Robertson, Western Cape

The small country town of Robertson lies in the shadow of the majestic Langeberg Mountains and only a 90 minute leisurely drive from Cape Town. It is also the western gateway to the heart of Route 62, the longest Wine Route in the world which stretches from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth.

Robertson has become one of the most attractive Cape Windland towns with rows of yellow and red Cannas and brightly coloured Bougainvillea lining the roads outside wine estates, roses bordering vineyards and brilliant mauve Jacarandas shading the towns streets scattered with old Victorian buildings. Popular for more than just its beauty, Robertson is also renowned for its superior quality wines, roses and thoroughbred horses. Robertson is an officially recognized Wine of Origin region and the Capes largest wine producing region under irrigation, home to almost 50 wineries.

Outdoor activities to enjoy while visiting the scenic town are hiking trails, cycle routes through the town, skydiving, 4x4 trails, various sports, boat cruises and leisurely picnics in the surrounding nature reserves. Activities aplenty, wine and good food in abundance and the warm hospitality of the locals makes Robertson a perfect get-away destination!

The town offers all types of accommodation which includes, caravan and camping sites, self-catering chalets, bed and breakfasts, guest houses and hotels.

Places to Visit

Things to do and see

• Robertson Winery
• Rooiberg Winery
• Bon Cap Organic Wine Cellar
• DeWetshof Wine Estate
• Fraai Uitziicht 1798 Historic Wine Cellar
• Van Loveren Vineyards
• Rosendal Winery
• Viljoensdrift Wine Estate & Wine Cruise
• Klipdrift Distillery
• Olyfberg Olive Farm
• Olive Garden Country Estate
• Mabrin olive Farm
• Bird’s Paradise
• Pat Busch 4x4 Trail
• Robertson Historical Walks
• Robertson Art Gallery
• Silwerstrand Day Camp & Picnic Site
• Dassieshoek Nature Reserve
• Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve
• Arangieskop Hiking Trail
• Affie Plaas
• Robertson Farmers Market
• Sheilam Cactus Garden
• Robertson Golf Course

Climate

The area receives most its’ rainfall during the winter months of June, July and August.

Summer months, November to March will have average temperatures of between 17˚C and 30˚C.

Winter months, May to August will have average temperatures of between 4˚C and 15˚C.

Transport

There are daily domestic and international flights into Cape Town International Airport. Robertson is approximately 159 km away along the N1 and R60. Car rental companies are located at the Airport.

Festivals

February & March- Hands on Harvest Festival: A festival so successful that it had to be extended to over 2 months of festivities. Visitors over these 50 days can explore award winning wines and experience activities such as grape picking and stomping, vineyard safaris, blending and tasting, food and wine pairing, riverside lunches and plenty of family fun.

June – KykNet Wacky Wine Festival: Fine dining, outdoor adventures, live music and plenty of entertainment fun for the whole family.

August – Robertson Slow: Guests can look forward to dinners at the homes of our winemaking families, meet many winemakers and discuss wine pairing and tasting as well as other activities available such as boat cruises and hiking trails on the wine farm. The highlight of the weekend is the Sunday events at the Regional Food Market.

October – Wine on the River: The festival takes place on the Riverside Farm in Goudmyn between Robertson and Bonnievale. Come join for an extravaganza delicious treats, spectacular wines and fabulous music in the most picturesque setting one can find.

October – Robertson SKOU: A combined horse and agricultural show. Various horse shows and competitions, farm animals on show, plus wonderful food and company.

History

More and more farms were being started in the Breëde River area and so the need for a Church and a School became more evident. The Dutch Reformed Church purchased the van Zyl farm and the town of Robertson was founded in 1853. Robertson was named after the Dutch Reformed Minister, Dr. William Robertson.