Oude Molen blazes red

ANYONE who happened to drive past the Oude Molen Distillery last Sunday, would have had to stop and admire the blaze of red that would have caught their eye. Red Ferraris lined the parking lot including the very impressive 430 Scuderia which is the fastest road going Ferrari yet built and is worth in excess of R4 million!

The Ferrari Club spent the afternoon at the Oude Molen Distillery and enjoyed a cellar tour, a tasting and a delicious buffet style lunch which was perfectly finished off with Oude Molen’s famous brandy pudding, cappucinos and of course the Oude Molen VOV which is matured for 14 years to create its distinctive rich complexity. The brandy has a mellow smoothness and a rich amber colour and hints of wood and nuttiness on the nose. The slightly sweet notes of vanilla and a soft spiciness on the palate give a long lingering and satisfying finish. Local wines were available to purchase and the Oak Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009 as well as the Paul Cluver Sauvignon Blanc 2008 received rave reviews from the Ferrari owners and their guests and certainly kept flowing well into the afternoon.

The Oude Molen Brandy Distillery offers unique and informative tours and tastings. Spacious conference facilities are available and the dedicated staff will ensure hands on organising and meticulous attention to detail. The Distillery is also the perfect location for functions and events with ample parking available and various accommodation options in the vicinity.

Oude Molen will be launching four new products in the next couple of months including a single barrel, solera, XO and a product that you will be able to bottle yourself at the Distillery at cask strength. They are also in the process of completing a fabulous tasting area as well as a function venue overlooking the vineyards. Very exciting developments which we’ll keep you updated on.

The staff at Oude Molen encourage all locals who haven’t ever visited the Distillery to come on a distillery tour or to just pop in and take a look at the facilities. It’s well worth the visit!

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Visitors enjoying lunch in the Wildcats Restaurant at Tri Active.

Tri Active kicks high into 2010

TRI ACTIVE EVENTS Management with their Green Mountain Lodge have started the year off with a great impact, welcoming guests from the United States early on in January and showing them the warm hospitality of the Elgin Valley and the Green Mountain Eco Route.

Comments from the young group left no doubt that they were overawed with the beauty and diversity of the Valley and in true style the Wildcats Restaurant and Pub hosted them to a night not to be forgotten with dance competitions between the visitors and locals, and a bit of late night revelling!

Now into the exciting 2010 year with high expectations from all, Tri Active has also altered the management structure with some new appointments to the team. I have taken over the full managing role of the business broadening my portfolio with the lodge, restaurant, operations and marketing under my management.

Riaan Swart, known to many locals, has joined our dynamic team as the chef with his excellent skills and meals testimony to his experience. Nikki Kotze heading up the office has previous expertise in the events industry and has made her mark by increased client liaison and efficient service on the admin and event side.

Willem Cupido, has grown within the company and is a total success story… starting as a trainee three years ago with no working experience, he is now a fully fledged facilitator and front of house supervisor with increased responsibilities and lots more talent emerging daily! Anton has moved away from day to day management of the business, to allow for the full utilisation of his ingenious design ability to develop some truly dynamic designs for the event industry.

Service excellence is the order of the day within the Tri Active team, and every opportunity is used to grow the team by increased in-house training and attending outside training courses.

Much exposure for all on the many events that Tri Active is involved in, ensures that we remain “up top” with the leaders.

The drumming sessions are a real hit on the first Saturday of each month. The Wildcats Pub and Restaurant is open for the public on Fridays and Saturdays and the venue is very popular for the special functions and corporate teambuilding and conferencing events it is well known for.

Kicking off into the 2010 World Cup, Tri Active has some interesting visitors lined up for the winter period which will take us through to the

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Elgin Vintners 2009 Voignier is a ‘celebration of power and elegance’

EVEN Sandile the leopard cannot resist our Viognier! The picture below is not photo shopped.

Sandile is a wild leopard who has made the prestigious Shamwari Game Reserve outside Addo in the Eastern Cape her home. Sandile was orphaned as a young leopard when a pack of lions killed her mother. The neighbouring farm took over the care of her brother but Sandile was viewed as a bit of a runt and sold cheaply to Shamwari. How wrong she has proved them! She is now a magnificent (and curious) specimen. Raised by game ranger John O’Brian and re-introduced to the wild, Sandile retains a special affection for John. If John knows the area she is in, he can whistle and she will seek him out. On this particular game drive, Sandile could not resist exploring what it was that John was planning to open for his clients.

Thankfully you do not have to fight off the wild game to experience our recently released 2009 Viognier. Vinified by Niels Verburg, fermented and matured for 8 months in Romanian oak prior to bottling in October, the Elgin Vintners 2009 Viognier is available from our Tasting Room or Peregrine and Houwhoek Farmstalls at the cellar door price of R90.00 per bottle. Described as a “celebration of power and elegance” (not unlike Sandile, but a whole lot safer), the Elgin Vintners Viognier displays notes of fresh apricots, peaches and baked apples with a touch of citrus freshness. We recommend that you serve it as an accompaniment to spicy dishes such as Thai Green Curry or with Sushi. Even better still, sip it whilst out in nature, on a game drive or in the fynbos of the Kogelberg. Contact the Elgin Vintners office for further details or sales: 021-848 9587 - NICKY WALLACE

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Shannon Vineyards – conservation in action

USING state-of-the-art movement sensitive cameras imported from America, the Downes family from Shannon Vineyards strives to photograph animals known to be present on the wine estate and also hopes for a few surprises including the cape mountain leopard.

“This process of capturing our wildlife on film does not only back up our regular sighting as documented proof but also provides an element of fun for our staff on the farm to their daily activities, and in turn provides the wildlife with a sense of belonging. We would like to challenge all wine farms to arm at the very least their vineyard managers with one of these easy to use low cost cameras and engage in documenting what they regard as their BIG 5 and other wildlife animals found in and around their vineyards, and in doing so will provide Nature Conservation another tool to determine the status of wildlife populations found living in or visiting the winelands.”

Locally Shannon Vineyards has excelled in the 2010 Platter results. Both the Sauvignon Blanc 2008 and the Mount Bullet Merlot 2007 received 4½ stars whilst the Pinot Noir 2006 received 4 stars. The Shannon Sauvignon Blanc was also nominated by Platter as a wine to “buy now (as in 2009) and drink later.” This holds true as the Shannon Sauvignon Blanc 2008 is drinking beautifully and will do so for another few years. This is also a trend found to be expressed by most Sauvignon Blancs from the Elgin Valley as they actually drink at their best the year after the vintage. The Mount Bullet Merlot 2007 was also nominated by Platter as one of their wines which they list as “highly recommended.”

