Oakhurst Olives — Attraction in Witzenberg Local Municipality

We visited Oakhurst in January 2024 to do an olive tasting. The grounds and building are impressive, from the lush lawns which some horses were peacefully grazing on, to the classy reception and upstairs tasting area.

They offer a few tasting options, of which we chose to do the tutored tasting with cheese for 2. Our host was very friendly and taught us some interesting facts about olives and the best way to taste olive oil. We enjoyed the experience, and the products themselves are of excellent quality. The tasting included their olives, 2 types of their olive oil (delicate and intense), some of their olive-based condiments (tapenade & marmalade), and even some sauces. I appreciated how their olives are matured only in salt water brine, with no added "ripening" chemicals. Their olive oils are also award-winning.

We got to peek through the high windows into the production and maturation "cellars" when we were done with our tasting. All the products you get to taste are also available for purchase.

Will definitely recommend a visit for anyone who is a...

Oakhurst Olives in Tulbagh is a hidden gem tucked away in the mountains. The drive there is beautiful, with stunning views all around – though be prepared for a slightly bumpy road due to rain, it’s absolutely worth it!

At the end of the road, you’re greeted by a gorgeous building set right against the mountains – a picture-perfect setting. We did an olive tasting, which was both delicious and really informative. We learned about the farm’s history, how the olives are processed, and what they produce. The lady who helped us was very friendly and knowledgeable.

There’s a great selection of olive products available to buy, along with some lovely artwork and paintings on display. The facilities were clean, well-kept, and thoughtfully organised.

Overall, an amazing experience in a peaceful, scenic location. Just a note: the tasting area is upstairs, so it’s unfortunately not wheelchair accessible.

Highly recommended if you’re...

Such a gem of an activity with an amazing affordable rate (R40 at the time of my visit).

This olive oil tasting is a unique offering when compared to familiar wine, cheese, and fruit tasting. The host took her time explaining detailed information about the making of olive oil, best food pairings with certain olive oils, and an extra detailing of health benefits and developing an acumen for selecting good quality olive oil.

The offering of the tapenade(capers not anchovies), the chill marmalade, and sweet marmalade with a carefully prepared bread (also made with their olive oil) offered a delectable, spicy and palletable experience.

On site there are viewing windows where you can be a part of the making of the olive oil in real time. The farm is also set on a property with a boat house, horses and friendly jack russell with the backdrop of a beautiful mountain.

I recommend the chilli...