Little Karoo Dream: Barrydale’s hidden treasure

Small towns are often the places that leave lasting memories. South Africa is home to countless charming ‘dorpies’, and each one has its own unique character. Barrydale, an unassuming little village in the Western Cape, lies in a hollow between the Overberg and Klein Karoo. It might not make headlines for its shopping centres, infrastructure or entertainment venues but the natural scenery far surpasses any human-made attraction.

Of course, if you make your way out to that side of the world, you want equally unforgettable accommodation. Little Karoo Dream is a self-catering four sleeper unit run by a retired hardware expert, whom many might know as ‘Reuben the Screwman’ from his appearances on Cape Talk and 702 Radio.

The unit boasts a toasty wood-burning Dovre fireplace and cosy electric blankets for winter visitors, and ceiling fans in each room for summertime guests. The spacious porch that overlooks the valley and mountains is the perfect place for sundowners or morning coffee. The large garden has a bonfire pit, too.

In addition to the fantastic accommodation, Reuben and his wife  Kaeren also offer other exciting services. Guests can arrange for in-house spa treatments on request, like full-body massages and essential oils therapy. Vegetarian meals can also be delivered by arrangement.

They are currently running a great special: Book for two days and get the third day for free. Not applicable during peak season.

Contact

Call Reuben on 072 2358 036

Or visit his Airbnb profile here.

What else is on in Barrydale? 

Ask Reuben for the best spots to go hiking, walking or bird watching. Here are some of his pictures taken in the area:

Or visit one of the lovely attractions in town

The Maker’s Brew

Contact: Tel 0836266121, themakersbrew.co.za

The Maker’s are so called because they literally “make” everything, from their craft beer to the labels and the tables. They’ve been producing their beer since February 2018 and you can enjoy a tasting platter or pint at their spot along Route 62 from Wednesday to Sunday. Apart from beer, they also serve a good cup of coffee, along with wine and craft gins. If you are feeling peckish, they have platters, sandwiches and nibbles. Next door you’ll find beautifully crafted ceramic candleholders, bowls and vessels by local artist, Helen Vaughen, which are worth taking a look at – and taking home with a few bottles of The Maker’s brown ale, porter or shiraz.

Magpie Art Collective

Contact: Tel 0285721768, magpieartcollective.com

Chandeliers made from dog food cans, lights created using plastic bottles and throne chairs with ostrich feathers… these are just a few of the things you can expect to find at the Magpie Collective, a company that has been making exquisite items from recycled goods since 1998. However, it’s not all about fashioning bespoke items for hotels and overseas companies, they also believe that they cannot produce items for wealthy people in a town that has so much poverty, one has to get involved. They are very involved, including several NGO’s and every year they build a Christmas Tree for the village in the adjoining meadow. This is accompanied by much fanfare, including a parade with puppets from the Handspring Puppet Company. This year the parade takes place on the weekend of 15-17 December and will include a Barrydale Art Meander. In the meantime, look out for their famous Peace Dove, made from recycled milk bottles, that may pop up anywhere from New Zealand to Germany.