Internationally in the Hugh Johnson 2010 Wine guide Shannon Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir are listed as wines he recommends and Shannon Vineyards is also listed as one of five

South African wine estates to watch in 2010.

All in all a very successful year for the team at Shannon Vineyards and everyone is looking forward to the release of the 2009 Sauvignon Blanc in mid to end February and the next vintages of Pinot Noir and Mount Bullet Merlot in May this year. Look out for the release of “Macushla” - which is a 375ml Pinot Noir Noble Late Harvest. Macushla is Irish for “my darling” as the wine represents a little darling of a desert wine in the Shannon Vineyards portfolio. - James Downes

To see video clips of baboons and other animals in the vineyards, go to the “caught on camera” page in their website: www.shannonwines.com

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Good times for Oak Valley

TIME has not stood still at Oak Valley ... A major highlight was the announcement in November naming Oak Valley as the overall winner of the inaugural Nedbank Best Environmental Practices Award at a function held in the Mount Nelson’s Cape Colony restaurant.

The award is deeply satisfying for all at Oak Valley as it recognises our efforts in pursuing sustainable farming practices, whilst at the same time preserving our priceless fynbos heritage under the wine industry’s Biodiversity and Wine Initiative banner.

The results of the 2010 Platter Wine Guide have now been published and Oak Valley has been rewarded with four 4½ star awards and one 4 star wine. This impressive result means that no Oak Valley wine has been awarded less than 4 stars in this benchmark publication since our first vintage was released in 2003. Not many wineries can boast a track record of consistent quality to match that! Looking ahead, and with an inside knowledge of future vintages in the cellar at present, our view is that we can do even better.

The Oak Valley Pinot Noir 2009, a 4½ star Platter wine was the only SA wine to win gold at the 2009 Mondial de Pinot Noir held in Switzerland in September. The same wine won the Diamond Award for winemaker, Pieter Visser, in the Winemakers Choice Awards programme announced in October.

The new high density (10 000 vines per hectare) Pinot Noir block will hopefully give us even more fruit concentration when this comes into bearing in 2011, and we look forward to this event with great anticipation.

The existing block is situated at 450 metres above sea level, on a site which has never yielded more than 3,8 tons per hectare. Growing conditions on the mountain slope are difficult but it is a classic example of hardship creating character.

Oak Valley will once again be hosting the ABSA Cape Epic mountain bike race on the farm from the 26th to the 28th of March 2010. This gruelling endurance race takes place over 8 days and 2010 will be the third consecutive year that the farm has been used as a stage location.

Whilst my contribution has happily been restricted to the firing of the start-gun, I have developed an enormous respect for the sheer athleticism of the contestants who come from countries around the globe. It is the most televised biking event after the Tour de France itself with its reputation growing by the year and we are proud to be a part of the race’s success.

Our own MTB trail has grown in popularity by leaps and bounds, partly driven by the Cape Epic exposure, but also because it has become known as one of the finest rides in the Cape.

-Anthony Rawbone-Viljoen

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Fine conservation, Fine food

VILLA EXNER is renowned as an exclusive boutique hotel, set in the heart of the Elgin Valley and the Green Mountain Eco Route, the world’s firt biodeversity route. And one of its many luxurious features, is its fine dining.

The owner, Sascha Sulliman-Exner, has at great expense blended his own conservation principals and those of his surroundings into stripping down the environmental impact of his five star establishment to the absolute minimum (ELGIN Grabouwer 29/09/09). This approach is extended to the kitchen and all supplies are as far as possible sourced locally.

Though popular with vistors from abroad, locals in the know realise that they can share in the pleasures enjoyed by esteemed visitors such as sir Richard Branson. Sulliman-Exner’s mother, Sabine Exner, (pictured above) runs the fine dining and locals can book ahead for Friday or Saturday evenings for five course fine dining meals with the best selection of Elgin Valley wines.

A sample menu supplied by Sulliman Exner included Sweet Melon and Black Forest Ham on Rocket Salad with Sweet Wine Chilli Vinaigrette; Sorbet; Cape Salmon Grilled with Spinach, Green Asparagus and Potato Mash with Chardonnay Cream finished off with Home-Made Ice Cream with fresh Summer Berries.

Locals will feel at home and familiar with the choice of Elgin Valley wines, spiced with interesting choices from the Stellenbosch region, including the interesting offerings from the eccentric winemaker José Conde.

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PUT a spring in your step and join us in celebrating the start of summer! On the open gardens weekends, come and wander through the Beaumont gardens of vivid colours and perfumed flowers.

At the same time, you can quench your thirst with our unique wines, satisfy your hunger with delicious food and take yourself back in time with a visit to our historic mill. We serve brunches, lunches and high tea by Zest Catering.

Experience sitting on the stoep overlooking the willow clad dam in our free flowing country garden surrounding the historic homestead with the oldest wine cellar and water mill in the Overberg.

The open gardens are scheduled for the weekends of 31 October and 1 November 2009, from 10h00 - 17h00 and on 7 and 8 November 2009, from 10h00 - 17h00.

We are gearing up for the 3rd annual Bot River Barrel Race starting at 11am on Saturday 31 October 2009.

Only a limited number of teams can enter so download the entry form and fax back to secure your spot. And for the very energetic you can start the day with a mountain bike ride or a fun run or walk.

All funds generated are going to the Bot River Education Foundation.

To get you into the mood, have a look at the pictures from last year's race. The Bot River station will be the centre of the action, with a farmer’s market, food, live music, prizes and (of course) lots of wine.

For entries, please visit www.botriverwines.co.za

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Experience ‘green’ at Wildekrans wine estate

MANY people experience different things at Wildekrans Wine Estate.

In this extract, written by one of our visitors, he tells more on what he experienced on his visit:

“A while back I was fortunate enough to take a drive off the beaten track and took a left turn into Wildekrans Wine Estate. The first thing that struck me when I entered the gates was that this was a BIG farm with loads of natural vegetation, right at the gate. No wall-to-wall vineyards, I had read on their website that they are part of the Biodiversity Wine Initiative, and it was clear for me to see their commitment to keeping things ‘natural’.

