A pretty and peaceful little village in the Overberg region – discover Napier

It is difficult to describe the small village of Napier in the Western Cape. Many travelers might have rushed through the town without really noticing, as they rush to get to their seaside destination. For this reason, I want to stop in the village today.

Founded in 1838 and named after Sir George Thomas Napier, a British governor of the Cape Province at that time.

Getting there – on your way to …

Traveling by car (the only way to reach Napier), the roadside scenery is really beautiful. The yellow canola fields are really something to see: The best time to travel through the Overberg for these spectacular photo opportunities of the yellow Canola flowers, is late July, August, and early September. (June, July and August are winter months in the Cape.)

The road passing through Napier leads to other beautiful places like Struisbaai, L’Agulhas, and Waenshuiskrans/Arniston.

While driving through town you will definitely notice the beautiful Dutch Reformed church. The church was built in the form of a Greek cross with a teak interior. Included inside is a beautiful pipe organ made of solid yellow copper.

The little village is highly rated by the Tourism Board, although you will not find high-end shopping malls and holiday resorts here. Napier has increased in popularity for those seeking a quiet spot away from busy towns.

Near the end of town, you will find an Ox Wagon monument (Kakebeenwa) to commemorate the Ossewa Trek of 1838.

Nearest Airport

The nearest international airport is Cape Town International (CPT). From here you’ll have to rent a car. There are no public transport or trains to Napier.

Napier Farm Stall and Restaurant

It is next to this monument that we found the little gem: Napier Farm Stall and Restaurant. Undoubtedly famous for their fresh bread, they also stock homemade jam, rusks and many more. In my opinion it is the perfect place to stop for a slice of cake with tea. Alternatively you can enjoy venison pie and coffee, as we did. Despite the fact that is a tiny little shop inside, you can enjoy your coffee on “the stoep”.

Festivals and Marathons:

During June months you can visit Napier for their “Patatfees” (Sweet potato festival). In September each year they are part of the “Voet van Afrika” marathon. The first marathon was held in 1978. A newspaper article described it as “tough, challenging and a combination of a marathon and a trail run.”

Where to stay

If you’re looking for accommodation, you have many options from nearby towns as well: Book with a trusted company –

Stay in Struisbaai,
Bredasdorp,
L’Agulhas (The Southernmost point of Africa),
and, Arniston.

For accommodation in Napier: Click here to search and Book

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What to do in Napier:

If you were thinking that evenings would be pretty boring, think again. In particular, you can visit Pascal’s on the main road. Named after the well-known French cabaret singer Daniele Pascal who started this theatre in 2002. With this in mind, it became well-known in the village. They host various jazz, classical, or cabaret evenings, accompanied by a sit-down dinner.

Dine al-fresco in the summer, and in winter you can enjoy your dinner in front of a cozy log fire.

Furthermore, they are famous for their traditional Sunday lunches. Make sure to book in advance. They also offer accommodation.

On your way home:

After a visit to Struisbaai / L’Agulhas, as you drive away from Napier, be sure to keep an eye out for the Blue Cranes. Sadly only around 25 000 Blue Cranes remain in the world and about half of the population can be found in the Overberg, Western Cape.