|
We have rivers, mountains and
dams for you to explore by leisurely walks and hikes,
by mountain bike or horse-back. Our expert local guides
will take you abseiling and rock climbing in our beautiful
gorges as well as on guided 4x4 or quad bike fynbos
and birding tours. Bass fishing and trout fishing are
among the variety of things to do around the Groenland
Mountain with the villages Bot River (Botrivier), Elgin
Valley Grabouw, Houw Hoek and Villiersdorp in the heart
of the Cape Floral Kingdom.
We have an exceptional events management team to assist
with all your team building requests and corporate programmes.
Nature Discovery Ride
& Hike Tours Tri Active
Guided 4 x 4 Tours
Tri Active Events Management
Slack
Pack Walks
Green Mountain Trail - 4 day slackpack
trail
Guided
Nature Walks
Tri Active Events Management
Guided
Quad Bike Tours
Nature Discovery Tours
Tri Active Events Management
Fishing
Houw Hoek Farm Stall
Horse Riding
Porcupine Hills Guest Farm
Hiking
Trails
Cape Nature Trails
Nature
Discovery Ride
& Hike Tours
Mountain Bike Trails
Cape Nature Trails
Oak Valley Mountain Bike Trail
Ride & Hike touring is providing something a little
different. We KNOW you’ll like the concept.
Ride & Hike takes you and your friends to the top
of the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve rarely seen by
most. A short ride in a 4 x 4 ranger vehicle enables you
to explore deep into pristine Fynbos areas with endless
breathtaking views where walking is an absolute privilege
and pleasure. Heavens
Heights Adventure Trail:
This trail sets off through forest, crossing a couple
of rivers and climbs steadily up to the Gantouw or Eland
Pass, the original wagon route of the Dutch and British
settlers, over the Mountains of Africa, so called in
the old days. This route was used for 150 years and
following the migratory Eland, one of the oldest and
steepest and most treacherous passes in the Western
Cape. Even today one can still see the deep gouges in
the rocks, made by the brakes of the wagons, as they
descended the precipitous pass down through what is
now Somerset West from the lush grazing area of the
Elgin Valley. The signal canon system of the old Cape
Settlers can be seen as we take a short walk to the
top of the pass. Surrounded by unusual rock formations
formed from the Cape Fold mountain system can also be
photographed. The pass was declared a National Monument
in 1958.
We hop on the Ranger, drive
through two valleys of rich pristine Fynbos at the base
of Hans-se-kop and take a further walk along a river
where unusual Restios and Ericoide families can be photographed.
Hopping back on the ranger we ascend the steep climb
to the Hans-se-kop Mountain, ascending to ±1200m
above sea level to one of the most spectacular views
in the southern hemisphere, unique views of False Bay
and the Kogelburg Mt Range to the far South. There you
can see the two oceans, Indian and Atlantic quite clearly.
This trail passes through one of the hot spot bird watching
sights.
Nature Discovery has taken great care and attention
to access the best possible routes for visitors. The
tours are professionally run and by in large most say
the highlight of their holiday.
Morning tour: 08h00 sharp in summer
(Nov – March) and 09h30 in winter (Apr –
Oct)
Afternoon tour: 14h30 in summer (Nov
– March) and 13h30 in winter (Apr – Oct)
What does it cost?
R345pp for Ride & Hike
Children under 8yrs – free of charge
Children 8-12 ½ price
Price includes – driver, field guide, refreshments
en-route, permits, taxes and a sense of humour.
EXCELLENT VALUE FOR MONEY!
Green Mountain Eco Route
Approx. 3-5 hours total 1-2 hrs hike/walk
The Cape Floral kingdom is the smallest yet richest
plant kingdom on earth and is internationally recognized
as a biodiversity hot spot and South Africa’s
latest world heritage sight widely known as the Kogelberg
Biosphere Reserve. There is approximately only 9% of
unique Renosterveld and low-land coastal Fynbos eco-systems
left.