“Once I was done in the tasting room I asked if I could take a walk around a small portion of the farm. Melissa Naudé, the ever charming marketing manager, plotted a route for me and sent me on my way. What a great experience unfolded around me. Down past the orchards in full bloom, Wildekrans are using bees to naturally propagate their orchards the ‘natural’ way.

“Next I was in the middle of a field of the brightest yellow flowers I had seen in ages. Like something out a movie, I simply lay down in the middle of them, feeling kind of childlike, taking in the quiet and the beauty around me. I walked through the vineyards towards the dams, and down to the river, where I was (and this sounds clichéd, but I think this happens every day on the farm) surrounded by swallows, maybe 300 of them, swooping down into feeding mode on the insects which had risen by my presence.

“As the wind swoops in their wings (read: so quiet I could hear the sound of the air as it rushed over their wings) I just stood there, surrounded by birds, in the riverbed, totally in awe, with a sense of freedom I have not experienced since I was a child.

“As the birds disappeared (the bugs must have been history by now) I cruised back, semi euphoric/stupid-smile-on-my-face, to the Manor House, where a friendly dog greeted me back, completing the experience. The natural beauty and the efforts to not let the vineyards overpower the farm are astonishing on the farm. More ‘green’ I could not imagine. Thank you Wildekrans for the chance (and the route) to be involved in that moment, where I became 10 years younger for an hour, and felt like I had been away from civilisation for years.” - Raoul de Jongh

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Experience yesteryear at Botrivier Hotel

THE Botrivier Hotel and Pub is an historical building, built during the early 1880s and used to be the traditional stopover for travellers crossing the Houwhoek Pass.

The establishment offers the best in hospitality and heritage that Botrivier has to offer.

On entering you feel as if you have travelled back in time, surrounded by all the past memorabilia.

This is the local’s pub. It is a character-filled, old building filled with interesting characters. The present owner, Herman Gey von Pittius, is trying to give back to the community through his business which has been in the family for years, especially through supporting local soccer. The pub serves meals such as burger and chips and spare ribs. Then there is Die Blaasbalk, a family restaurant which offers delicious Sunday lunches at affordable prices.

Some nights there are live performances on the stoep in front of the hotel and often local talent performs on the stage. There are several beers on tap on offer and over the weekends, the old pub is a favourite place amongst locals and others to watch the rugby. Tel: 028 284 9640

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DIE winter is verby of sal ek sê amper verby. Thandi Farm Kitchen bestuur en personeel bedank al sy kliënte vir een van die beter winters, danksy ondersteuning van plaaslike kliënte.

Thandi, een van die suksesvolste grondhervormingsprojekte in Suider-Afrika, bied meer en meer aan plaaslike en internasio-nale besoekers. Verskeie faktore beïnvloed ons sukses en innoverende denke.

Thandi is die enigste padstal/restaurant op die N2 waar kliënte vars vrugte en groente en wêreldklas wyne kan geniet wat op sy eie perseel en plaas groei. Daar is ook 'n bergfietsroete wat strek oor 8km en by ander roetes aansluit, 'n “jungle gym” vir die kleinspan en 40ha skaars fynbos wat in samewerking met Cape Nature bewaar word vir opvoedkundige uitstappies. Ons bied ook verjaarsdagpartytjies en korporatiewe funksies vir groepe wat wissel van 10 – 60 aan. Honde eienaars en families kan ongestoord by Thandi gaan stap en die ongelooflike kalmerende Elgin koel klimaat en die oorgang van seisoene in al hul prag ervaar.

Opgewondenheid heers op die oomblik by Thandi oor die beplande piekniek-area op die rivierwalle. Die eerste bome is reeds geplant en die grasperke begin vorm kry.

In Oktober en November word 'n nuutjie beplan. Bekende sjefs gaan 'n beperkte aantal gaste op 'n 4- gang maal, gekomplementeer met Thandi wyne, trakteer. 'n Internasionale restauranteienaar besoek ons vroeg in Oktober, waarna ons hoop om Thandi na die buiteland te neem.

- SEWIS VAN DER HORST

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SOUTH HILL, on the cool mountain plateau of Elgin has, since 2001, been transformed from a neglected apple and pear producer to an exclusive boutique wine farm with 28ha under vine.

South Hill, The Vineyards, Venue and Restaurant combine a relaxed country atmosphere with uncompromised luxury and elegance which is evident in our accommodation and world class function venue, the hottest new setting for couples seeking a special country wedding.

With acclaimed chef Gordon Manuel teaming up with South Hill, the best kept secret in the Elgin Valley has just become even more enticing.

Now the art of food and wine have been joined by fine art with the opening of RED! an art gallery’s commercial exhibition at our venue.

With spectacular surroundings, and abundant bird and wild life, it is sometimes hard to believe such serenity can be found so close to Cape Town and just five minutes drive from the busy N2.

Once experienced, you too will realise that this tranquil piece of paradise will not remain the Cape's best kept secret for much longer.

Come and enjoy a memorable gastronomic experience paired with our award winning Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Rose wines, all less than an hours drive from Cape Town.

Open for tasting Monday- Friday 9am to 5pm, Weekends 11am to 3pm. - SEAN SKIBBE

The Restaurant is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 12 pm to 3 pm for lunch and on Saturday for dinner.

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TRI ACTIVE Events Management who own and operate the Green Mountain Lodge are buoyant despite the ongoing forecasts of doom and gloom in the world economics.

We have used these quieter times to great effect, said Cany Bugler, marketing manager of the company. The Wildcats Restaurant and Pub has been refurbished and opened to the general public on Fridays and Saturdays, remaining available for functions and events as before and also during the busy weekday periods. The lodge is a popular venue for corporate and private functions, and with the new dedicated conferencing/function area on track, it has increased the demand for the venue. Individuals, families and friends are also making good use of the lodge when they come to the area to enjoy the amazing mountain biking trails and outdoor activities in the Elgin Valley. Another development is the onset of the monthly drumming sessions at Wildcats, giving everyone an opportunity to let their hair down, de-stress and then enjoy a great evening at the restaurant.

