The Shuntin Shed Botrivier - Train Station, Main Road, Bot River

There is no shortage of pet-friendly stops along the N2 travelling from Somerset West to Plettenberg Bay, but we have discovered another hidden gem to add to our list.

The Shuntin Shed, filling tummies since 2004

There is no shortage of pet-friendly stops along the N2 travelling from Somerset West to Plettenberg Bay, but we have discovered another hidden gem to add to our list.

After a weekend away in the Garden Route and wanting to take a break on the long trek home to Strand we decided to do a pit stop at the Shunting Shed in Botriver. We had heard so much about the restaurant which could be best described as a combination of a sports bar and diner, definitely a favourite among the local residents of Botriver and Hermanus.

The Shuntin Shed is the old Botriver train station and is set along the train tracks below the Houhoek Pass. The restaurant has a substantial menu, but our friends had mentioned their pizzas were highly recommended, so pizza was. After our dogs had made friends with the resident dog our friendly waiter offered us a table and bought out water for our four dogs. The service was quick and friendly, and the pizza lived up to its reputation, just the perfect crust and not at all shy with the toppings.

Apart from the food, there is nothing better to cool you down on a hot summer day than a delicious draft. Shuntin Shed had a wide variety available on tap which made choosing the right one very difficult.

Now that our tummies were full and our cravings were satisfied, we took a stroll into the restaurant to have a look at all the amazing memorabilia, it was really worth the time and the venue is ideal for both travellers and the locals wanting to take time off from cooking or just mingling with friends and family.

There is more than enough parking next to the restaurant and space for your dogs to stretch their legs before hitting the road again. I know I went on about the pizzas, but we will definitely, be back to try a few more items.

• On the Botrivier Station Platform
• Main Road
• Botrivier
• 7185

Info@theshuntinshed.co.za

(+27)82 502 6168)

Cape Town to Plettenberg Bay

We had a very early start to our day to be able to find the following places for you that are definitely worth a visit.

1. The Padloper in Riviersonderend

We stopped here just after 8, and with a warm welcome and coffee, we had a relaxing time in the little garden. The scones were in the oven and I’m regretting not staying long enough to have one, will definitely have to go back. The little garden on the side is pet and kid-friendly, with a lovely play area the kids can be kept busy while you enjoy breakfast and the dogs, cats, rabbits or any other animal you might have as a companion can join you. If you find it too cold outside, they have a lovely fireplace inside, unfortunately, this area is not pet-friendly.

This is one of the first coffee shops I have found that sells doggy products in their gift shop (bought 2 beautiful leads). Definitely worth a visit. Look out for the blue building on the main road.

2. Rolandale in Buffeljagsrivier

You see Rolandale on your right just before coming into Buffeljagsrivier. Apart from their very big garden area, they also have a small fenced doggy area in front of the restaurant where you can let your 4 legged companions loose to stretch their legs. Should you wish to order a takeaway instead of sitting in the restaurant, this fenced area also has a picnic table inside.

3. Delish in Heidelberg

You see the signs for Delish as you start approaching Heidelberg. This little gem on your right also has a lovely outside garden area together with a play area for the children. This was the perfect time for me to fuel up, with a lovely big bear breakfast and a coffee, the dogs and I felt ready for the rest of our trip. There is also a very nice little Gin and Wine Shop, so why not stock up on something for the end of your trip as well? Inside they have a deli area, from Pies to Peanut Butter Cup Cakes, there is something for everyone.

4. Die Rooi Alwyn in Riversdal

This very neat little padstal has something of everything. This is no ordinary padstal, in their little garden area they have a doggy bar, serving only the freshest of water. If you have not had breakfast or lunch yet, then this is a great place to stop. From amazing omelettes to vetkoek you cannot ask for more. I just stopped here for a bathroom break and found their facilities to be very neat, clean, and modern. Will try and make this a food stop in the future.

5. Doggy Park in Albertinia

The Shell garage in Albertinia has a great doggy park, worth a visit. They have 2 enclosed areas, 1 for the bigger dogs and 1 for cats and smaller dogs. They offer freshwater, poo bags, and a table under the shade for picnics. The OK at the Shell garage does great takeaway coffee, or if you would like to stock up on snacks then this is the place to do it.

6. Kaaimans Beach in Winderness

This is the best-kept secret in town. You park your car along the N2 by the Kaaimans River, then after a very short walk along the road, you get to a secret beach that only the locals know about. Most of the time you will not find anyone on the beach and the dogs can have a good stretch of the legs. Please make sure to only leave paw prints behind.

7. Hoekwil Country Cafe

I have always heard that you find the best cheesecake here but thought it was just a marketing ploy. This little Cafe sits a little bit off the N2, but worth the detour as they really do sell the best Cheesecake and Chocolate cake.

That was our last stop before we reached Plettenberg Bay. Nothing beats having a good roll in the grass to loosen all the muscles after such a long trip.