Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
RIPE FOR THE PERFECT PICKS
This gateway to lands of wine and roses, almost equidistant from Cape Town to the West Coast on Route 62, still provides an opportunity to find a large family home with garden for under R2.5 million
ROBERTSON, situated on the R62 and the gateway to the world’s longest wine route, is the largest town in the Langeberg municipal area and home to more than 50 wineries, giving credence to its reputation for being one of the country’s largest wine-producing areas.
Agriculture and agri-processing are the real economic drivers in the region, but tourism is rapidly growing thanks to its proximity to Cape Town – a scenic 90-minute drive on excellent highways.
In fact, you would be forgiven for feeling as if you had stepped through Lewis Carroll’s Through the
Looking Glass when visiting Robertson: from the oversized chair at Rooiberg Winery – the largest in Africa – to the underground cellar
at Weltevrede; there’s something enchanting and engaging about the area.
Rich with possibility, ripe for the picking, there’s something for everyone in the valley of wine, olives, roses and art. And there’s a river running through it; the Breede on its way to the Indian Ocean.
“Robertson has a small-town feel, while still being energetic and vibrant,” says resident Fanus Bruwer. “It seems to be constantly growing. We are just about in the middle point of the Western Cape. Cape Town and the West Coast are each about two hours away, with Hermanus and other southern Cape coastal towns even closer.”
Appreciated for its warm hospitality, Robertson is becoming a popular family destination for its laid-back lifestyle and good schools and medical care.
“It’s still possible to buy a family home, with a large garden, for under R2.5 million,” says Annien Borg, Pam Golding Properties managing director for the Boland and Overberg.
“With increased demand for homes, the town is growing. Within the next few months Robertson will have its own private hospital and a retirement village.
“Consequently, property prices are rising.
“However, the town still offers value for money, appealing to a wide range of buyers.”
A home in Church Street sold for R3.285m; an 8 565m² portion of the Farm Langverwacht for R900 000. Most properties are freehold, or within estates.
Prices range from R725 000 to upwards of R3.75m for a luxury, three-bedroom home; a plot from R265 000. Many properties could be adapted for use as a guest house.
Farms or smallholdings are also available.
“Robertson has much to offer. Aside from natural beauty, horse riding trails, rafting on the Breede, mountain bike and trail running opportunities plus various walking routes abound.”
It’s also home to a skydiving school for adrenalin junkies.
“The town’s proximity to Cape Town makes it ideal for a weekend getaway and events such as the Wacky Wine Weekend attract visitors to enjoy the food and wines on offer.”