To ensure that we capitalised on the general availability of the local tourism industry in these times, we recently ran our annual three day Great Networking Trek at the beginning of August and entertained 125 key managers and senior travel staff in a vibrant and fun environment at the Green Mountain Lodge. We partnered with NH Lord Charles, Ferrymans, Oak Valley Wines, Wild Africa Cream, Hylton Ross and Cape Sidecars, to give the industry a dynamic day of networking, activities and hospitality, focusing their attention on the Elgin Valley and the wide variety of options that exist when booking an event with Tri Active. Pictured above are some of the participants during one of the “Ready, Steady, Cook” activities having a great time and enjoying a glass of fine Oak Valley Wines.

We have also experienced exponential growth in our catering division, having secured contracts with sports event organisers for key international and local events. The recent Palmiet Adventure Festival on the 14th – 16th August, where Tri Active ran all the catering and bar requirements for the whole weekend, drew great numbers for the various disciplines of races from MTB to runners to kayakers, and a successful weekend was enjoyed by all.

On the conservation side of things, we have used the winter months to clear another whole section of our property from aliens and the display of fynbos on the slopes this year is simply magnificent. Our indigenous plant display that started from scratch three years ago, now boasts many varieties of protea and Erica, all flowering prolifically, and drawing in the ever increasing birdlife that we are privileged to have attracted to our Green Mountain Lodge.

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“WE try to source all our produce locally,” says Frans Groenewald, partner of the Houwhoek Restaurant/Coffee Shop. “We aim at giving visitors a true farm experience where they can sit in the countryside having a meal enjoying the best our Elgin Valley has to offer, including our local wines.

Here visitors can relax in the coffee shop in the peace and quiet of the surrounding mountain setting.”

Also on offer is the freshest fish - fish is sourced from the Overberg shores, just 30 km away. Another popular dish on the menu is the unique salad combinations which makes Houwhoek more than the usual coffee shop.

The menu changes with the seasons and new dishes appear on the menu depending on what can be sourced locally. Daily specials further enhance the choice on offer at the Coffee Shop and Restaurant. “We pride ourselves in providing a cup of real Italian coffee and the Coffee Shop has its own blend especially made up by our suppliers,” adds Groenewald. Staff are employed from neighbouring towns and farms. Only local wines from the Elgin Valley and Walker Bay areas are sold at the restaurant. Groenewald and partner Juan van der Westhuizen have just started a new venture in the Bot River area. Their Gabriëlskloof Restaurant, Deli and function venue will open on the first of September.

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Everything a-buzz at Oak Valley

“THE spring of 2008 was the wettest experienced in years, with over 200mm recorded per month during the months of September and November. Budbreak was delayed in both the vineyards and in the orchards as temperature in the spring and early summer were unusually cool, even by Elgin standards,” according to the latest newsletter from Oak Valley.

“The wet conditions eventually gave way to an abnormally dry summer, with ideal conditions for the harvest in a season where grapes matured 10-14 days later than normal. The lack of precipitation over the ripening period meant less pressure from botrytis and other fungal diseases, and grape quality was the best in years.

The fruit orchards on Oak Valley came to the party producing a record crop of apples and pears.

At Oak Valley Flowers, our brand new greenhouse, purpose-built for the production of the Inca Lily came into production for the first time in December.

The first Wagyu (Kobe beef) calves will be one year old this September and are doing exceptionally well under our growing conditions. As a result of the initial success, we have imported another batch of embryos from Australia and these will be implanted into our own host cows in June.

Also new at Oak Valley is a free range piggery which will produce pigs fed on the acorns gathered from under the 4000 plus ancient oak trees which give the farm its name. Free range pigs are a challenge as the fencing in their paddocks has to be specially anchored to prevent them from escaping into our fruit orchards, where they would cause complete mayhem. Our pigs are living in absolute luxury, as two representatives from Compassion in World Farming confirmed, after their visit to Oak Valley in February.

The first steps have been taken towards the building of our own cellar and the necessary environmental approvals are presently being sought. We conducted a formal site selection exercise in May, and the options were narrowed back to a stunning view site close to all the required infrastructure essential for the success of the project.

In the meanwhile, we have made a start with the acquisition of cellar equipment, including a new Bucher press, which Pieter Visser will use in the interim in his winemaking at the neighbouring Paul Cluver cellar. Ours will not be the big bang approach to cellar developing as we plan to implement the project in phases over time.

Like so many things in life, you only get one opportunity to do it right and our aim is to get it right the first time!”

Oak Valley is a founder member of the Groenlandberg Conservancy and also a founder member of the Green Mountain Eco Route which was formed to promote eco-tourism in the region.

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Elgin Vintners crown it all

AS the name suggests, the Elgin Vintners are located in our beautiful Elgin Valley, a high inland plateau completely surrounded by mountains some 70 km south-east of Cape Town.

The Elgin Vintners is a partnership of six dedicated grape growers who, believing in the excellence of the Elgin terroir and diversity of their vineyards, have combined their resources to produce and market a range of premium quality wines from the Elgin Valley. Their range is extensive encompassing at present 9 different wines, each reflecting the peculiarities of the terroir and the skills of their winemakers. The partners don’t believe that one winemaker can be equally passionate about all nine cultivars, they have selected leading Cape winemakers with an affinity to a particular style or cultivar, to vinify or craft their grapes. Winemakers such as Jeff Grier(Villiera), Niels Verburg (Luddite), Kevin Grant (Ataraxia), Justin Hoy (Highlands Road), Martin Meinert (Meinert wines), Gavin Patterson (Sumaridge) and Henri Kotze (Eikendal) are all excited and challenged by the prospect of making fine wines displaying all the characteristics of the Elgin terroir.

The partners of Elgin Vintners are all without exception “model farmers” and subscribe to the principals as promoted by the Biodiversity in Wine Initiative. Essentially it recognises that we need to farm sustainably and in harmony with nature. There is much benefit in promoting a healthy eco-system which in turn will benefit many farming practices. All six of the Elgin Vintners farms are members of the Groenland Conservancy and Biodiversity Wine Initiative. Between them they have over 90 hectares designated for conservancy purposes. There are many jewels to the crown but one in particular sparkles.

Alastair Moodie’s Eikenhof Farm is located alongside the Eikenhof Dam and spreads up the Groenland Mountain. Eikenhof has designated over 70 hectares of both forest and mountain fynbos for conservancy purposes. Conservation and working in harmony with nature is not a new principle. Way back some 40 years ago Mr. Douglas Moodie had the foresight to plant and establish an indigenous forest including some 50 species of indigenous trees. Some of these yellow woods are now more than 7 meters in height. Following a devastating fire in 1984 they planted approximately 2000 protea seedlings back into the area. They also have a conservation plan in place and work in collaboration with the Working for Water project which has an ongoing project to remove alien vegetation from along the banks of the Palmiet River and Eikenhof Dam.

