Tulbagh Western Cape – Small Town, Big Heart

Tulbagh – Small Town, Big Heart

Last week I had the privilege of attending the Tulbagh Tourism AGM. I was invited to do a quick talk on social media to the Tourism Board members during the AGM. Normally I wouldn’t drive just over an hour to do a 15 minute talk BUT I had previous meet 3 of Tulbagh’s residents on one of my Social Media Marketing Courses, and based on their description of Tulbagh I had to see things for myself. So glad I did.

The AGM itself was held at Montpellier, I can’t really comment on the venue as by the time we arrived it was almost dark and we left after the meal and a few glasses of good red. Meting the tourism board members was an absolute pleasure, all the people we spoke to where 
passionate about their town and each had a wonderful offering. 

Our accommodation for the evening was the Tulbagh Hotel who had very kindly provided two rooms for me and my assistant Carol. The Tulbagh Hotel is situated on one of the two main roads and from the outside it has a distinct Dutch feel, however inside there are some big changes on the go. My room was one of the newly renovated bedrooms, called the Proetea Room. The room was very spacious with a king size bed, wood burner, and modern trimmings. There is a dressing area which leads into a huge bathroom area fitted with a shower big enough to throw a party in and a lovely big bath. After lighting said wood burner, Carol and I settled down to some work on our laptops and a glass or two of very yummy red wine from the area … (gift from the one of the AGM members)  

After a great night’s sleep we were treated to a well presented full English breakfast in the dining area, a large fire place was the central focus of the room with an oversized couch “very tempting” But the fine folk of Tulbagh had some treats in store for us. After a brief meeting we were off to Horse About for a morning ride. What a treat, the horses were well turned out ex polo ponies with comfy saddles and good tack. Our guide Jo had infinite patience with my lack of riding skills keeping the group motivated and safe. 

The views were to say the least spectacular, the valley seems to go on for eternity, all too soon we were back where we started and it was off to our next appointment at the one of a kind Readers Restaurant.
 Our host, Silwood trained Cordon Bleu Carol Collins prides herself on offering an international quality dining experience, and she certainly didn’t disappoint. My assistant Carol was smitten with her mussel and sweet potato soup starter, catering to my rather boring and unadventurous pallet for mains Chef Carol whipped up a selection of perfectly cooked and seasoned fillet steak medallions, roast potatoes, lamb filled phyllo parcels, (my favourite) crispy spring rolls and coated, fried  onions.  Chef Carol loves to combine unusual ingredients to produce unique dishes, such as wasabi ice cream and “one I have to try” Rack of lamb with asparagus, pernod and feta. Suddenly I was regretting eating such a large breakfast!

The restaurant has an adjoining gift shop “Curious Cats Gift Shop” which has a wonderful variety of cat themed gifts and local goodies. Readers Restaurant is the oldest building on Church Street and its friendly relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for a quick lunch time snack or a full blown three course meal from the ample menu.

 All good things come to an end and sadly this was our last stop in Tulbagh before we headed home to Cape Town. But there is one more thing I have to say about Tulbagh, I can honestly say I have never had so many warm hugs from so many genuine people, starting with Heidi, Liana and the wonderful lady at Tulbagh Hotel reception, (sorry didn’t get her name) Jo, Chef Carol and her awesome assistant chef Lisey, not forgetting mutual friend George proud owner of Prima Pizza. I strongly recommend to all of you over stressed South Africans, get down to Tulbagh and experience the warmth for yourself. Will I be back? Silly question - hell yes!