Autumn in the Swartland: harvest and golden light
The grape harvest, the first olives and soft, warm days in the valley.
Autumn in the Riebeek Valley, roughly from March to May, is a season many locals love most. The heat of summer fades, the light turns golden and the vineyards start to change colour.
It is a busy time on the farms. The grape harvest in the Swartland usually takes place in the first months of the year, and in autumn the cellars are full of activity as the new wines ferment. Olive harvesting also takes place in this period, and fresh olive oil starts appearing.
The weather is ideal for being outside: warm days, cool mornings and usually little rain until the winter begins. It is a perfect season for walking, cycling and long lunches on farm terraces.
There are fewer visitors than in spring and summer holidays, so tastings and restaurants are more relaxed.
At Huis Agt, one of the stays on this site, autumn evenings are made for the braai lounge and the deck. On cooler nights, the gas fireplace in Goud, the main house, makes the lounge cosy.
