It’s not often that I get to run away for a weekend-despite what you may see on the blog.
It takes careful planning and with the uncertainty of my day job often dates change moments before and the local (less than 400km) vacation has to be moved where possible and often cancelled.
Luckily enough we were able to keep our dates for Tulbagh. When I head somewhere new, I become the travel version of “bride-zilla” I google maps the places and accessible towns nearby I visit various blogs and of course have a few on a list of my own that I have always wanted to visit.
This historic town boasts South Africa’s biggest cluster of Cape Dutch, Edwardian and Victorian provincial heritage buildings on any one street (Church St). The craft and gift shops are ideal for browsing, and there are a number of quaint restaurants in the town. Tulbagh was the site of the country’s most significant earthquake in 1969, after which an extensive and highly successful restoration project allowed the village to retain its historic feel.
On my list of must travel to in Tulbagh were:
Krone MCC at Twee Jonge Gezellen
The large open-air lawned area is perfect for a warmer summer’s day or a cheeky smile from Spring morning as when we visited. This Tulbagh estate produces five Methode Cap Classiques and a “Champagne” traditional still wine a delicate Chardonnay-Pinot Noir blend.
We loved “The Phoenix” a memorable release in that the farm combines three of their best vintages. With an incredible biscuit bouquet and moorish cream mousse we had to have a bottle for home to reminisce the lazy start to our morning’s adventures in this tiny town.
RELATED POST: A LOOK INSIDE: NEW TWEE JONGE GEZELLEN TASTING DECK
Saronberg Wine estate (& Gallery)
Named after the Saronberg Mountain that boldy watches over the estate. Saronsberg Cellar was originally part of the farm we visited earlier that morning Twee Jonge Gezellen and only recently started producing wine with the first vintage being in 2004 following devastating fires and an earlier earthquake back in the 60s.
Being greeted by bold sculptured pieces of art means that wine tasting takes a little longer to meander and explore as there is a full on site gallery with an extensive collection of contemporary pieces by some of South Africa’s greatest creatives. 
Tulbagh’s Historic Church Street
This is the “town”. A singular historic street that is home to farm styled stores that show case local produce and homemade crafts and home decor items. From cafes to country houses & hotels you are bound to find a beautiful outdoorsy spot for a leisurely breakfast or a light farm style lunch.
If you’re looking for something sweet in Tulbagh there’s a chocolate making factory in a little store that sells arts crafts and of course the delicious home made chocolates.
Laden with Museums this fourth oldest town in South Africa pays respects to the historic values of the town, it’s architecture and those who lost their lives in natural disasters such as the largest South African earth quake in history.
Accommodation in Tulbagh
Raptor Rise is situated on a private farm with four self-catering cottages and a swimming pool just walking distance from Church Street and the wineries we visited.
The perfect getaway accommodation that is a little in the country but close enough to quickly drive to neighboring tourist attractions as well as the highway.
Small Flat with a queen size extra length bed, private covered patio, shower/bath and toilet en suite. Small kitchen equipped with a fridge, microwave, sink, toaster, crockery and cutlery.
- Weber BBQ
- Communal pool
- Free WIFI
See more about our stay in the stable style cottages here: Raptor Rise-Self Catering Accommodation
If we have left out your favorite places to visit, an interesting wine farm or best accommodation please get in touch in the comments section below. We would love to hear from you!
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For more information on things to do in Tulbagh and where to stay visit: http://www.tulbaghtourism.co.za/