 The
Green Mountain Eco Route trail travels from our base
at the Elgin/Grabouw Country Club next to the large
Eikenhof Lake. We pack up our open canopied 4 x 4 ranger
with refreshments, binoculars, camera and high spirits,
traveling to a thousand meter view point through the
Nuweberg Forest, past lakes ascending the Green Mountain
on a jeep track passing many spectacular Fynbos habitats
as we gain altitude. There we hop off and walk 1 –
2 hrs amongst these rare plants on a fairly easy walking
trail viewing far to the South West. Some of the best
views in the world! As we walk along the ridges we discuss
the history of the area and identify many rare and spectacular
natural phenomena. There are 5000 hectares of mountain
conservancy with 87 red data plants. This is an increasingly
popular day out for all age groups and all who seek
mountain rejuvenation and engaging with true nature.
Most love this experience as a highlight - Picnic lunch
Optional Just ask on booking !!!
Morning tour: 08h00 sharp in summer
(Nov – March) and 09h30 in winter (Apr –
Oct)
Afternoon tour: 14h30 in summer (Nov
– March) and 13h30 in winter (Apr – Oct)
What does it cost?
R345pp for Ride & Hike
Children under 8yrs – free of charge
Children 8-12 ½ price
Price includes – driver, field guide, refreshments
en-route, permits, taxes and a sense of humour.
Boland Overnight Adventure Trail
 This
hike is ideal for anyone. A short trip in our 4 x 4
open canopied vehicles takes you in comfort & safety
to Landroskop along Boland trail in the Hottentots Holland
Nature Reserve. Overnight gear is dropped off at an
old fashioned mountain hut before the hike. The hike
starts from here following a trail to and around Sneeukop
reaching ±1930m above sea level and then back
to the cabin for some rest and relaxation around a central
log fire, candles, dinner and storytelling. Up early
for a further walk or just relax before breakfast and
head off down the mountain. We return to base at the
Eikenhof Dam in the morning, about 11 – 12.
Here you get the chance to
explore one of the world’s most spectacular mountain
floral kingdoms. Fynbos is largely underrated and undiscovered
by many people. We have, in
association with Cape Nature, assembled a package for
anybody seeking to
enjoy spectacular views and rare plants and who enjoy
a rejuvenating experience.
You need to bring:
Basic over night apparel
Sleeping bag
Pillow
Sun block
Torch
Comfortable hiking shoes
(Bookings for this trail need to be made at least 1
week in advance)
This is a fun, adventurous, educational tour with a
guide, who takes care of your needs!!
What does it cost?
R 1200.00 pp 2 min people
R 1080.00 pp 3 or more – max 8 people
kids under 8 years R100 –
kids under 12years Half price
Price includes – lunch, dinner, breakfast, overnight
accommodation, driver, field guide, refreshments en-route,
permits, taxes and a sense of humour.
EXCELLENT VALUE FOR MONEY!
Telephone: 021 859
1989
Mobile: 083 461 4567
International: (+27 21) 859 1989
Email: motorcycles@naturediscovery.co.za
Website: www.naturediscovery.co.za
Tri Active takes you on
a journey that explores the beauty of the Elgin Valley
and the Green Mountain Eco Route with its endless mountain
peaks and valleys. Choose from a variety of guided 4x4,
quad bike and mountain bike excursions as well as guided
nature walks, which are designed in interest groups such
as Wine & Game, Green Mountain Valley, Biodiversity
Wine Route, Brandy & Wine, Flowers & Fynbos, Around
the Groenlandberg etc.
 Experience
the traditional clay pigeon shooting, using Winchester
Defender and Remington Wingmaster 12 gauge pump action
shotguns. The clay pigeon, thrown from a conventional
clay launcher, soars through the air as you try to shatter
it with a direct hit. It's addictive, it's fun and it's
challenging. Pre-booking essential. Price of activity
will vary depending on number of shots. Please contact
us for a quote.
 Experience
an exhilirating abseil in the gorges alongside the Groenlandberg.
A challenging cliff where you conquer your fears under
the guidance of our experienced ropes facilitators.
This is an activity you will want to repeat again and
again once the thrill sets in. Pre-bookings are essential.
A minimum of 6 people required to confirm a booking.
