCC's

• Krone Borealis Brut 2013 - This I would describe as your everyday bubbly :) I has the lovely biscuity/creamy taste.
• Krone Rose (Cuvee Brut) 2013 - This MCC has a beautiful pink colour and lovely apple notes. Serving this bubbles at a party would definitely make a statement.
• Krone Night Nectar (Demi Sec) 2013 -  This was my favourite! It was sweet but at the same time very refreshing.
• Krone Chardonnay Pinot Noir - Not a bubbly but also a great easy drinking wine.

Krone

My purchase of the day!

You can visit them

•  Monday-Friday 10:00-16:00
• Saturday 10:00-14:00 and the cellar tour is at 11:00

Like them on Facebook
Tweet them @houseofkrone
For more information visit their website

Other wine farms in the area that I did not get to but will in the future were Montpellier, Theuniskraal and Waverley Hills .

Tulbagh has loads of accommodation to choose from. We stayed at Rijks Country House which is situated 2 km outside of Tulbagh. You can also enjoy wine-tasting here. It's a beautiful estate where you can walk around and enjoy the surroundings. Service is impeccable and the rooms are equipped with more than you need. My favourite part of our visit was lounging next to the pool with a G&T. We made our booking through Booking.com who has great deals!

Does not get better than this!



Perfect way to relax!



Cottages at Rijks



Rooms at Rijks



Pool area


We spent most of our time outside of Tulbagh but if you have time you can enjoy the museums about the famous earthquake, watch a show at the Saronsberg Theatre or wine and dine at numerous restaurants. A place that looked awesome from outside was Things I Love.

As you can see to enjoy the small-town gem that Tulbagh is you will need at least two weekends away :) I will definitely be back!

Equus at Cavalli Estate

Equus at Cavalli estate

The Cavalli Estate is an extremely pleasant environment. When you leave this establishment you will feel refreshed. They have exceptional service from the wine tatsing area through to the restaurant. Cavalli translate from Italian to English as "The horses". As you drive down the road that leads  to the restaurant you will observe on your left the beautifull horses and top of the range stables.


The Cavalli estate will not only entertain you with delicious food and wine but also an art gallery, memorabilia room and fashion boutique to browse at.


Wine tatsing takes place at the bottom floor of the restaurant. It's a very modern space with massive fridges where the wines are stored. For R30 you taste six wines. If you spend more than a R100 the fee is wavered. Wines start from R45. We loved the Black Beauty shiraz. I usually prefer a merlot to a shiraz as it's a less intense wine to drink, but Cavalli's Shiraz was a winner. I also loved the labels they use on their wine, simple but striking.

Love the wine labels. 

Wine tasting area

Next head to the memorabilia rooms that  host items such as a 1906 Springbok rugby jacket, an Arsenal signed football, guitars signed by U2 and The Rolling Stones and much more. Sports and music enthusiast will at least need a hour to appreciate this impressive collection.

A jacket that dates back to 1906. The year the Springboks were established. I am feeling very chuffed with all my new rugby knowledge :)

Kid in a candy store!

There is something for the music lovers too!

The Art gallery next door will also be appreciate by all art lovers. The pieces range from well known Pierneef paintings to modern day sculptures. This is a great spot to come and walk around after a very delicious lunch upstairs.

What lies beneath is the current exhibition.

My favourite piece!

Something for everyone

A range of classic and modern art pieces

Now to get to the beautifull space upstairs. The Equus restaurant is established as an eco-friendly restaurant that serves classics in a contemporary way. During the week they serve bistro lunches and at night they host fine dining evenings.

Surrounded by beautiful mother nature

A spot on the patio is a must. You can't book for the patio so arrive early!

Feeling spoiled!

Inside

If you want to enjoy the fine dining option then starters will be between R85-R130, mains R150-R160 and dessert R60-R80.


We went for the more relaxed bistro lunch as we wanted to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and utilise their incredible patio overlooking the eco-system friendly dam that warms and cools the stunning space.


Our dining experience was started with complimentary sundried tomato and walnut bread served with a red wine infused butter.

Great start to the meal

We then ordered some cocktails. As we already did the wine tasting earlier we wanted to experience something different. I had the most refreshing cocktail made with vodka, fresh watermelon ,passionfruit, fructose and lime served over ice. It's called "The Pincushion"(R60) and I could have indulged in ten of them. The boyfriend was recommended a more manly cocktail named "Jackal Buzzurd Julep"(R70). This is made with fresh Rooibos ice tea, cognac, Rooibos sugar syrup, Peychards bitters and mint. If you are not interested in dining here I would still come for  a delicious cocktail, sit in their fire pit and enjoy the majestic surroundings.

The pincushion

The Jackal

For mains we enjoyed the succulent porkbelly(R95) and rib-eye steak(R110). Miso-glazed aubergine(R85),  sous-vide chicken breast(R90) and grilled fish of the day(R95) were the others to choose from. The porkbelly was cook to perfection and melted in my mouth. I also loved the rib-eye steak. The boyfriend said that it was a bit tough for him but I disagreed. You could easily cut it with a normal knife.


