Step into the countryside charm of Napier, a small Overberg town that effortlessly blends old-world allure with an offbeat edge. Rolling wheat fields stretch along the R316, welcoming you into a place where history lingers in the architecture, and creativity thrives in every quirky corner. Just 169 km from Cape Town, Napier sits surprisingly close to home but feels like a world away.
Table of Contents
The Tale of Two Towns
Founded in 1838 and named after Cape Governor Sir George Napier, the town holds more than just scenic views; it has a story.
As it turns out, there was drama in the village (isn’t there always?) when two neighbours, Michiel van Breda and Pieter Voltelyn van der Byl, disagreed on where to build the community church. The result? Two churches. Two towns. And the birth of both Napier and its better-known sibling, Bredasdorp.
Explore a Little More
Don’t let its size fool you, Napier may be home to just 2,500 residents, but it packs a creative punch. The town bursts with character, offering everything from quirky art galleries and antique stores to charming coffee shops, farm stalls, and local craft studios.
Whether you’re browsing eccentric sculptures, sipping wine with the locals, or uncovering hidden historical gems, Napier invites you to slow down and enjoy the unexpected. It’s the kind of place that surprises even the weariest traveller, just when you need it most.
Napier Farm Stall 🍓
You’ll want to make a stop at this one-of-a-kind farm stall run by Ilze Vos since 1999, especially if you’re driving through Napier or simply craving something hearty and homemade. Ilze has turned this quirky roadside gem into a warm, nostalgic space decorated with vintage bicycles, rusted pots, and old glassware, each piece adding charm and telling a piece of local history. Inside, you’ll find shelves with freshly baked cakes, handmade rusks, artisanal jams, biscuits, and all the comfort foods your road trip dreams are made of.
Their menu brims with country-style favourites. We tucked into a freshly made roosterbrood filled with smoked beef, paired with a steaming cup of coffee that hit just right on a chilly afternoon. Whether you’re after a quick bite, a slice of small-town hospitality, or a place to stretch your legs, this stop is a must when visiting Napier.
Website: https://xplorio.com/napier/napier-farm-stall/
Address: 106 Sarel Cilliers St, Napier
Contact: 028 423 3440
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 08:00 am – 16:00 pm
Vindigo 🍷
Right next to the popular Napier Farm Stall, you’ll find Vindigo, a charming, pint-sized spot that invites you to linger. This local treasure trove showcases handmade art, unique crafts, and a well-curated selection of wines from vineyards across the Overberg region.
Step inside and browse everything from vibrant ceramics and paintings to small-batch preserves and thoughtful gifts. The shelves brim with character, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to lose track of time. If you love supporting local makers or want to take a piece of Napier home with you, Vindigo is a must-visit.
Address: 108 Sarel Cilliers Street, Napier
Contact: 028 423 3069
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 09:00 to 17:30 pm, Saturday: 09:00 to 17:00 pm and Sunday: 10:00 to 16:00 pm
Visit the Dutch Reformed Church ⛪️
Make your way to the Dutch Reformed Church, one of Napier’s oldest and most iconic landmarks. Built in 1838, the same year the town was founded, this striking church stands out with its unusual architectural style, a refreshing departure from the traditional Cape Dutch aesthetic. Step inside to admire its beautifully preserved teak interior, where warm wood tones and historic charm instantly transport you to a different era.
Restored in 1988 to commemorate Napier’s 150th anniversary, the church remains a proud symbol of the town’s resilience and heritage. Surrounded by leafy trees and set against the backdrop of rolling countryside, it offers a quiet moment for reflection and stunning photo opportunities. Whether you’re a history lover, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for beautiful places off the beaten track, this church is a must-see when visiting Napier.