Price: R375 pp
Cany and Anton Bugler
Tel: +27 21 844 0975
Fax: +27 21 844 0970
Cell: +27 83 456 2181
Email: info@triactive.co.za
Website: www.triactive.co.za
See tour options
Duration: Two hours
Price: R375 pp
Minimum No: 4 people
Maximum No: 20 people
Enjoy an exhilarating mountain bike
ride through the Green Mountain Eco Route. The ride
leads through vineyards, orchards and fynbos areas.
En route you can stop off to enjoy the beautiful scenery
over the countryside and taste some of the excellent
wines of the area. The excursion focuses on the nature
and wine aspect with descriptions of the biosphere concept,
the winemaking in the area, the interesting history
of these early farms where the ox-wagons passed in times
gone by, and just the sheer pleasure of the outdoors.
The excursion is approximately two hours in duration
with stops for refreshments en route.
Tri Active Events Management
Cany & Anton Bugler
Tel: +27 21 844 0975
Fax: +27 21 844 0970
Cell: +27 83 456 2181
Email: info@triactive.co.za
Website: www.triactive.co.za
Hike
Itinerary
Arrive previous night at Porcupine Hills anytime from
16h00, park car, wine tasting, dinner & overnight
Day
1: Walking in the Kogelberg Conservancy Core
Breakfast at Porcupine Hills.
Transfer to Kogelberg Biosphere fringe.
Walk along the top of the Groenlandberg through the
Biosphere Core to Nuweberg.
Transfer to Porcupine Hills.
Dinner & overnight
Day
2: Through Fynbos & Vines
Transfer to Nuweberg.
Baggage to Wildekrans Country House.
Walk through vineyards and fynbos along the foot of
the Groenlandberg.
Picnic lunch on Oak Valley Wine Estate
Continue to Paul Cluver Wine Estate
Wine tasting & afternoon tea.
Transfer to Wildekrans Country House, Houw Hoek Village.
Dinner & overnight.
Day
3: Game & forests
Transfer to Paul Cluver sometime after Wildekrans breakfast.
Begin walking through Paul Cluver game and Poplar forest.
Break after game camps.
Lunch under trees at Wildekrans Country House
Afternoon at leisure, option to do 7km Houw Hoek Trail.
Wine tasting, dinner & overnight at Wildekrans Country
House
Day
4: Leopard & Ox Wagon Route
Breakfast at Wildekrans Country House.
Head towards Bot River through Biosphere fynbos
Rest stop at Stony Beach and ledge rock. Climb up Pincushion
ridge and discover Hawston View
Walk into Bot River and experience Beaumont Wines and
lunch in Bot River village
Transfer to Porcupine Hills, refresh and collect your
car.
*Itinerary
subject to change due to unforeseen conditions or changing
seasons.
*Optional extras – early arrivals and light lunch,
transfers to airport, drinks.
Tel: +27 28
284 9827
Tel: +27 28 284 9066
Email:
info@greenmountaintrail.co.za
Website: www.greenmountaintrail.co.za
Duration: Two hours
Price: R250 pp
Minimum No: 2 people
Maximum No: 10 people per group
Take a walk through the Elgin Valley
enjoying the magnificent views of the surrounding Groenlandberg.
Nature at its best, this pristine area is home to some
of the finest fynbos with some rare red data species
amongst the more common plants on the slopes of the
mountain.
A challenging route, but suitable for anyone of average
fitness. The excursion focuses on the nature aspect
including a walk through the game area where fine species
of antelope can be seen. It is approximately two to
three hours in duration with stops for refreshments
en route. You can also taste some of the finest wines
of the area on the world’s first biodiversity
wine route.
Tri Active Events Management
Cany & Anton Bugler
Tel: +27 21
844 0975
Fax: +27 21 844 0970
Cell: +27 83 456 2181
Email: info@triactive.co.za
Website: www.triactive.co.za
In operation since 2002, Nature Discovery
embraces the concept of “hiking-on-wheels,”
a unique and possibly revolutionary means of experiencing
the majesty of the Cape Fynbos region.
 A
variety of quads are available – ATV quad bikes,
150cc bikes for our younger riders as well as 300cc
automatics and for the more experienced, 400cc and 500cc
machines that have been specifically chosen to provide
our riders and passengers with safety and the greatest
comfort. Quad’s include low noise exhaust systems
and low impact tyres. Our support vehicle, a 4x4 Ranger
accompanies most tours and on request, customers may
choose to enjoy the tours in this open-air vehicle rather
than on quads.
