Discover: A floating eatery in Stellenbosch

Bertus Basson burgers, pizza, plus spectacular views

Stellenbosch is filled with beautiful art, wine farms and unique spots to visit, and this floating eatery should be at the top of your list. You’ll find it at Hidden Valley Wines, a nature lover’s haven. It serves yummy Bertus Basson burgers, wood-fired pizza, and, of course, wine. 


Walk along a scenic footpath to get to The Deck. Image: @ferozagm

STEP ONTO A FLOATING DECK   

What makes this wine farm unique is its casual, self-help eatery set on a floating deck. This hidden gem is part of the Bertus Basson restaurant family. Bertus is a popular TV-personality, with series such as The Ultimate Braai Master, In Die Sop, and others. He has several restaurants in the Western Cape, and this one is perfect for languid lunches on a hot summer’s day. Plus the views from The Deck are some of the most spectacular in the winelands. 


This floating self-help eatery is perfect for languid lunches. Image: @lindileelinders

ORDER BURGERS OR PIZZA FOR LUNCH 

Head to the self-service counter, place your order, collect, and relax with a drink on the floating platform. The Deck strives for simplicity, and offers a small but sizzling menu. Bertus has a big love for burgers, and set out to create the most perfect ones in Stellenbosch.

You can be the judge: Order the star on The Deck’s menu, a juicy 100% beef burger on a home-made butter bun. Burger options change regularly, but you’ll definitely find one on the menu you’ll love, from a bacon-and-cheese beef burger to his version of a crispy chicken sando, coated with Bertus’ secret-spice seasoning. 


Try a famous Bertus Basson burger, the star of the menu. Image: @kyliehanekom

There are also a variety of wood-fired pizzas. Options vary, but the margherita and other interesting vegetarian pizzas will always be on the menu. Think creatively. The Deck has offered pizza with ricotta and lemon, one with marrow blossom, and even a chili con carne option. It also serves home-churned ice cream, Hidden Valley Wines, coffee, and soft drinks.


Order classic or unique (like ricotta and lemon) wood fired pizzas. Image: @drikusbrink

LINGER LONGER AND EXPLORE   

No need to rush, there’s loads more to do at Hidden Valley Wines. Taste the wines, indulge in a chocolate-and-wine pairing or order a charcuterie-and-cheese platter for two. On summer days, enjoy a picnic under shady trees on the lawn next to the dam or hike the Nature Trail. It takes about 20-25 minutes and is an easy to medium walk. The cherry on top? You can go on an exclusive tour of the wine farm’s modern, gravity-fed cellar (only available on request).


Taste wine, picnic, hike, or go on a cellar tour at Hidden Valley Wines. Image: @dr.deanallen

WHEN + WHERE TO GO

The Deck is open: Tuesday to Sundays, 11am to 4pm
Find it at: Hidden Valley Wines | Stellenbosch
Contact The Deck on: 021 880 2721, @thedeckathiddenvalley


Visit The Deck on your next trip to Stellies, even if it’s only for the view. Image: @dr.deanallen

By Simone Strydom

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