Words: Belinda Mountain | Images: Supplied
If you didn’t know any better, you may drive through McGregor’s high street and think of it as a dusty one-horse town. But as a small-town girl myself, I know there’s always more to these places than meets the eye, and that if you take the time, you’ll discover many gems – whether they’re things to do or people to meet.
Firstly, there was our charming accommodation The Kite House, set in the tranquil Mira Development, with a generous stoep that overlooks a beautifully landscaped garden, a midnight-blue swimming pool and the changing hues of mountains and hills in the distance. With the call of birdsong in our ears, this was the perfect place to sit with a sundowner in hand, as we lit up the braai, chatted about life, and watched the children doing cartwheels on the lawn.
The house sleeps six and is supremely comfortable and cosy, with its roaring fireplace and every amenity you can think of, including free Wi-Fi. Carefully-considered décor includes a gorgeous wrought-iron front door, pale-green window shutters that you fling open onto rose bushes dripping with white blooms, and sumptuous linen that makes for a wonderful night’s sleep.
From the house, the high street is a short walk away, with much to keep you entertained. Closet Confidante is a new clothing store selling unique knitwear and jewellery, adjacent to a new restaurant called Open Kitchen. There are various art galleries and a Saturday morning market, which is pet friendly and hosts live music. Temenos Retreat has beautiful gardens and meditation areas, plus two libraries, a lovely restaurant and a poetry room. Speaking of poetry, McGregor plays host to an annual poetry festival, being held this year from 24 to 26 August, which seems a good excuse as any to visit this part of the world.
If wine is more your thing, then McGregor has plenty to offer. We paid a visit to Lord’s Wines, which I highly recommend. This family-run winery makes award-winning Pinot Noir and MCC, and during our wine tasting and tour of the cellar, we learned many fascinating facts, plus enjoyed a delicious local cheese platter.
Peace, poetry or Pinot Noir – McGregor certainly has something for everyone.
McGregor Country Getaways
023 625 1409
mcgregor-accommodation.co.za
Poetry in McGregor Festival
023 625 1871
poetryinmcgregor.co.za
Lord’s Wines
023 625 1265
lordswinery.com
