From the moment I opened my eyes that Saturday morning, I felt it in my gut, the bittersweet pull of leaving Stellenbosch. After having the time of my life (as you might’ve read in my last post), it was hard to part ways with a town that had nourished my soul. But I had an exciting day ahead. I couldn’t leave without my beloved strawberry juice from Roosenwijn Guest House, it’s almost become my travel ritual even though I had to skip breakfast (begrudgingly) because Steenberg was expecting me.
The sweet woman who made breakfast at Roosenwijn even asked if I wanted the same as the day before , it took all of me to politely decline.
By 7am, it was still dark in Stellenbosch. There’s something oddly magical about early morning silence in a place you’ve fallen in love with. My Bolt driver, who’d taken me on other trips during my stay, arrived right on time. He helped with my bags and we drove off, chatting like old friends, easing into the gentle coastal route. As we passed Fish Hoek, I cracked the window open and inhaled, that fresh morning ocean air kissed my face like a goodbye from the Winelands.
Breakfast at Steenberg: Where Winter Tastes Different
Driving into Steenberg Farm is like stepping into a painting each detail effortlessly curated by nature, history, and quiet luxury. As we approached through the sweeping roads of Tokai, I couldn’t help but notice the gorgeous homes that lined the entry into the estate. Impeccably designed with understated elegance, they stood as a quiet prelude to the storybook scene that awaited me.
The vines stretched in uniform precision, kissed by the soft light of a gorgeous sunny Cape winter morning. And then, as if nature knew I had arrived, the mountain dropped into full view—majestic and grounding. It created a cinematic backdrop to this timeless estate. Steenberg is the kind of place where the landscape makes you pause, and for a few moments, you forget the pace of real life.
Founded in 1682, Steenberg is the oldest registered farm in the Cape, a place where heritage and hospitality live in harmony. The estate feels both regal and relaxed, with its manicured vineyards, modern architecture softened by nature, and quiet corners that invite stillness. Every detail, from the gravel crunching underfoot to the way the trees lean toward the light, whispers intention.
At Bistro Sixteen82, I was welcomed into the warmth of their Vintners Breakfast, the signature winter offering. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a morning experience layered with flavour and finesse. It began with bubbles and oysters (yes, before 10am) and unfolded into a curated spread that celebrated Cape produce and artistry.
The Eggs Royale arrived draped in silken hollandaise, perched atop a buttery brioche that soaked up every golden note. Then came the panna cotta, served with seasonal fruit and a drizzle of honey, as soft and delicate as the vineyard light. Every bite felt like a slow, deliberate act of self-honouring.
What makes Steenberg special isn’t only its food or wine, it’s how it holds space for you. Whether you’re seated in the sun at Bistro Sixteen82 or walking through the vines with a glass of Cap Classique in hand, there’s a gentle reminder to be fully present. The farm doesn’t demand attention; it invites presence.
I spent the morning in no rush, letting the estate hold me in its calm. I knew I had a luxurious sea-facing check-in ahead, but I allowed Steenberg to linger. This was the kind of morning that deepens your love for travel – slow, sensory, and soaked in elegance.
Steenberg Contact & Details
Steenberg Farm, Tokai Road, Tokai, Cape Town
Website: www.steenbergfarm.com
Phone: +27 (0)21 713 2211
Email: info@steenbergfarm.com
From Vineyards to Ocean Views: The President Hotel
After soaking up every golden moment at Steenberg, I headed off to check into my final stop, The President Hotel in Bantry Bay. As we drove into Sea Point, the city slowly revealing itself in waves of sun and sea, I knew this was the perfect ending to my first solocation.
The ocean breeze greeted me like an old friend. I was closing off a magical solo journey in an apartment with an uninterrupted ocean view, a real postcard moment. But more on that in my next post…
President Hotel Contact & Details
4 Alexander Road, Bantry Bay, Cape Town
Website: www.presidenthotel.co.za
Phone: +27 (0)21 434 8111
Email: info@presidenthotel.co.za
Solocation Lesson?
Take yourself somewhere that reminds you of who you are outside of work, roles, and relationships. Stellenbosch whispered that to me. Steenberg sang it. The President Hotel sealed it with the waves.
More travels, more storytelling, and more luxury in everyday moments, that’s the Timeless Trends way.
By: Nokuthula Khwela
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