All tours are led by FGASA qualified
tour guides and include short walks and stop-offs where
our guides will inform you about the region, one that
is situated on the western slopes of the Worlds First
Biosphere Reserve the Kogelberg a unique Biosphere home
to some of the rarest plants on earth. A short walk
to the Gantouw pass is the ideal opportunity to see
the original wagon route, used by the early Cape pioneers
for 200 years.
A variety of trails, from easy-to-handle
beginner trails to the more technical are available.
All trails were mapped-out in conjunction with Cape
Nature in an effort to minimize ecological impact or
interference.
Day tours are available with snacks,
drinks and a picnic-style lunch included at the waterfall.
Other options include half day tours, two and three
day excursions as well as ‘sunset tours’
during the gorgeous summer months. Overnight accommodation
is also available.
Tours include a pre-ride safety talk
before setting off at either 09:00 or 14:00 daily. Permits,
helmets, gloves and goggles are also included.
We at Nature Discovery are all very
passionate about our environment and strive to inform
and educate our clients about the importance of conservation
and the need to both protect and treasure this ecological
gem, so join us where spectacular scenery, rare plant-life,
unique geological formations and an amazing adventure
awaits you!
Booking is essential
Brian or Ilze
Tel: 021 859 1989
Cell: 083 461 4567
Email: motorcycles@naturediscovery.co.za
Website: www.naturediscovery.co.za
Our quad biking trails are operated in the Elgin Valley
area along the Green Mountain Eco Route, on private
farm lands and conservancy areas for which we have concessions.
All trails are led by a registered guide. Stringent
safety regulations are enforced and safety equipment
such as helmets and goggles are supplied.
Choose from a variety of options,
different in the experience and duration to suit your
interest.
Tri Active Events Management
Cany & Anton Bugler
Tel: +27 21 844 0975
Fax: +27 21 844 0970
Cell: +27 83 456 2181
Email: info@triactive.co.za
Website: www.triactive.co.za
See tour options
Houwhoek
trout dams Set under shady trees, we have three dams
well stocked with Rainbow trout. Try the art of fly
fishing. Fly and normal rods can be hired and a limited
stock of trout fishing tackle is available for sale.
Houw Hoek Farm Stall
Tel: (028) 284 9015 (Clive)
Website: www.houwhoekfarmstall.co.za
Email: info@houwhoekfarmstall.co.za
Taron will take you on Diepklowe Nature Reserve.
Tel/Fax: 028-284 9066
Website:
www.porcupinehills.co.za
Email: info@porcupinehills.co.za
Reservations
Tel: (021) 659 3500
Fax: (021) 659 3409
Email: hcassels@capenature.co.za
Tariff: Adults R24 children R12 (from 1 April 2005 to
31 March 2006)
Trail Distance: 22km (7 hours)
Nearest Town: Grabouw
Region: Boland
Trail description: This is a moderate out and back route.
The terrain is rugged and mountainous, with 1 300 mountain
fynbos species and 110 bird species. It provides spectacular
views. Hikers should be fit, experienced and well-equipped
for extreme weather. Due to the dangers of severe weather
and flooding rivers, the route could be temporarily
closed under extreme conditions. Fires and braais are
forbidden except at demarcated sites.
Tariff: Adults R20 children R10 (from 1 April 2004 to
31 March 2005)
Trail Distance: 8km (3 hours)
Nearest Town: Botriver - 6km
Region: Overberg
Trail description: This is a moderate walk with views
over Houwhoek and the Groenlandberg Conservancy area.
It leads through diverse fynbos vegetation.
Tariff: Adults R50 per trail, Scholars R40 per trail
Trail distance: Day 1: 21km (6-7 hours), Day 2: 16km
(8 hours)
Trail limit: 10 hikers
Accommodation: Accommodation is available at the start
on Iona farm. The Frank Robb hut in the Kleinmond Municipal
caravan park can also be booked as an overnight facility,
or hikers can make their own sleeping arrangements...