All mains are served with the same side-dishes of beetroot, button mushroom, onion cup, oat crumble and potatoes du jour. This is still something I can't warp my head around as all the components were delicious but some I would not have paired with the main dish. The mushroom puree did not go with my porkbelly but it complimented the rib-eye steak. I expected that each dish will have different components that compliment them but I assume this is the norm with the bistro lunches. The food however was still delicious and this is one of the places that I would love to return to as soon as possible.

Rib-eye

Porkbelly

For dessert we shared malva pudding served with ice-cream, custard and topped with crumbled
rocky road chunks. This was a dessert right up my alley, chocolaty and very sweet.

Sweet ending...

Great news is that they are currently running a winter special...

• Two course R200
• Three course R280

... so utilities this great dining opportunity or go for an excellent wine tasting experience. Cavalli is one of my favourites so far this year!

When to visit:

• Wednesday-Saturday afternoon: Bistro lunches
• Wednesday-Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon: Fine dining

For more information visit their website
Visit them at Strand road(R44). Situated on the road between Stellenbosch and Somerset-West across from Eikendal
Contact them at 021 855 3218 or restaurant@cavalliestate.com
Like them on  Facebook

Boeresjeik

Boeresjeik is located in the industrial area of Brackenfell. Initially I did not have any expectation and when we stopped outside it looked like an ordinary office space. We then opened the door and were transported to a very French inspired sjeik space...

 

I was actually only there for some tea and cake but the beauty of the décor swept me away and first I had to browse around and admire all the art, jewellery, décor, clothing  and antiques. This is a great place to shop for a gift for a loved one. The price range of the items are also wide so it will fit most wallets :)

The space will keep you busy for a long time. So much to see!

Table fit for a high tea

Beautiful chandeliers

Coffee/tea and a slice of cake will cost you only R50. We enjoyed a slice of vanilla as well as carrot cake. You rarely see vanilla cake in coffee shops nowadays and the one at Boeresjeik was delicious. Other cakes to look forward to are red velvet, red velvet cheesecake, chocolate cake as well as a selection of different cupcakes. The savoury lovers can enjoy chicken&broccoli, mushroom&bacon, blue cheese&pear&cheese, butternut&feta or spinach&feta quiche for R28 a slice. A salad can be added to that for R17.

 

The also cater for functions with the following options

• R 65 for tea or coffee plus a choice of either 1 slice of cake or quiche
• R 90 for tea or coffee plus a choice of 2 slices of cake/quiche
• R 90 for tea or coffee plus a choice of 2 slices of cake/quiche

The only negative thing was that one of the ladies of the shop was very rude to us while we were taking pictures. I especially looked for a no-picture signs as they usually are present in décor shops. We were told that we can only take photos if we buy something. It  was said in a condescending tone and I felt a bit uncomfortable after that. I told her I wanted to feature them on my blog and she just smirked. That's why pictures are limited on this post.

 I usually only publish positive reviews and if I don't like the place I don't write about them but Boeresjeik was still a fantastic gem in Brackenfell that is a must visit!
 
The rest of the staff of Boersjeik were fantastic especially the ladies at the coffee shop.

Open Monday to Friday 09:00-17:00 and Saturday 09:00 - 14:00
Located at 12 Kiewet street, Okavango Park, Brackenfell
Contact them at 021 982 2023
Visit their website for more information

A morning in Woodstock

 

I associate Woodstock with The Old Biscuit Mill, but recently  discovered that this area has much more to offer.

I started my morning at The Woostock Exchange ! Here are some of the gems I discovered  accompanied by my friend Christine!

Superette

 We started our morning at Superette. This is such a cool space. Outside it looks like a construction site but inside there are pops of yellow all around with plants hanging from the ceiling and ample seating to accommodate everyone.

Pops of yellow everywhere brightens up the grey space

Come for a great place to work at or enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch

On the table the flowers are set in "chemistry" vases and even the sugar occupies smaller "chemistry pots". The space is filled with design elements contrasting each other and actually difficult to explain to you, so come and check it out.

 

The majority of the menu consist of "something" paired with different types of bread. I had the sour dough toast paired with sauteed mushrooms served with sour cream and lemon dressed greens(R40) .Christine chose the "childlike" egg and soldiers (R35). My mushrooms were so well seasoned that for breakfast I could have had just a bowel of that! Five thumbs up! Christine also enjoyed her breakfast and we were very amused by the egg cutter they gave with the dish that you use to open the top part of the egg.

Egg and soldiers

Mushrooms and toast

Great ceramics for sale

 

I will also recommend you visit for lunch, as there were very yummy sandwiches which caught my eye, such as slow roasted pork belly cooked in butter and thyme served with rocket, caramelised onion and honey roasted apples on sourdough bread(R55).

They also cater for your sweet tooth with a peanut butter chocolate cheesecake served with ice cream and berries (R35) !

