GF in Stellenbosch, South Africa
By Michele Wallick
Stellenbosch is a charming historic Wineland town about an hour drive from Cape Town. It’s the site of the most prestigious Afrikaans University surrounded by acres of gorgeous fruit orchards and vineyards. You can spend hours just driving through the mountainous region appreciating the spectacular views.
One of my favorite things to do when I’m exploring a new town is research and visit local farmers markets on the weekends. The Stellenbosch Fresh Market is a perfect mixture of homemade goodies and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables from the local farms. The cheese-makers and olive farmers also have a great presence. It’s still a thrill to turn a corner in a farmers market and see a sign that says “gluten free”. Janine Pienaar and her husband have a stand for their bakery shop called “Earth to You” (earthtoyou@telkomsan.net). That morning I enjoyed gluten free corn frittatas and I bought fresh homemade gluten free bread to bring home for the week. Janine has noticed a significant increase in the number of people that are requesting gluten free baked goods.
As I was wondering around the market, I was fortunate enough to meet Patrick Meehan who is also a Celiac. Patrick owns Stonehill Olive (mail@stonehillolives.co.za) orchard and all of his olive products are gluten free. His fruit flavored olives were extremely unique and his olive oil is fantastic. After a couple hours of strolling, eating samples, and enjoying the morning, it was time for a very special lunch.
As I was surfing on the web for the Stellenbosch Fresh Market, I also found a magnificent berry orchard and cafe called HillCrest Orchards www.hillcrestberries.co.za . Greg, my husband, enjoyed eating the mulberries right off the trees in their parking lot. We were seated at their café and the chef came out to our table and patiently walked me through the menu. My selection was an incredible mushroom risotto with sweet asparagus on top. I savored every bite as we soaked up the sun on their outside deck overlooking their neighboring orchards. The views of the rolling orchards were as inspiring as the gluten free dining experience. Then dessert arrived at our table… mouthwatering cheesecake with a divine gooseberry sauce. I didn’t think life could be any better until I tasted the side of homemade chocolate chip berry ice cream. Unbelievable! After lunch we enjoyed shopping for gluten free jellies and jams at their café. Life is good! Gluten free life is great!
Our day was enhanced even more after visiting some wineries in the area. The tours of their manufacturing process and their vineyards were unforgettable. After we learned about growing the grapes, picking the grapes, and making the wine, it was time for our wine tasting experience. The Stellenbosch Fresh Market and the wineries are a definite “must see” for a fabulous GF adventure in South Africa.
Michele Wallick was diagnosed with Celiac Disease in December 2006. Michele is currently sailing across the south Atlantic with her husband to raise funds for Celiac awareness. All donations will be used to create an educational package for general practitioners. You can follow Michele’s GF adventures on her website.
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