Book the hut by phoning Pietie Fredericks (028-271-8124).
The hut, which is furnished with bunk beds, fridge,
electricity, and microwave, shares the ablution facilities
of the caravan park.
Ride & Hike touring is providing something a little
different. We KNOW you’ll like the concept.
Ride & Hike takes you and your friends to the top
of the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve rarely seen
by most. A short ride in a 4 x 4 ranger vehicle enables
you to explore deep into pristine Fynbos areas with
endless breathtaking views where walking is an absolute
privilege and pleasure.
Heavens
Heights Adventure Trail:
This trail sets off through forest, crossing a couple
of rivers and climbs steadily up to the Gantouw or Eland
Pass, the original wagon route of the Dutch and British
settlers, over the Mountains of Africa, so called in
the old days. This route was used for 150 years and
following the migratory Eland, one of the oldest and
steepest and most treacherous passes in the Western
Cape. Even today one can still see the deep gouges in
the rocks, made by the brakes of the wagons, as they
descended the precipitous pass down through what is
now Somerset West from the lush grazing area of the
Elgin Valley. The signal canon system of the old Cape
Settlers can be seen as we take a short walk to the
top of the pass. Surrounded by unusual rock formations
formed from the Cape Fold mountain system can also be
photographed. The pass was declared a National Monument
in 1958.
We hop on the Ranger, drive
through two valleys of rich pristine Fynbos at the base
of Hans-se-kop and take a further walk along a river
where unusual Restios and Ericoide families can be photographed.
Hopping back on the ranger we ascend the steep climb
to the Hans-se-kop Mountain, ascending to ±1200m
above sea level to one of the most spectacular views
in the southern hemisphere, unique views of False Bay
and the Kogelburg Mt Range to the far South. There you
can see the two oceans, Indian and Atlantic quite clearly.
This trail passes through one of the hot spot bird watching
sights.
Nature Discovery has taken great care and attention
to access the best possible routes for visitors. The
tours are professionally run and by in large most say
the highlight of their holiday.
Morning tour: 08h00 sharp in summer
(Nov – March) and 09h30 in winter (Apr –
Oct)
Afternoon tour: 14h30 in summer (Nov
– March) and 13h30 in winter (Apr – Oct)
What does it cost?
R345pp for Ride & Hike
Children under 8yrs – free of charge
Children 8-12 ½ price
Price includes – driver, field guide, refreshments
en-route, permits, taxes and a sense of humour.
EXCELLENT VALUE FOR MONEY!
Green Mountain Eco Route
Approx. 3-5 hours total 1-2 hrs hike/walk
The Cape Floral kingdom is the smallest yet richest
plant kingdom on earth and is internationally recognized
as a biodiversity hot spot and South Africa’s
latest world heritage sight widely known as the Kogelberg
Biosphere Reserve. There is approximately only 9% of
unique Renosterveld and low-land coastal Fynbos eco-systems
left.
The
Green Mountain Eco Route trail travels from our base
at the Elgin/Grabouw Country Club next to the large
Eikenhof Lake. We pack up our open canopied 4 x 4 ranger
with refreshments, binoculars, camera and high spirits,
traveling to a thousand meter view point through the
Nuweberg Forest, past lakes ascending the Green Mountain
on a jeep track passing many spectacular Fynbos habitats
as we gain altitude. There we hop off and walk 1 –
2 hrs amongst these rare plants on a fairly easy walking
trail viewing far to the South West. Some of the best
views in the world! As we walk along the ridges we discuss
the history of the area and identify many rare and spectacular
natural phenomena. There are 5000 hectares of mountain
conservancy with 87 red data plants. This is an increasingly
popular day out for all age groups and all who seek
mountain rejuvenation and engaging with true nature.
Most love this experience as a highlight - Picnic lunch
Optional Just ask on booking !!!
Morning tour: 08h00 sharp in summer
(Nov – March) and 09h30 in winter (Apr –
Oct)
Afternoon tour: 14h30 in summer (Nov
– March) and 13h30 in winter (Apr – Oct)
What does it cost?