The Elgin Vintners Agama is in fact named after the Agama atra atra, or “bloukopkoggelmander” which is found in the magnificent pincushion plants growing adjacent to the vineyards of Eikenhof. This wine is a Bordeaux style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Our maiden vintage of 2005 Agama was awarded a Gold Medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards. Our current vintage, the 2006 Agama, promises to be equally good. Sadly after one particularly genial Agama posed on one of our bottles (see the picture) a fire swept through the fynbos. We like to think however that he achieved immortality in this photoshot.

We are proud that Eikenhof Farm has been awarded Championship status by the Biodiversity Wine Initiative. They join the ranks of other greats such as Graham Beck, Vergelegen and Oak Valley.

The Elgin Vintners wines can be tasted at the Elgin Vintners Tasting Room, located on Derek Corder’s Beaulieu Farm, off the Viljoenshoop Road, Elgin. The opening hours are 9am – 5pm weekdays and by appointment over the weekends. If you are a bird lover a visit is a must. Nesting black-headed herons and spoonbills mingle with red-knobbed coot and blacksmith plover whilst it is not uncommon for a large Jackal Buzzard to witness your wine tasting from the top of the large Swamp Cyprus tree.

Elgin Vintners is a proud member of the Groenlandberg Conservancy and Green Mountain Eco-Route, which was formed to promote eco-tourism in the Elgin region.

- NICKY WALLACE

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AT Nature Discovery Tours, Brian Pickering’s innovative Ride & Hike touring is providing something a little different.

Ride & Hike tours access rarely seen areas in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve and the Green Mountain Eco Route.

A ride in a comfortable 4 x 4 ranger vehicle enables you to explore pristine fynbos areas with endless views, where walking is a privilege and pleasure. The first option, “The Heavens’ Heights Adventure Trail”, sets off through forest, crosses a couple of rivers and climbs steadily up to the Gantouw Pass, the original wagon route of the Dutch and British settlers.

This route was used for 150 years and followed the path of migratory eland antelope. It is one of the oldest, steepest and most treacherous passes in the Western Cape. The signal canon system of the old Cape Settlers can be seen at the top of the pass.

A second option includes a ride on the Ranger through two valleys with pristine fynbos at the base of Hans-se-Kop. It includes a walk along a river where unusual restios and ericas can be photographed. Hopping back on the ranger we ascend the steep climb to the Hans-se-Kop, some 1200m above sea level to one of the most spectacular views in the southern hemisphere, with unique views of False Bay and the Kogelberg mountain range.

Another option, the Green Mountain Eco Route Trail, is a 5 hour trip including a 1-2 hour hike/walk through the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve. This biodiversity hot spot is South Africa’s latest world heritage site. The trails start from the Nature Discovery base at the Elgin/Grabouw Country Club.

Contact Nature Discovery Tours at:

Tel: 021 859 1989
Web: www.naturediscovery.co.za

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ORIGINALLY a family vacation home, Villa Exner has since then been upgraded, renovated and extended to meet the highest international standards.

During the past 5 years of operation, management has been fortunate enough to welcome many returning guests, some of whom are well known local and international celebrities. Starting with only 4 luxury rooms, business has grown since to offer 11 rooms, including Luxury Open-plan Suites and One Bedroom Suites, aiming at both international leisure and local leisure and corporate clients.

Villa Exner is run by its German owner-family and they commit themselves to deliver on the promise, that nothing will go wrong. It is the return to exceptional standards, an aura of order and values - the modern interpretation of a colonial feel, almost nostalgically imperial.

Old world charmes combined with today's comforts create a safe haven of sensory beauty and uncompromising quality.

The fanatical attention to detail allows Villa Exner’s guests to escape day-to-day worries and simply relax at this oasis of tranquillity.

Villa Exner offers all modern boutique hotel facilities, including a private dining area, a fine dining restaurant with live piano music played on the Bechstein, an inviting guest lounge with log fire, wine tasting, conferencing and meeting facilites, a large sparkling salt-water swimming pool, massage treatments, a tour desk with a variety of activities on offer and a small curio shop with a selection of favourite souvenirs.

A great effort is made to introduce guests to local attractions off the beaten track such as the magnificient beauty of the area and highlights including the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve or wineries and farm stalls along the Green Mountain Eco Route.

Current specials deals for the local market start from R995 per couple/night B&B and are of exceptional value.

Web: www.villaexner.com
Tel: 021 859 3596

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Pride of Peregrine

PEREGRINE FARM STALL prides itself in supporting local producers and stimulating the Elgin Valley economy. Keeping things local promotes conservation by reducing the carbon footprint involved in transporting goods from other regions.

Peregrine stocks fresh produce, all the local cool climate wines and products of local suppliers from across the region. The Handmade in the Elgin Valley campaign is aimed at heightening the awareness and promoting the sale of locally produced goods. Supporting local producers is a way of stimulating the economy and employment. Peregrine bakes its own range of breads, quiches, tarts and other baked goods for the local market.

As part of this drive Peregrine also hosts the summer Elgin Valley Market on its premises. The Elgin Valley Market aims to provide a platform for local producers to market and sell their wares as well as attracting tourists to the region.

The Elgin Valley Tourism office is situated on the grounds and along with the Market is an important hub for visitors to the region. The Elgin Valley Market generally aims to promote fresh, organic products; a healthy, alternative lifestyle and environmentally friendly way of operating.

This eco-friendly initiative will include composting facilities, bio-degradable packaging and energy usage reduction. Peregrine Farm Stall already has its own composting facilities and tries to recycle as much as possible. Waste reduction is a vital part of contributing to the state of the environment.

Peregrine also sells organic coffee and homemade sandwiches made from the freshest ingredients to provide a healthy alternative to the fast-paced fast food culture. Following this ideal Peregrine also produces its own authentic Apple Cider.

For more information visit www.peregrinefarmstall.co.zawww.peregrinefarmstall.co.za

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Watch Oude Molen grow Grabouw

OUDE MOLEN has recently experienced considerable growth in hosting conferences. Companies making use of our facilities included Really Great Brand Company, Diamonds Liquor Stores and the SA Wine Routes Forum. Next on the list is the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Environmental Health Forum of the Overberg.

