Robert de Vivo’s favourite places and things to do

1 Outdoors The Kasteelberg mountains offer many outdoor activities. You are likely to hear and see baboons and, if you are lucky, a rooikat. The challenge is to get to the top, with all routes requiring a good level of fitness and agility. 0224481545 Mountain biking is served by a network of farm roads. Round the Kasteelberg is the top choice – about 29km with two main climbs, one on gravel and another on tar. 0224481545. The bird life is prolific with more than 250 species including paradise flycatchers, gymnogenes, black eagles, sun birds and many more. For the less energetic, the large plots make gardening a sufficiently active pastime. Check Riebeek Valley Garden Centre for ideas. 022 461 2002 2 Eat Old Dalby on Main Road, run by chef Jaco, offers excellent food at good prices. Their ice cream is yummy. 0224612012. Angie’s Coffee Shop is where locals solve the world’s problems over coffee, beer or glass of wine. Unpretentious food, good value and always some company. 0224612080 3 Drink Ideal for a sundowner in the garden and a meal is the Riebeek Valley Country Retreat. A B&B with a relaxed feel, views over the vineyards and Kasteelberg mountains. 0224612672. The town is bracketed by two wine cellars – Pulpit Rock (0224612025) and Allesverloren (022 461 2320). They offer wine tastings and direct sales. 4 Shop For almost 19 years, the market takes place on the second Saturday of each month. Under shady trees a range of crafts, homemade eats, soap, honey, orange juice, plants and more are available. Agrimark is an emporium which makes you feel you are a farmer/builder/gardener. 022 461 8260

The Kasteelberg mountains offer fit and agile climbers a good workout.