Napier, founded in 1838, is a typical Overberg farming village, with a beautiful Dutch Reformed Church as the centrepiece, century-old cottages and a charming rural atmosphere. It is surrounded by rolling fields of wheat, oats, barley and canola – dotted with sheep and dairy cattle, as well as the endangered blue crane.
From late winter to early spring, the hills shimmer with a patchwork of golden flowers and emerald green fields, one of the most beautiful sights in the country. More recently, vines and olives have been planted, and Napier is proud of its wine of origin.
Napier is rated by the Tourism Board as the fourth most attractive village of the Western Cape, after Montagu, Greyton and McGregor, all of which are within an easy drive of Napier itself. It is not just the beauty and central location of Napier that has encouraged a flock of city dwellers and foreigners to move in, but the village itself, with its friendly locals.
In addition, Napier is only 16 minutes’ drive from Bredasdorp, 30 minutes’ drive from Arniston, De Mond and the missionary village of Elim, which has been declared a national monument, in its entirety.
It is only 45 minutes’ to Cape Agulhas, the Southern-most tip of Africa. Hermanus, a popular seaside town is 70km away and De Hoop Nature Reserve is 63kms – both of these places are famous for the southern right whale between July and November. And to round off the day, take a drive to Struisbaai for Calamari Strips and Chips as the sun sets.
Walk along the main road and browse Rose Boats & Toy Museum, a delightful experience for kids and parents alike, the toy museum is home to a wonderful collection of old toys and trains; the All Sorts military museum, an astonishing collection of military memorabilia; antique shops, local galleries and collector’s shops.
Some other attractions are the old watermill, an ox Wagon monument (Kakebeenwa) to commemorate the Ossewa Trek of dissidents from the Cape in 1838 and a giant sundial at the municipal offices. The sundial, erected by Danie du Toit, in 1965, who had no training in this field but gained his knowledge through meticulous observation. Read the time from it, accurate to within 30 seconds.
Try the The Grootberg Hiking Trail – This trail around the summit of the Grootberg, southeast of Napier, offers the hiker a unique opportunity to see a large variety of fynbos species and birds along a clearly marked route.
Have your fill from fine dining to wholesome homely fare, there will be something to suit all tastes among the friendly and welcoming choices you will find dotting the main thoroughfare.
Napier Farm Stall – Since 1999, Ilze Vos of the Napier Farm Stall, has worked at creating the best country meals – wholesome treats, made in her ‘plaaskombuis’, from the freshest produce, to tantalise your taste buds and satisfy your appetite.
Moerse Plaasstal – The Moerse Farm Stall is something special – that is what Country Life Magazine and the TV show Pasella felt. When the daily fare of Moerse’s freshly baked pies, cakes, rusks, their famous melktert and vetkoek beckons, anyone in the know is quick to respond.
Jean Daneel Winery – It was a lucky day for Napier when Jean Daneel brought his family to the town. Jean is a well-known name for producing excellent wines.
Other eateries are Pascal’s, a welcoming cosy bistro experience at 48 Sarel Cilliers Street, Tel: 028 423 3146 or the Good Food Café which is open daily for breakfast and lunch, 68 Sarel Cilliers Street, Tel: 028 423 3893.
The Napier Hotel, Restaurant and pub is your ideal base for short trips to the “Must Sees” of the area. Not only do you have a great place to stay, but can rely on the wealth of knowledge of the owners.
Annual events include a “Patatfees” (Sweet Potato Festival) which is held every June and “The toughest race, with the warmest heart” – The Caltex Voet Van Afrika Marathon (commonly known as The Voet) is held in October.
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