Find flavour on the Foodie Route

Locals say the West Coast has the most days of sunshine in South Africa, writes Ilse Zietsman.

Locals say the West Coast has the most days of sunshine in South Africa, writes Ilse Zietsman.

Published Feb 22, 2017

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When you chew on the whole, salted and dried mullet from Velddrif - some call it the bokkoms capital of the world - you get the real feel of the West Coast.

When slicing thin strips off, it’s impossible not to envisage a fisherman with a weather-beaten face and a twinkle in his eye, and then the storytelling begins

Fortunately, for the more squeamish the Foodie Route of the West Coast- one of the most uniquely themed routes on the West Coast Way that showcases the area’s attractions and activities- offers much more than the ubiquitous bokkoms.

Storytelling and earthy hospitality are part and parcel of the West Coast. The Foodie Route is a self-drive trail - as a day trip, short break from Cape Town city life or an extended West Coast holiday - it is up to you whether you want to linger longer.

It is difficult not to do so once you have visited a museum or two, viewed some art, learnt more about the fishing history and listened to the local stories to become acquainted with the culture of the West Coast.

It’s said that the West Coast has more sunny days per year than anywhere else in the world, though it might be one of the countless yarns the people of this coast spin good-naturedly.

Russells on the Port

Is a boutique guest house overlooking the Port Owen Marina, chef Charl Coetzee serves distinctive local cuisine. Huge portions go hand-in-hand with hospitality in this part of the world.

Thali Thali Game Lodge,

 

The seafood platters and eisbeins, not to mention Sunday buffets, will attest to this. Those who are not seduced by stoep talk can attempt to hone their skills with a bow and arrow.

Ormonde Private Cellar

In the town of Darling - before I’m accused of casting before I’ve baited my line - is the starting point of the Foodie Route. Ormonde offers wine tastings including bespoke chocolate and wine tastings as well as artisan platters with a selection of goodies such as poached pears in merlot.

Geelbek Restaurant in the West Coast National Park

 

Is known for its Cape bobotie - a recipe passed on from generation to generation.

At the Protea Hotel by Marriott Saldanha Bay,

The sea breeze caresses your face while you're slurping oysters. The world - or rather, the West Coast - becomes your proverbial oyster. This luxury establishment also makes a mean braaibroodjie.

Blue Bay Lodge & Resort in Saldanha

Blue Bay Café Restaurant and Bar, with views over the bay of Saldanha. It’s a popular meeting place to enjoy cocktails.

Albatross Guest House 

If you do linger longer and need a place to sleep after all the wining and dining, the Albatross Guest House in the heart of Langebaan has four double rooms with private entrances, which are a short walk from the beach.

The West Coast Fossil Park

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One of South Africa’s most important heritage sites - is home to 5 million-year-old fossils and the Sivatherium Coffee Shop. You can enjoy tasty home-bakes here.

Club Mykonos

 

Lather on some sunscreen and enjoy a little bit of Greece as you break away on an Elite Charters cruise. You’ll probably be tempted to stay for a night or three.

Paternoster has more restaurants than you can imagine.

This is just one of the reasons why you should seriously consider spending a few nights in this fishing village turned trendy seaside resort.

There are a plethora of places to stay in Paternoster ranging from cottages to boutique guest houses, and everything in between to choose from.

Still fancy a taste of bokkoms? 

Locals say the West Coast has the most days of sunshine in South Africa, 

HeronsRest in Velddrif

 

Within walking distance of Bokkom Laan you will find bokkoms, sushi and art, all side by side.

After all, bokkoms, a derring-do attitude and passion for this rustic coastline are what the people of the West Coast share - it’s their culture on their plate.

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