Recently, the Elgin Valley Wine Guild held its AGM at the Distillery and it was a very successful evening.  School groups also paid a visit, including Oranje Girls High School from Bloemfontein, focusing on career educationals.

The Stellenbosch Wine Circle had a formal dinner at the Distillery which started off with a Distillery Tour.  Pieter Visser, winemaker from Oak Valley, conducted an imformative wine tasting for the group followed by a gourmet dinner. We also hosted the Hermanus Wine Club.  Both the Mercedes- Benz Club and the Cape Jaguar Club have booked tours and Sunday lunch and both events were a great success. We will be involved in Elgin Open Gardens this year for the first time. Debbie Hooper has upgraded the landscaping at Oude Molen with only indigenous plants and fynbos.  Oude Molen’s visitor centre will be open for garden visitors to enjoy a cappucino and choose from a variety of cakes.  We will also be hosting Evelyn Rust, local Grabouw artist, in her debut art exhibition.

Keep an eye out for a new product: VSOP Rene’s Single Cask brandy.  Over 10,000 vats of brandy at the Distillery were tasted in search of this exceptional brandy. It displays a unique character and remarkable taste profile and is going to be bottled shortly.  It will only be available for sale at the Distillery.

- Janis Viljoen
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Get creative with the Elliotts of Villiersdorp

DALE ELLIOTT and his son Mel conduct South Africa’s longest standing painting courses in South Africa from their home town Villiersdorp, in the heart of the Overberg, and which also incorporates the Green Mountain Eco Route.

Their three day courses in oils, acrylics and water-colours are run throughout the year, where they handle beginners, intermediate and advanced artists on multi level, next step, advanced and outdoor painting courses. Over three decades, Dale and Janny (his wife) have handled over 3 000 creative folk on over 250 courses. For twenty years they put themselves on the map in Knysna.

However, Dale and Mel both maintain that where their Art Gallery and Studio Complex is now situated in the Main Road of Villiersdorp, is in one of the most diversely paintable areas in Africa.

This presents many painting opportunities for them and also the participants on their courses. The participants’ needs are catered for by the Studio’s team. Managerial, administration, and gallery front-of-house tasks are facilitated by Carine Kinghorn and Sanieta Bruintjies.

The complex has its own framing department where all gallery frames are made, and also the Elliott’s ‘Econo Frames for Artists’ are made by Willem Kleinhans, their framer. Their ‘Econo’ range is a no frills frame range which any artist can purchase at a cost effective price. For further information, please contact Carine Kinghorn: 028 840 2927 Address: 80 Main Rd, Villiersdorp.

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VIILLIERSDORP, the Pearl of the Overberg, is the most recent discovery of wine writers in South Africa. Exceptional wines are produced in this beautiful valley of splendour by Villiersdorp Kelder.

The cellar is a BWI (Bio-diversity in Wine Initiative) accredited Co-op cellar with 42 wine producing members. Five of these BWI accredited members are situated on the northern side of the Groenlandberg.

Villiersdorp’s diversity in terroir, cool climate as well as the effect of the Theewaterskloof dam on the meso climate results in outstanding wines. The tasting centre and wine boutique is situated in the recently renovated Kelkiewyn Farmstall in Main Road Villiersdorp.

The Villiersdorp Tourism Bureau is situated next to Kelkiewyn Restaurant. Visitors can obtain information from the tourism officials in a relaxed and friendly environment.

The Kelkiewyn Restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week, and caters for functions by prior arrangement. The restaurant situated on the banks of the Eland’s River, is fully licensed.

The restaurant invites all to come and experience the “slowfood” menu – complemented by Slowine. The menu offers many specials with the emphasis on “slow cooking” and includes meals such as Oxtail Stew and Tomato Bredie.

Tasting and sales: Monday to Friday 08h00 – 17h00;
Sat and public holidays: 08h00 - 13h00.
(We regret, no tasting or selling of wines on Sundays).
Tel: +27 28 840 1120
Fax: + 27 28 840 0957
Restaurant: +27 28 840 0900

info@vilko.co.za
www.vilko.co.za

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Last year was devoted to building the cellar on the farm, Eerste Hoop, now complete, and this year the first wine was produced on the farm. The cellar was painted red, making its mark to passing traffic on the beautiful Van der Stel Pass.

Wines produced this year are showing character, the reds are in the barrel now and flavours continue to develop. The whites are showing good fruit vibrancy with superb clean characteristcs.

Leon Engelke (Estate Manager and Winemaker) has maintained the motto; mindful conservation of your soil can only benefit the quality of your wine.

Trying to maintain the equilibrium between nature and farming, ducks brought onto the farm last year have flourished in there job of controlling snails in the vineyards and have helped minimise the use of chemical pesticides.

While building the cellar a “nonnetjie” owl moved in. Not wanting to lose this owl, Eerste Hoop put up owl boxes on the farm which have further created opportunities for breeding.

In an additional effort to bring down waste management, Eerste Hoop has created a recycling programme for all waste. Although challenging to begin with, everybody living on the farm now implement these measures successfully.

The majority of the flagship wine, Eerste Hoop, and the easy drinking Witklip wines produced on the farm are exported to Belgium. However, locally the wines can be found at Peregrine and Houw Hoek Farm stall.

To visit the farm: Please call Leon Engelke 082 742 4793

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Discover the secrets of Porcupine Hills

PORCUPINE HILLS olive estate and guest farm is situated along the Van der Stel Pass between Botrivier and Vyeboom.

Accessibly situated near Villiersdorp, Hermanus and Franschhoek, this may very well be one of the Greenmountain Eco Route’s best kept secrets.

Not only the remote location in relation to the rest of the members, the unique Karoo like vegetation and rare renosterbos species make one feel you have really left the well beaten track.

As a member of the Cape stewardship programme and together with Cape-Nature, the rare and endangered species on Porcupine Hills will be protected for the enlightenment of future generations.

Porcupine Hills is owner run by Murray and Fiona Weiner who are supported by a small and dedicated staff that gives any visitor that personalised experience with attention to the finer details as well as respect for the desire to be at one with all that is encountered around them.

A pair of breeding Black Eagles successfully raise their chicks here every year in full view of patrons in the restaurant.

Together with the Fitzpatrick Institute the eagle chicks are tagged in the hope that someone out there may report where they go. This is in the form of a yellow wing tag, visible to the naked eye from not too far away.

Porcupine Hills offers accommodation for up to 12 people in four star guesthouses and chalets, offering self-catering and bed and breakfast facilities. Meals are also available in the restaurant, and prepared with culinary delight and expertise by both Murray and Fiona.

The restaurant is also periodically open to the public by appointment and available for functions, weddings and small parties.

Fiona and Murray have two children, Olivia and Jack, who attend Applewood Preparatory School, four dogs, chickens, lots of snakes, and many visitors that make any visit to Porcupine Hills an unforgettable experience.

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WILDEKRANS Wine Estate is combatting vineyard pests with a bit of help from our feathered friends.

This small boutique winery is situated in the scenic Bot River wine ward, just one hour’s drive from Cape Town. The estate is currently undergoing an intensive programme of restoration and renewal, aimed at becoming a cellar of international distinction and a world class wine destination.

The winemaking and viticultural teams follow a low intervention approach. One of their more recent eco-friendly innovations features a team of snail gobbling ducks who rid the vineyards of these tiresome and destructive pests.

“Not only is it a more economical option, the ducks are a natural and attractive means of pest control,” says Wildekrans viticulturist Braam Gericke.

This year 260 ducklings made Wildekrans their new home. They will gradually be introduced to the vineyards and, once accustomed to their new role, are transported from block to block via a tractor and wagon. Managing this eager bunch of snail slayers can be logistically challenging, but the results speak for themselves!

The ducks are trained to respond to a whistle and move along readily if there’s a ‘mealier’ reward in store. Their day’s job done, they return to headquarters where they relax and have a well deserved dip in their customized enclosure with en-suite pond.

Wildekrans belongs to the Green Mountain Eco Route, a group of local wine farms and other attractions committed to conservation, sustainability and upliftment. As members of the Biodiversity & Wine Initiative the estate is currently conducting a count of the birds and other wildlife which occur naturally on the property.

With its unique cool climate and superior soil types, Wildekrans offers a winning combination of fine wines, spectacular scenery, tranquil surroundings and the chance to revel in Mother Nature’s splendour.

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WELL it's been a busy year so far! The Cellar and Tasting room were officially opened in January and the 2009 harvest is done.

Thanks to all the Luddite Lovers for arriving at the crack of dawn with their secateurs ready to pick. The crop was larger this year so we had to resort to a bit of child labour too, and invited the kids’ classmates to the farm under the auspices of an "outing".

Great news is that we've received 4 stars in the March 2008 UK Decanter Mag's 99 Top Syrahs. Hoorah! And perhaps even greater news is that we've discovered Alice to be a very competent driver - she's zooting around the farm doing a whole lot of chores only Mum and Dad could do before!

The mountains around are still being visited frequently by visitors via the hiking trails that lead from the farm into the mountains. It is a great joy to be able to escape into the mountains and get away from the daily rigours and struggles of life. We are lucky enough to have it right here in our backyard.

We've been getting ready for winter over the last 10 days - stocking up on food for the piggies, doing some more alien clearing for firewood and hauling out the winter woollies.

Are you prepared? Have you got enough Luddite Shiraz to see you through? Be sure to contact us pronto if you don't - because winter won't be the same without it! - LIESL HAYES

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Nature ‘goed vertrouwd’

ALL things natural is the watchword at Goedvertrouw Wine Estate.

“We try to work as near as possible to nature – and sometimes it is not so easy as it is presumed to be,” says Elrieda Pillman, owner of the farm. She and two labourers run the whole farm – as well as the guest house and restaurant. “ You have to concentrate on just one thing at a time to get everything done. We try to provide as much as possible ourselves for use in the kitchen,” she adds. “We are fortunate to have our own water – we try to conserve and not to waste anything. We try to be gentle with nature,” says Pillman.

“We truly have organic animals on the farm – they roam about wherever they want on the land. Included are pigs and cattle – we milk ourselves and are lucky to make our own ice cream, cream and butter. Then there is the poultry – I always have fresh eggs and I would like to try and raise some ducks again this year.”

Pillman adds that the wine harvest went well this year. She gets help from neighbouring farm Beaumont to get the harvest in. “We had good rains and therefore a good harvest. We made Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sau-vignon, Sauvignon Blanc and unwooded Chardonnay this year. It is too early to make any judgement about the quality as yet.

“I also organise concerts to raise money for a good cause. We’ll have a concert in June to raise money for the violinist Tzi-Fan Tang who won a scholarship to study at the Royal School of Music in London. He is busy with his Masters degree at the University of Cape Town (UCT) and will perform here with Francois du Toit as accompanist.”

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BEAUMONT - THAR she mills!

BEAUMONT, the family-run wine estate in the quaint village of Bot River, is steeped in history. Established as a Dutch East India Company station in the 1700's, it served as an important point on the vital routes into the interior.

Along with a very traditional winery, where the fine art of winemaking is still practised using time-honoured open fermenters, the farm is also home to one of the Overberg's most historic mill houses.

The incredible enthusiasm and dedication of Andy Selfe has recently seen this mill being restored, and for the first time in decades the ancient water mill is again turning. This mill house is truly a living museum as it houses three different mill machines, one of which is driven by the beautiful wooden water wheel that is again powered by a natural stream- for the fist time in 80 years!

Inside the mill house you can see the on-going and painstaking restoration process of the beautiful wooden machinery and millstones.

For nature lovers, Beaumont has also recently established two beautiful trails with the generous and knowledgeable help of Gerald McCann, his assistants and our farm team.

The Baviaanskloof Trail winds its way along the old wagon route to Houw Hoek where our nesting black eagles are frequently spotted and these trails form part of the Green Mountain Eco Route - the first Biodiversity and Wine Route in the world.

So lots to see and do - along with tasting the fantastic wine of course!

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DE RUST ESTATE - home of Paul Cluver Wines

DE RUST ESTATE - home of Paul Cluver Wines - is located in the cool-climate Elgin Valley and forms part of The Kogelberg Biosphere world heritage site. This family-run winery and estate has roots that go back four generations. Wines produced on the estate have been acclaimed internationally and nationally.

The Estate was originally bought by Dr Paul Clüver’s great grandfather to provide summer grazing for livestock. Over the next few decades, extensive fruit orchards were established. Dr Cluver soon realised that the high, cool Elgin Mountain plateau close to the cold Atlantic and protected by mountain ranges was ideally situated for the production of premium variety wines. After the Elgin area was formally identified as a cool climate wine-growing appellation in the 1980s and with the aim of unlocking the potential of the slow-ripening grapes with their delicate aromas and fruit character similar to that of Burgundy, he planted the first vines in 1986.

De Rust Estate is part of the world's first wine and biodiversity route which stretches around the Groenland Mountain; a mentor of the Thandi black economic empowerment wine-producing project; a provider of eco-tourism adventures; and an integral part of partnership brand Slowine.

Paul Cluver Wines is a founder of the world’s first Wine and Biodiversity Route, situated around the Groenland Mountains. The Green Mountain Eco Route blends the rich biodiversity of the natural environment with wine, offering walks and journeys of exploration complemented with opportunities to taste the wines of the area. As proud members of the Green Mountain Eco route, the Estate is one of the founder members of the 4 day slack packing trail around the Groenlandberg, called the Green Mountain Trail. This trail not only promotes the area but also contributes to local guide training and focuses strongly on community involvement and empowerment.

The estate also established their own one day hiking trail, called the Paul Cluver Hike, where hikers can join Dr Cluver for a rejuvenating hike in the countryside, enjoying a delightful walk through bird-rich landscapes with beautiful fynbos as well as a delicious lunch under the trees followed by a wine tasting. These hikes can be booked on set dates between September and December each year.

Other conservation projects include extensive alien eradication, clearing of natural water ways in conjunction with Working for Water and conservation of the natural habitat of the local Renosterveld.

For further details and bookings contact Maritha Coleman at

tourism@cluver.com or 021 – 844 0605 or visit www.cluver.com

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How to transform to five-star conservation

AT the first impression you may not think of a hotel contributing towards conservation. And you would be right – because of lots of laundry, for ever changing linen and towels, running airconditioning and intensive illumination throughout the year.

However, there is a great potential to minimise the environmental impacts. Five-star Villa Exner has had a closer look and started with insulation – roof, walls, floors – all helping to keep the heat out of the rooms in summer or the cold in winter, reducing the energy needed to run airconditioning.

A major electricity waste was discovered using conventional geysers. Thus they had been replaced by instantaneous gas water heaters, producing only hot water when it is needed.

For the 11 bedroom hotel this was quite an investment as those units don’t come cheap, but the instant reward is lower electricity bills.

Light bulbs were replaced by energy savers, all technical equipment such as dish washers, washing machines and the like were purchased with best water and energy efficiency in mind – and, of course, the guests are engaged to help prevent unneccessary laundry by re-using towels and linen instead of automatically having them changed daily.

Looking at the garden was another big project: replacing high water consuming plants with indigenous vegetation, planting trees for natural shading, creating a pond and establishing an herb and vegetable garden.

Having your own supply of seasonal and fresh herbs and vegetables reduces the need to buy and cool them in your fridge and naturally reduces wastage for packaging.

At Villa Exner buying local is preferred, to reduce transport.

A remaining problem is recycling, event hough waste reduction is practiced and organic materials composted. Practical recycling systems with central collection and drop off points as found in Europe are still the future in South Africa.

Well, you may argue not having a hotel in the first place would even be better for conservation and the environment. Partly true, but then again Villa Exner’s guests appreciate the exquisite setting, the nature reserves at the doorstep, the abundant bird-life, the tranquil views and fresh air. And they leave as ambassadors for the area and bring in money which in turn helps with the upkeep and conservation of natural diversity, to promote responsible tourism and eco-activities such as along the Green Mountain Eco Route, which, last, but not least, creates sustainable job opportunies.

And isn’t that what it is all about?

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EXCITEMENT is building ahead of the ABSA Cape Epic race this month when the contestants will overnight on Oak Valley for two consecutive nights, namely the 26th and 27th.

Preparations have been made for the hosting of the event, which is centred around 1200 competitors together with their respective support teams, which should swell the numbers to a couple of thousand at least. Many of the support teams include the individual person’s own physio, masseurs, etc who will overnight in camper vans on the property.

At the same time our own Oak Valley Mountain Biking Experience, a 25km MTB Trail that takes the rider through the Estate, has been upgraded for the event. The venue now includes showering facilities and a bring-your-own picnic area, so the riders can relax with friends and family after a ride.

The MTB Trail offers the perfect stage to show off the pristine mountain fynbos on 282 hectares of the farm, which in turn was the first property in the Overberg to achieve Champion status within the wine industry’s Biodiversity & Wine Initiative.

The MTB trail at a charge of R30 per rider per day is proving to be increasingly popular with the Mountain Biking fraternity, especially on weekends.

In tandem with the biking activity, our wines are now available for tasting at the tasting room on Saturday mornings.

The wines for tasting include our newly released white blend called “The OV” which is a classical blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. This wine was nominated for 5 Platter stars and although it finally achieved 4½ stars, it is still an excellent buy as it is also fairly priced at R120 per bottle from the cellar.

The yield in the Sauvignon Blanc vineyard which is a registered single vineyard block at an altitude of 500 metres above sea level was a meagre 2 tons per hectare. This concentrates the flavours in grapes, which in turn enhances the aromas and mouthfeel of the wine. The Semillon component gives a roundness to the wine, off-setting the ripe grapefruit freshness.

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Nature discovery

Nature discovery with its new headquarters at the Elgin Grabouw Country Club, has consistently maintained an ecological educational base at the core of its business.

Over the past six years the company has lifted some 6 000 guests from the world over to areas rarely seen in the splendour of the Cape Mountain Ranges.

It is the owner, Brian Pickering’s strong belief that the Cape Fynbos areas - being one of the most intense plant areas on earth, should be sustained, that awareness and respect for the area should be created and that people should be educated as far as possible about the importance of the Green Mountain Eco Route initiative.

He says the environment supplies everybody with clean air and water and that fynbos acts as a natural filter. Pickering adds that we as human beings are failing to engage with nature sustainably and that we are dominating nature in too many ways.

Nature Discovery is providing guests the opportunity to reach the top of the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve rarely seen by most.

A short ride in a 4 x 4 ranger vehicle with educated environmental guides, enables a visitor to explore deep into pristine Fynbos areas with endless views where walking is an absolute privilege and pleasure.

The idea is to skip the ‘boring’ areas to get to high pristine areas at the top of the mountains, where there are spectacular view points and fairly easy walking.

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