Charming rose-bedecked stone cottages
Wild Fig House, with its charming Vlei Cottage, encapsulates a vintage storybook exterior with curated art-laden contemporary interiors in glorious Greyton.
Greyton’s Cape country charm reminds many of us of a quaint English village, complete with the pub, leafy lanes and pretty gardens. But there’s much more to this much-loved Overberg gem surrounded by rolling farmlands and bordered by the spectacular Riviersonderend mountain range. Weekenders come for its village atmosphere, mountain bikers and trail runners come for its challenging country routes through wild, scented fynbos and hikers head into the mountains, enjoying deep tea-coloured pools along the way. Others come for the peace and quiet of a country retreat and there’s no better place to escape than to the Wild Fig.
Behind ancient stone walls, its wonderfully shaded garden, lush lawn and pool area is surrounded by wild grasses and abundant lemon trees laden with summer fruit – the most glorious retreat in sizzling summers. Every window and door of this beautifully restored farmhouse and the equally glorious adjacent Vlei cottage open to this leafy oasis with sunshine streaming in the living areas and generous kitchen. A warm and welcoming space where friends come together to chop, chat and cook. Lunches are laid-back, siestas are restorative, and by late afternoon –come rain or shine – this close community comes out to walk, some stopping for an early dinner at Greyton’s cafes and restaurants. Others enjoy sundowners from their own private garden, light the fire, and create delicious country meals together after a day spent exploring.
Late lie-ins are de rigueur here, although some may be tempted to rise at dawn and head out for a jog or walk along the river where gentle mists slowly give way to the warmth of the morning while horses graze on fresh green grass. There’s nothing quite like the fresh country air to start the day, but on returning to the village hub, the scent of coffee from sidewalk cafes is irresistible.
A picture-perfect country affair
As you pack the car to reluctantly return home, Greyton will have you vowing to return time and again – as many Capetonians and visitors do when smitten by its relaxed, stress-free and balanced community. That’s why you’ll love retreating to the Wild Fig: it’s a positive and affirming space that envelops you in a comforting country balm, away from the rest of the world and focused only on giving you the chance to restore your energy levels to return to the city invigorated and refreshed.
What we love!
• Greyton’s village charm and easy access: we love that it’s so quick to travel to on a Friday afternoon and stretch the weekend to give you time to reconnect with family and loved ones.
• Leafy lanes, pretty gardens, Cape vernacular architecture, lei water (an historic irrigation system of street furrows still operates today) and a laid-back lifestyle.
• Dropping in at little cafes and restaurants to enjoy slow breakfasts or lunch, not to mention the art galleries, boutiques, locally brewed craft beer and artisanal offerings. Don’t miss the Saturday morning market.
• Nearby walks and trails (Greyton to McGregor or Boesmanskloof Trail being a popular one – 28 kms return).
What you need to know…
• It’s best to stock up on food before you leave, as there are no major supermarkets here but you can pop into the shopping mall in Caledon, just off the N2. It has practically everything you’ll need. Or you can stop at the Peregrine Farm Stall at the top of Sir Lowry’s Pass in Grabouw.
• Greyton hosts several events during the year so it’s advisable to book ahead. Wine, beer, art and music festivals, plus trail running and mountain biking events, fill the calendar
• Expect country service and a nourishing meal wherever you go, not stand-out foodie experiences. Favourites are Heart & Soul or Pure Vegetarian Café, Deli and Store for an early breakfast or a late brunch, with their healthy menus. At night, Abbey Rose or Rupert’s Bistro (owner’s favourite) are good to try.
• The neighbouring village of Genadendal is worth a visit: it’s the site of the oldest Moravian mission village in Africa, founded in 1738.
Original Author: Michelle Snaddon
Updated: Julie Ragavelas
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