Hartenbos, located in the Western Cape province of South Africa, is a popular holiday destination for locals and tourists alike.

As with any holiday destination, one of the most important factors to consider is the food options available. Fortunately, Hartenbos spoils visitors with excellent restaurants to choose from, serving up everything from traditional South African cuisine to international dishes. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the best restaurants and activities in and around Hartenbos.

1. Hartenbos Koswerf restaurant

ATKV resorts is proud to introduce its unique restaurant brand called Koswerf. These restaurants are now available at all seven resorts. The Koswerf restaurants offer value-for-money dishes suitable for every family member, from a Koswerf breakfast to a homemade beef burger with caramelised onions and gherkins. Other favourites include chicken salad, Koswerf Koning pizza, and chicken schnitzel with cheese sauce, not forgetting desserts like ice-cream with chocolate sauce and unique treats special to each resort.

2. Piza ē Vino in Hartenbos is an Italian restaurant known for its fresh, healthy Italian food, including pizza and pasta. It is recognized for its wonderful atmosphere and stunning views given its setting by the beach, which offers a beautiful setting for dining. The restaurant is particularly praised for its wood-fired pizzas and a variety of other dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options.
3. Hennie's Hartenbos Restaurant is a popular spot offering a unique dining experience with a humorous twist. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and reasonably priced food, the restaurant has a medley of dishes, including thin crust pizzas, burgers, and steaks. The place has a great vibe with a variety of seating options, making it a fun and lively eatery to visit.
4. De Vette Mossel

De Vette Mossel is a unique seafood restaurant situated right on the beach. This rustic eatery is renowned for its all-you-can-eat seafood buffet, which includes everything from fresh line fish and calamari to mussels and prawns. The restaurant has a relaxed and casual atmosphere, with large wooden tables and benches adding to the rustic charm. De Vette Mossel is the perfect spot to enjoy a lazy lunch with friends or family.

5. La Cantina

La Cantina is a stylish Italian restaurant located in the nearby town of Mossel Bay. The menu features authentic Italian dishes, including homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty meat dishes. The restaurant has a chic and modern interior, with exposed brick walls and wooden furnishings adding to the cozy atmosphere. La Cantina is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner for two or a night out with friends.

5. Bayview Coffee

Bayview Coffee Co. is located in Hartenbos, Mossel Bay, and is known for its American style café offerings. This spot has a high rating, with customers particularly praising its great cakes, coffee, and breakfast. The ambiance is described as welcoming, featuring soft music that adds to the overall experience. The café has garnered attention for its excellent food and service, making it a must-visit for those in the area looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a good cup of coffee or a tasty meal.

Hartenbos is a small, seaside resort town located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Situated along the picturesque Garden Route, Hartenbos is a popular holiday destination for South Africans and international tourists alike. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and a wide range of activities and attractions.

Here are some of the top things to see and do in and around Hartenbos:

1. Visit the beaches

One of the main attractions of Hartenbos is its beautiful beaches. The main beach is a wide, sandy stretch that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports. There are also several smaller, secluded beaches in the area, including Diaz Beach and Santos Beach, which are great for those who prefer a quieter beach experience.

2. Explore the Hartenbos Water Park

The Hartenbos Water Park is a fun-filled family destination. The park features several water slides and there is also a playground and a mini-golf course on site.

3. Go Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in Hartenbos, and there are great spots in the area for fishing enthusiasts. The Klein Brak River is a popular spot for freshwater fishing, while the ocean offers opportunities for deep-sea fishing.

4. Take a Scenic Drive

The Garden Route is known for its stunning scenery, and a scenic drive is a great way to take it all in. The route from Hartenbos to Mossel Bay offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the ocean, with small towns and villages along the way.

5. Visit the Hartenbos Museum

The Hartenbos Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the area. The museum features exhibits on the local flora and fauna, as well as displays on the town's early settlers and its maritime history.

6. Take a Boat Cruise

A boat cruise is a great way to explore the coastline and see the local marine life. Several companies offer boat tours from Hartenbos, including dolphin and whale watching tours.

7. Visit the Botlierskop Private Game Reserve

The Botlierskop Private Game Reserve is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. The reserve is home to a wide range of African wildlife, including lions, elephants and giraffes. Visitors can take a guided safari tour to see the animals up close.

8. Explore the Outeniqua Mountains

The Outeniqua Mountains are a stunning natural landmark in the area, and there are several great hiking trails that offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The Garcia Pass, which runs through the mountains, is also a popular scenic drive.

9. Go Shopping

Hartenbos has several great shopping destinations, including the Langeberg Mall and the Hartenbos Seefront. The Seefront is a popular spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment, with shops, restaurants, and bars all in one location.

10. Try Local Cuisine

The Western Cape province is known for its delicious food, and Hartenbos has a selection of quaint restaurants and cafes where visitors can try local cuisine. Seafood is a specialty in the area, with fresh fish and shellfish caught daily.

Hartenbos is a beautiful and vibrant holiday destination that offers a multitude of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore the local wildlife, or indulge in some retail therapy, there is something for everyone in and around Hartenbos.