The food is served on awesome ceramic plates with messages on them and they are also for sale in the restaurant. Breads, wine, cookies and preserves are always something extra to look into.

You can come here to gather with friends or to do some work as there were numerous clients on their computers. There even was a magician that came for a interview with prospective clients. What more do you want in the morning than breakfast and a free magic show?

The waiters are super nice and not dedicated to one table each so someone is always there to help you.
The building in which Superette is,  The Woodstock exchange,  also houses loads of different shops and other coffee shops and below I have mentioned a few.

Located at 66 Albert Road, Woodstock
Open Monday to Friday 08:00 - 15:00 & Saturdays 08:00 - 14:00
Contact them at info@superette.co.za or 021 802 5525
Like them on Facebook
Visit their website


Lady Bonin Tea Parlour

Beautiful tasting area

 

We visited Lady Bonin Tea Parlour as I wanted to purchase some tea. My flatmate gave me a beautiful glass teapot for my birthday and I have not brewed tea in it. I chose some chamomile tea, as I  know it's known for its calming effect, and sometimes I seriously need a sedative before a test ;)The shop assistant was awesome and explained the different teas to us. She also allowed us to smell everything to see what we like. You can do a tea tasting here where 3 teas will cost you R100. There currently is a special on Groupon where you can purchase a voucher allowing you to do the tea tasting for R100 for two people!

 

My chamomile tea was R60 for 50 grams

 

Visit them at Shop AG11b at The Woodstck Exchange

Contact them at ladybonon@gmail.com or 083 628 2504

Like them on Facebook

Visit their website

Chapel
I've been looking for a backpack for ages to use in the hospital but I could not find anything that is practical but also pretty. Luckily I saw these pretty bags!

 

I love the leather straps! My biggest concern is that I need a big enough space to carry all my books, gadgets and snacks in it when I go to the hospital! I am currently using a one shoulder bag and I will definitely develop a hunchback if I don't intervene soon.  The bags above are the "Ride bags" and have a big central compartment that is also closed with a zip. My biggest choice now is what colour??  Help me choose :) 

 

 

An interesting fact about Chapel is that they started the business as they could not find bags they like in South-Africa they could use when they are travelling around on their bikes! Currently they have expanded  from the "ride bags" to   leather overnight bags, book-bags and technical accessories! 

 



Contact them at info@chapelgoods.co.za or 021 827  0258

For more options check out their website

 

 

Some more picture from The Woodstock Exchange

The passages of The Woodstock Exchange are decorated with interesting design elements. There are also art galleries to go and check out!

These shoes I have seen at most markets and are available at The Woodstock Exchange.

Some original reading and sunglasses!

In the mood for decorating....

The Starling and Hero Bicycle Café is also available for some breakfast or lunch!

 

Come in for breakfast and maybe leave with a bicycle!

 

After our visit to The Woodstock Exchange we did head down to The Old Biscuit Mill to go and look at the shops there and here are some of the cool treasures we found...

 

Abode

 

Abode was one of my favourite discoveries! There are loads of original décor pieces. I especially loved all the different bunnies they had as I do have a bit of a obsession with them. What I also liked about the shop is that there are affordable as well as expensive pieces in the shop making it a place to shop for all!



I have been stalking these bunnies at a few shops now...

 

They have loads of lighting pieces and wall art

Something maybe for my practice one day

Loved this lamp!

Loads of lamps to choose from

Looks like test-tubes are making their comeback!

 



 

Located at shop 140E at The Old Biscuit Mill

Contact them at info@abode.co.za or 072 261 3540

Open Weekdays 10:00-16:00 & Saturdays 09:00-14:00

Visit their website

 

 

Quirky Me

 

Another gem at The Old Biscuitmill! I could have left this shop with bags full of goodies. I discovered my favourite turquoise bunny here. Planning a visit to go back and buy him! Have a serious case of buyers regret!

 

Quirky me also offers a gift service for those days when you cant get to a shop but need a gift ASAP. They wrap and deliver the gift for you. Check out the catalogue on their website.

Tea towels(R80)  to your left and place mats to your right.

Cute cookie cutters

My favourite bunny!

 

Located next to Abode at The  Old Biscuitmill

Open Weekdays 10:00-16:00 & Saturdays 09:00-14:00

Visit their website

Contact Ingrid at 082 417 1885

 

 

Mu & Me

A few years ago I bought a very nice pencil case from Mu and Me . During my recent visit I've seen that they have expanded the brand more and now you can even buy cake decorations as well as children clothing.

 

The bottles filled with sweeties retails for R149

Beautiful notebooks

Interesting stationary

Visit their  website for more information.

Located at The Old Biscuit Mill next to Quirky me

 

 

Other finds at some of the other shops...

 

Bunnies :) 

Balsamic and olive oil bottle (R65) my purchase of the day :)

 

Water jugs for only R40!

Loads of scarves to choose from!

 

So as you can see there is more to Woodstock than The Old Biscuitmill BUT that there is still some great places to visit there as well during the week.

 

What other Woodstock discoveries can you tell me about???