Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy (BHRC) in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom – the smallest and most diverse botanical kingdom in the world with 8600 plant species of which 5800 occur nowhere else, will be showcasing its natural beauty during Garden Town Stellenbosch.
Curated by Visit Stellenbosch, in collaboration with key tourism stakeholders, including the Stellenbosch Municipality, Stellenbosch Publicity & Marketing and Stellenbosch Wine Routes, the initiative aims to nurture tourism and experiential economy for the holistic benefit of all our communities.
Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers can look forward to several nature-based experiences at the Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy. Founded in 1992, the BHRC features 1500 hectares of critically endangered Renosterveld, a 130km mountain bike trail network, hiking trails and wine adventures on the 55 member farms in and around the Bottelary Hills.
KOOPMANSKLOOF GUIDED HIKE AND WINE TASTING (Saturday, 26 October)
The guided hike through the 98-hectare Koopmanskloof private nature reserve will take you to the highest point in the Bottelary Hills. Located at 476 meters above sea level, it offers uninterrupted views from Table Mountain to Paarlberg and the Drakenstein and Stellenbosch mountains. On the opposite side lies the splendour of False Bay. “Koopman” is the Dutch word for trader and “Kloof” is a ravine, thus the direct translation is “Trader’s Ravine”. After the circular hike, guests can enjoy an exclusive tank tasting hosted by winemaker Stephan Smit. Tickets are R230 and limited to 20 guests. Book now: https://plankton.mobi/Events/EventBooking/6895eaef-5675-4361-a0c1-bef5244362cb
VINEYARD WALK IN DEVON VALLEY (Sunday, 27 October)
Venture off the beaten track between the Bottelary Hills and the Stellenbosch Valley and you will find a piece of the Stellenbosch Winelands that will captivate your senses and capture your heart. The rare blend of historic charm, magnificent mountain and valley views, undulating vineyards, fruit orchards and olive trees. Discover a treasure trove of wineries and restaurants as you meander through this quant valley of scenic vineyards and farms. The leisurely walk will start at the Devon Valley Hotel at 08h00 and finish at 11h00. Tickets (R250) include a breakfast snack with coffee/tea, snacks and tastings on route. Funds raised will go towards the local Froggies Aftercare NPO in Devon Valley. Only 100 spots are available. Book now: https://plankton.mobi/Events/EventBooking/e0866e4d-a01f-4cf4-a517-b531cb0e1d40
DISCOVER RENOSTERVELD WALK AND TALK (Tuesday, 29 October)
‘Discover Renosterveld’ is among the environmentalists who believe it is not too late to rescue, restore and recover the almost lost bits of the Renosterveld. 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 is important and how you can make a difference. With less than 5% remaining, the Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy plays a critical role in preserving and expanding the existing tracks of Renosterveld in its area. Enjoy a short walk from the Devon Valley Hotel to explore. Ticket (R150) includes Discover Renosterveld walk and talk, shopping bag, health muffin and coffee/tea. Book now: https://plankton.mobi/Events/EventBooking/6876c3e7-bd21-49bb-a5d5-3602b7c11826
HAZENDAL GARDEN TOUR (Wednesday, 30 October)
Enjoy a 1-hour guided walk from 10h00-11h00 to explore the historic Hazendal Wine estate in all its glory, including the Marvol gallery, classic car collection, pristine gardens and historical buildings followed by a wine tasting accompanied by a cheese or charcuterie platter. Whether you’re new to the world of wine, or an experienced connoisseur, our skilled Wine Lounge ambassadors are ready to share the history, terroir, and winemaking philosophy of Hazendal with you. Experience a taste of Hazendal – wines with a sense of place. Tickets (R200) include a wine tasting and cheese platter and are limited to 30 guests. Book now: https://plankton.mobi/Events/EventBooking/6f80a230-89e1-45dc-a734-de74beda1548
MOOIPLAAS GUIDED HIKE (Saturday, 2 November)
Enjoy a guided 3-hour hike and wine tasting led by Tielman Roos (owner and viticulturist of Mooiplaas wine estate and chairman of the Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy). Mooiplaas Private Nature Reserve was registered in 1995 and in 2020 Mooiplaas became the first WWF Conservation Champion in the Bottelary wine ward. The 5.6km circular hiking trail meanders through the 70-hectare Mooiplaas private nature reserve with its rich plant life and beautiful views. Limited tickets at R200 per person include a wine tasting and cheese platter. Tickets are R230 per person and limited to 40 guests. Book now: https://plankton.mobi/Events/EventBooking/cbe6013f-5a61-4543-9952-500f549ba10e
GARDEN TOWN WRAP UP MTB RIDE AT JORDAN WINE ESTATE (Sunday, 3 November)
Join the 2024 Wrap-up Ride for Renosterveld and be part of a thrilling cycling event in partnership with the Bottelary Hills Conservancy & MTB Trails. This event will be on the last day of Garden Town, wrapping up this exciting event hosted by Stellenbosch! Starting and ending at Jordan Wine Estate, this ride offers two exhilarating routes: a challenging 34km route with 800m elevation and a shorter 22km route with 600m elevation. Please note that these tracks are not for beginners. Conquer the terrain and push your limits amidst stunning surroundings. Compete for podium prizes in both male and female categories and get a chance to win exciting lucky draw prizes throughout the day. After crossing the finish line on the Protea lawn at Jordan Wine Estate, reunite with friends and family for a delightful morning filled with panoramic views of the Stellenbosch Kloof Valley. Indulge in a selection of delectable eats, fine wines, and music – the ultimate family day out. A portion of funds raised from ride entries will go to the BHRC. Please note that E-bikes are allowed but won’t be eligible for podium prizes. Entries (R350) are limited to 150 and include a fabulous goodie bag with a bottle of Jordan wine! Bike rentals are available from reputable dealers and must be arranged at least 7 days in advance via [email protected]. Book now: https://www.jordanwines.com/mountain-biking/
DE MORGENZON OPEN GARDEN (25 October – 3 November)
Garden Vineyards. 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.
Garden Town will run from 25 October to 3 November with an elaborative programme to allow visitors to immerse themselves in horticultural wonders and floral artistry, embark on culinary journeys and invigorating hikes, engage with gardening specialists, and enjoy outdoor adventures. Garden Town Stellenbosch programme and bookings https://gardentown.visitstellenbosch.org/full-programme/.
