The national road known as the N2 is one of the most beautiful tourism routes in the Western Cape and is travelled by thousands of both local and international tourists each year. On our recent work trip up to Knysna, we rounded up a recommended list of the top farm stalls along the N2 that are well worth a stop to revitalise, refresh, and regroup for the next stage of your journey ahead.
1. Peregrine Farm Stall, Grabouw
Peregrine Farm Stall is a charming roadside stop in Grabouw, in the picturesque Elgin Valley. While in apple country, be sure to stop off at this charming stall known for its fresh farm produce and warm country hospitality, and be sure to taste their freshly squeezed, pure apple juice or freshly brewed coffee. In addition to the farm stall, there is also the Red Tractor Café; a vibrant eatery characterised by black and white chequered floors and indoor and outdoor tables covered in red tablecloths. Read our full review.
Peregrine Farm Stall is open from 07h30 – 18h00 in winter, and 07h30 – 18h30 in summer. The Red Tractor Cafe is open from 07h30 – early evening (kitchen closes at 17h00). Contact +27 (0)21 848 9011.
2. Houw Hoek Farm Stall, Elgin
The Houw Hoek Farm Stall is located just before the Houw Hoek Pass, about an hour from Cape Town. Located in the apple growing Elgin Valley, this quaint green and white farm stall is not to be missed if you have the time. The stall is surrounded by perfumed seasonal roses and stocked with fresh home-made quality items, such as freshly baked pies, biscuits, cakes, and bread. You can also pick up some local wines, fruit, and vegetables from the farms in the Elgin Valley. If your journey has built up an appetite, sit down in the coffee shop and enjoy a meal in the picturesque country setting, with options like egg benedict, unique salad combinations, and even fresh fish from the nearby Overberg shores. If you’re stopping over for a longer period of time, you can tackle some Rainbow Trout fishing in one of the 3 dams. Rods are available to rent and you pay for what you catch by the kilogram. Picnic baskets are also available.
Houw Hoek is open from 07h30 – 17h30 Monday – Sunday. Contact +27 (0)28 284 9015 or email [email protected]
3. Die Ou Tronk, Riversdale
Die Ou Tronk is quite aptly named as it is, in fact, located in an old jail in Riversdale. This charming building houses a farmer’s market and coffee shop that hardly ever fails to attract travellers from the N2. Inside, you will find a high walled courtyard filled with shady fruit trees and wooden benches where you can enjoy the charm of the beautiful old jail and fill your empty bellies with refreshments and snacks (the carrot cake is definitely recommended). In winter, a crackling fireplace is lit inside. The walls and rooms of the jail still bear reference to their previous practice, but are now filled with potted plants, hanging wirework, china tea sets, pottery items, a giant cross, local paintings, and benches to rest your weary feet. Browse the arts and crafts, antiques, and gifts on offer, and pick up some pickles and preserves to take home with you. The old gallows remain locked away, but if you have a liking for the gruesome, you can ask for it to be opened for you.
Die Ou Tronk is open for breakfast, lunch, coffee, and drinks, from 08h30 – 17h00 Monday to Friday, and 08h30 – 13h00 on Saturdays. Contact +27 (0)28 713 4300 or email [email protected]
4. Blue Crane Farm Stall, Heidelberg
You will likely notice Heidelberg’s Blue Crane Farm Stall well in advance by its distinctive blue roof. Inside, you will find shelves of bottles, offering jellies, preserves, jams, fresh fruit, and more. The coffee shop offers warm pink walls and display cabinets full of old dolls. There is an outdoor courtyard where you sit down amongst the greenery and order a range of light meals – and it also has a play area and menu for the kids! Whether you want to try some specialty home bakes or pick up some biltong and dried fruit for the road, this farm stall is well equipped for you.
The Blue Crane Farm Stall is open from 08h00 – 17h00, 7 days a week. Contact +27 (0)28 722-2651
5. Scarab Village, Sedgefield
Scarab Village is a one stop arts and craft market in Sedgefield. It boasts a permanent Scarab Paper and Craft Centre, a Saturday Craft Market, a bistro style atmosphere, and the Red Roof function venue. Browse the homemade cheeses, wooden art pieces, oil paintings, arts and crafts, jewellery, and paper made from elephant dung, or grab a bite to eat at the café. There is a playground for kids to let off any excess energy and the restrooms are very clean.
The Saturday Craft Market is open from 08h30 – 12h30 every Saturday. Contact +27 (0)44 343 2455 or email [email protected]
What farm stalls do you enjoy stopping at along the N2?
