In 1902 the small farming village of Bot River was brought to life by the building of railway line. Considered a massive engineering feat, this allowed people to travel between Cape Town and Somerset West to Caledon and on to Bredarsdorp. The line prospered for a time, but once the N2 was built and road transport became popular, the line’s usefulness diminished. Today, trains only arrive at Bot River at holiday times and on special occasions. But you don’t need to be in a train to enjoy Bot River’s most popular railside attraction, The Shuntin’ Shed.
Originally a railway siding where goods from the trains would then be transported off to neighbouring towns on trucks, The Shuntin’ Shed is now a cosy restaurant and pub that is frequented by the local farmers, tourists and bikers alike. We loved the quirky railway decor including railroad lanterns and the original train seats. There’s seating for 100 odd people, comfy couches, a fireplace, and a warm and friendly atmosphere. If you you sit outside you can see the original railway line and enjoy a lovely view over the mountains and wheat fields.
The Shuntin’ Shed has a “local is lekker” policy and use mostly organic ingredients from local farms for the tasty meals on their menu. Continuing with the policy they only stock Bot River wines and you can enjoy a pint of Napier Beer on tap. Local musicians are also encouraged. Personal relationships are important to them, so you are very likely to bump into one of their farmers who supply them vegetables or a local winemaker at the bar. Now that’s what I call a real “local”!
My friend and I had the homemade chicken pie and the four seasons pizza. The pie took up half the plate and was served with crispy roast potatoes and juicy young peas and carrots. It was delicious (gaaah, that pastry!) and even though I had eaten a pretty substantial breakfast, I was determined to finish it. My friend enjoyed her pizza, but we both agreed that the pie took the cake (er pie). They have a fairly wide menu selection which is is presented on a chalkboard and a clipboard. The pizza’s are popular and there are plenty to choose from, including rib pizza, pizza with gemsbok and even a chocolate pizza with banana’s and marshmallows for dessert. Mains include dishes like Karoo lamb chops, burgers, bangers and mash and of course home-made pie. Sunday roast is a huge hit at The Shuntin’s Shed and I am not surprised – it is slow-cooked overnight in the pizza oven! Pie or no pie, my mouth watered at the thought of pizza-oven roast pork or chicken. Add some local fresh and organic produce, a glass of Bot River wine and you have me driving 80km from Cape Town to Bot River for Sunday lunch.
The Shuntin’ Shed has quiz night on Thursdays, wine-tastings on a Friday (soon beer-tasting as well) with live entertainment by local musicians. Saturdays are good for catching the game on their wide-screen tv’s or taking part in their kareoke competition. Then of course Sunday is roast day (often with live music accompaniment). They can also cater for parties and functions.
Bring your family, your friends, the farmer next door and your dog (yes, they are pet-friendly too) to the best little siding this side of town. It really is lekker.
Contact information for The Shuntin’ Shed:
Opening times: Open every day, with the restaurant operating on Wednesday and Thursday evenings and from lunch on Friday til’ 4pm on Sunday. It is advisable to book for the Sunday roast.
Telephone: 028-284 9443 or 072-674 7239
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.theshuntinshed.co.za
No trains please, this is Hermanus:
Plans were also drawn up to for the railway line to be extended from the main line at Bot River to Hermanus. However, Sir William Hoy was concerned that the steam trains would not only pollute the clean air, but also that the Hermanus would suddenly be descended upon by hundreds of tourists, spoiling the quaintness of the sleepy seaside town. Even though a station had been built in Hermanus, the extension was over-ruled and a horse and carriage service ran between the two towns. To this day Hermanus Station is the only station in the world where no trains have ever arrived.
Be responsible – don’t drink and drive.