Website: www.kaapkerk.co.za/wp/index.php/gemeentes
Address: 77 Sarel Cilliers Street, Napier
Contact: 028 423 3457 / 3323
The Fox Restaurant and Pub 🍽️
Step inside one of Napier’s oldest buildings, originally constructed in 1860, transformed by owners Mike and Louise into the welcoming Fox Restaurant and Pub. What was once a family home now serves up warm hospitality and hearty meals in an intimate setting that’s perfect for small groups or couples seeking a cosy culinary experience.
The menu is delightfully diverse, from classic hake and chips to juicy steaks and rumps, all served with flair and accompanied by an impressive local wine list. Whether you’re stopping in for a casual lunch or a relaxing evening out, The Fox offers a delicious glimpse into Napier’s evolving food scene.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/thefoxrestaurantpub/
Address: 12 Sarel Cilliers St, Napier
Contact: 076 116 0964
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 12:00 pm to 23:00 pm. Closed on Mondays.
Moerse Farm Stall 🥐
You can’t visit Napier without stopping at the Moerse Farm Stall, and yes, it’s just as bold as the name suggests. Owner Mannie greets every visitor with a beaming smile and a signature “Moerse lekker!” welcome that sets the tone for what’s inside. Lining the shelves, you’ll find homemade strawberry jams crafted by Mannie’s wife, locally baked rusks and biscuits, quirky signage, and shelves of handmade crafts and decor.
We tucked into a comforting breakfast of ham and cheese toasties, scones with jam and cream, and the deliciously indulgent Moerse vetkoek breakfast, a local treat worth every bite. This spot is more than just a pit stop; it’s a full-on experience of small-town charm and flavour.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/@MoerseFarmstallOverbergNursery/
Address: R316, 6 Sarel Cilliers St, Napier
Contact: 072 592 3693
Opening Hours: Thursday to Thursday: 09:00 am to 17:00 pm. Closed on Wednesdays.
Browse Napier’s Quiet, Quirky Streets 🚶♀️
Napier may be small, but it’s packed with character around every corner. Take a slow walk through town and admire its historic architecture, mismatched shopfronts, and bursts of creativity that line its quiet streets. From colourful doors to unexpected art installations, this is a town that rewards the curious wanderer.
Riek Creative Art Gallery 🎨
Feed your creative side with a visit to the Riek Creative Art Gallery, a space that bursts with colour and texture. Browse through a carefully curated selection of paintings, ceramics, and sculptures, each piece celebrating local talent and artistic flair. Whether you’re a collector or simply an appreciator, this gallery will leave you inspired.
Address: 42 Sarel Cilliers Street, Napier
Contact: 072 461 4042
Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Fridays: 09:00 am to 16:00 pm, Saturdays: 09:00 am to 14:00 pm, and Sundays: 09:00 am to 13:00 pm.
Nobunto Factory 🕯️
Step into the world of handcrafted beauty at Nobunto Factory, where local artisans specialise in vibrant hand-painted candles and ceramics. Take a guided tour to see the meticulous work that goes into every piece, and learn how this proudly South African business uplifts the local community through sustainable craftsmanship.
The factory shop, overlooking Napier’s main street, offers the perfect place to pick up a meaningful souvenir, especially as the sun begins to dip behind the hills.
Website: https://www.nobunto.com/?
Address: 108 Sarel Cilliers Street (main road), Napier
Contact: 028 423 3172
Napier may fly under the radar, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. This little Overberg town invites you to slow down, wander its creative corners, and savour the kind of charm that bigger cities have long forgotten. Whether you’re enjoying a roosterbrood breakfast at a quirky farm stall, sipping wine next to a vintage bicycle, or getting inspired in a local art gallery, Napier shows you that adventure doesn’t always mean going far; it means going deeper.
So, pack your weekend bag, hop in the car, and head just 169 km out of Cape Town to experience a town full of flavour, character, and countryside soul. Napier is waiting to surprise you, inspire you, and most of all, welcome you like an old friend. Go see it for yourself, you’ll wonder why you didn’t visit sooner.