R345pp for Ride & Hike
Children under 8yrs – free of charge
Children 8-12 ½ price
Price includes – driver, field guide, refreshments
en-route, permits, taxes and a sense of humour.
Boland Overnight Adventure Trail
This
hike is ideal for anyone. A short trip in our 4 x 4
open canopied vehicles takes you in comfort & safety
to Landroskop along Boland trail in the Hottentots Holland
Nature Reserve. Overnight gear is dropped off at an
old fashioned mountain hut before the hike. The hike
starts from here following a trail to and around Sneeukop
reaching ±1930m above sea level and then back
to the cabin for some rest and relaxation around a central
log fire, candles, dinner and storytelling. Up early
for a further walk or just relax before breakfast and
head off down the mountain. We return to base at the
Eikenhof Dam in the morning, about 11 – 12.
Here you get the chance to
explore one of the world’s most spectacular mountain
floral kingdoms. Fynbos is largely underrated and undiscovered
by many people. We have, in
association with Cape Nature, assembled a package for
anybody seeking to
enjoy spectacular views and rare plants and who enjoy
a rejuvenating experience.
You need to bring:
Basic over night apparel
Sleeping bag
Pillow
Sun block
Torch
Comfortable hiking shoes
(Bookings for this trail need to be made at least 1
week in advance)
This is a fun, adventurous, educational tour with a
guide, who takes care of your needs!!
What does it cost?
R 1200.00 pp 2 min people
R 1080.00 pp 3 or more – max 8 people
kids under 8 years R100 –
kids under 12years Half price
Price includes – lunch, dinner, breakfast, overnight
accommodation, driver, field guide, refreshments en-route,
permits, taxes and a sense of humour.
EXCELLENT VALUE FOR MONEY!
Telephone: 021 859
1989
Mobile: 083 461 4567
International: (+27 21) 859 1989
Email: motorcycles@naturediscovery.co.za
Website: www.naturediscovery.co.za
Groenlandberg Trail
Tariff: Adults R24 Children R12
Description: This moderate out-and-back route is 22km
long and leads up to Groenlandberg, where cyclists will
be treated to views over the sea and nearby farms. On
a clear day you will be able to see as far as Hermanus
and Kleinmond.
Nearest Town: Grabouw
Region: Boland
Special Interests: Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve is
well-known for its hiking opportunities, as it is home
to the well-known Boland Hiking Trail. This mountain bike
trail, however, also allows visitors the opportunity to
explore the area's fynbos wealth.
Prohibitions and hazards: Fires only permitted in demarcated
areas; no picking of flowers allowed; carry permits at
all times.
Trail Distance: 22 km
Reservations
Tel: (021) 659 3500
Fax: (021) 659 3409
Email: hcassels@capenature.co.za
on the R321 near Grabouw
On the 4th of April 2008, to
coincide with the Absa Cape Epic mountain bike event
which overnighted on the Estate, proprietor Anthony
Rawbone-Viljoen was proud to announce the launch of
The Oak Valley Mountain Biking Experience in his welcome
address to the organisers and the top 1200 international
bikers from different countries around the world.
Established by Pieter Visser, the
Oak Valley winemaker, who is himself a keen mountain
biker, the trail covers a total of 21 kms with one or
two hills that are definitely fodder for ‘the
mountain goats’. Close to half the distance is
single track biking, with bridges over farm fences and
streams, making for a highly enjoyable ride.
The biking trail takes the rider through
beautiful natural scenery, including forests of ancient
oak trees, through vineyards, through apple and pear
orchards and across sub-clover/grass pastures, set against
the stunning backdrop of the protected fynbos on the
slopes of the Groenlandberg Mountain. The fee is R20
per participant, payable at the security office located
at the entrance gate to the Estate.
The trial has been described
by expert mountain bikers as the best of its kind in
the Western Cape.
Tel: 021 859 4110
Fax: 021 859 3405
Website: www.oakvalleywines.com
Email:
wines@oak-valley.co.za
|
Tri Active Mountain Bike Excursion
Tri Active Guided Nature Walk
Nature
Discovery Tours is an independent tour operator, situated
in the Elgin-Grabouw region that specializes in motorcycle
and quad adventures – with a twist. 
Houw Hoek Farm Stall
