TULBAGH

Tulbagh lies in a small valley surrounded by the Winterhoek, Witzenberg and Obiqua mountains with the Klein Berg River running alongside. It is the fourth oldest town in South Africa (after Cape Town, Stellenbosch and Swellendam). The town was named after Rijk Tulbagh - Governor of the Cape Colony from 1751 to 1771 – and its main road boasts 32 National Monuments, more than any other street in South Africa. Rijk's Country House is the perfect base from which to explore the Tulbagh Valley and surrounding Winelands. A wide variety of activities from adrenalin seeking sports to leisurely activities can be arranged by our reception staff.

Tulbagh has a little something for everyone. There are numerous festivals held throughout the year. The most well-known is Christmas in Winter, which is held during the last weekend of June each year.

Activities in the Tulbagh Valley:

Historic Church Street – Boasts 32 National Monuments, the most monuments in one street within South Africa, has been restored to its former glory after the 1969 earthquake. There are also beautiful gardens to enjoy.

Museums – Wonder through the Earthquake Museum and see what damage was done to Tulbagh during the devastating earthquake in 1969 and how the town has recovered. The Oude Kerk is the oldest surviving congregation in South Africa, with period furniture, it is a must. The Victorian House – browse through a house from the Victorian Era. Cape Dutch Manor – Have a look into what life was like way back. The Oude Drosty is another magnificent museum to visit, hosting the large collection of gramophones. It was originally built as the local court house.

Wine Estates – Tulbagh has a wonderful array of award winning wineries to choose from. You can remain on the estate and enjoy Rijks Private Cellar wines or venture off to other wineries which include Saronsberg, Twee Jonge Gezellen, Lemberg, Montpellier, Waverley Hills, Tulbagh Winery and Drosty Hof.

Olives – Enrich you palate with an olive and olive oil tasting at Oakhurst Olives

Horse Riding – Horse About provides wonderful rides out in the valley. Whether you are a novice rider or a beginner, they have a horse for you.

Ceres Zipslide – This is a great adrenalin activity. Fly through the air on a zipslide. This is a great activity for the whole family and groups.

Mountain Biking – Tulbagh boast some wonderful mountain biking routes. Permits can be obtained from the tourism office in town. Mountain bikes can be hired daily.

Waterfall – Take a short hike and enjoy a swim in the rock pools of the waterfall. Sunscreen is recommended.

Bird Watching – There is an array of avian bird life in the valley

Photographic Tours – This is great way to see Tulbagh from a different view.

Hiking – Tulbagh offers numerous hiking trails. One of the favourites is the Murludi Trails.

Golf – Ceres Golf Course is a mere 20 minutes away. Other golf courses within a 45 minute drive of Tulbagh include Worcester, Wellington and Malmesbury.

Saronsberg Theatre – This theatre located in Van Der Stel Street and showcases local talent from around South Africa.

Art Route – Tulbagh is blessed to have a rich art community living in it.

Country Shopping – The Tulbagh Valley has numerous shops offering the best that country life has to offer such as honey, artisanal cheeses, etc.

Market – On the first Saturday of the month there is a market held in Tulbagh and on the second Saturday of the month there is a market held in Wolsley. This is a great place to meet the locals and try the local flavours and purchase crafts.

Day Trips – Tulbagh is a wonderful base to explore the Boland Wine Area, West Coast, Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschoek.