The Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy (BHRC) has a fun-filled line-up for nature lovers during the upcoming Garden Town Stellenbosch festivities from Friday 25 October to Sunday 3 November.
All funds raised through the respective events will go towards conservation – specifically Renosterveld Rewilding projects as well as community development.
Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers can look forward to:
) Koopmanskloof-guided hike and wine tasting – Saturday 26 October
The guided hike through the 98 ha Koopmanskloof private nature reserve will take hikers to the highest point in the Bottelary Hills. It offers uninterrupted views from Table Mountain to Paarlberg, and the Drakenstein and Stellenbosch mountains. After the circular hike guests can enjoy an exclusive tank tasting hosted by winemaker Stephan Smit. Tickets are R230 and limited to 20 guests.
) Vineyard walk in Devon Valley – Sunday 27 October
Devon Valley offers a treasure trove of wineries and restaurants as you meander through this quaint valley of scenic vineyards and farms. The leisurely walk will start at the Devon Valley Hotel at 08:00 and finishes at 11:00. Tickets, at R250, include a breakfast snack with coffee or tea, snacks and tastings on route. All funds raised will go towards local NPO Froggies Aftercare. Only 100 spots are available.
) Discover Renosterveld walk and talk – Tuesday 29 October
Lynda Muller, founder of Discover Renosterveld, will lead an informative discussion on Renosterveld, a hidden and nearly lost world. Learn more about why conserving this critically endangered vegetation type found nowhere else on earth and how you can make a difference. Enjoy a short walk from the Devon Valley Hotel to explore. Tickets cost R150 and include the walk and talk, a shopping bag, health muffin and coffee or tea.
) Hazendal garden tour – Wednesday 30 October
Enjoy a one-hour guided walk from 10:00 to 11:00 to explore the historic Hazendal Wine Estate, including the Marvol gallery, classic car collection, pristine gardens and historical buildings followed by a wine tasting accompanied by a cheese or charcuterie platter. Tickets (R200) include a wine tasting and cheese platter, and are limited to 30 guests.
) Mooiplaas guided hike – Saturday 2 November
Enjoy a guided three-hour hike and wine tasting led by Tielman Roos, owner and viticulturist of Mooiplaas wine estate and BHRC chairperson. Mooiplaas Private Nature Reserve was registered in 1995. The 5,6 km circular trail meanders through the reserve. Limited tickets (R200) include a wine tasting and cheese platter.
) Garden Town wrap-up MTB ride – Sunday 3 November
Join the 2024 Wrap-up Ride for Renosterveld that starts and ends at Jordan Wine Estate. It offers two exhilarating routes: a challenging 34 km route with 800 m elevation and a shorter 22 km route with 600 m elevation. The tracks are not for beginners. Great prizes are up for grabs. After the race there will be a selection of delectable eats, fine wines, and music on offer. A portion of funds raised from entries will go to the BHRC. E-bikes are allowed but won’t be eligible for podium prizes. Entries (R350) are limited to 150 and include a goodie bag. Bike rentals are available and must be arranged at least seven days in advance via reservations@jordanwines.com.
) DeMorgenzon Open Garden – Friday 25 October to Sunday 3 November)
In Spring, specially chosen wildflowers flourish between the vines. DeMorgenzon does not doubt that a biodiverse and ecologically sensitive environment produces infinitely better grapes, and the beauty of their gardens is captured in every bottle of their wine.
- All tickets for BHRC events can be booked online through plakton.mobi.
- View the full Garden Town Stellenbosch programme online at www.gardentown.visitstellen-bosch.org.
