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Western Cape Agriculture Harvests Another Clean Audit, Boosting Exports and Rural Development

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Western Cape Agriculture Harvests Another Clean Audit, Boosting Exports and Rural Development

On 28 October 2024 the Western Cape Department of Agriculture presented its Annual Report 2023/24 to the Western Cape Provincial Parliament (WCPP).

The report highlighted that the Western Cape accounted for 51% of South Africa’s total agricultural exports in 2022. Since 2018, agriculture and agri-processing exports have increased from R63 billion to R104 billion in 2023, an annual average growth of 11%.

During this period, the relative share of Western Cape agri-processing exports to Africa increased from 35% to 37%, and the relative share of primary agriculture and agri-processing to the Americas increased from 6% to 9% and 7% to 10%, respectively.

According to the Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, this performance highlights the sector’s importance and economic contribution to the Western Cape economy, especially through exports.

Minister Meyer said, “This is visible in markets such as China, where the wine market has struggled for the past few years, but South Africa has managed to grow and capture market share. In 2023, imports grew in volume (29,86%) and value (29,21%). South Africa has taken the second position in volumes and the first position in value out of the ten countries that China imports from. South Africa is one of only two countries to have seen growth in the Chinese market.”

The 2023/2024 budget of R978 689 was spent on, amongst others:

  • R126 million to promote the sustainable use and management of natural resources.
  • R216 million on producer support services.
  • R61 million to provide animal health services to prevent and control animal diseases. A further R2.5 million went towards the upgrade of the Veterinary Laboratory.
  • R99 million to improve agricultural production through research and technology development, focusing on mitigation and adaptation options for farmers in response to climate change.
  • R29 million was provided for production economics and marketing services to agri-businesses, with a further R1.1 million spent on facilitating agri-processing initiatives to grow participation in the agricultural value chain.
  • R61.5 million went towards education and training in agricultural skills development.
  • R10.8 million to enhance the socio-economic conditions of agri workers and their families.

Notable achievements include:

  • The Youth Development Programme of the department benefited 235 unemployed youth through internships, bursaries, and scholarships. Work-integrated learning and workplace experience were provided in the department or on farms to 213 beneficiaries, predominantly rural youth, young agricultural graduates and student interns.
  • The Lower Olifants River Water Users Association (LORWUA) was supported with funding to conduct preventative maintenance construction work on the aged 268 km concrete-lined canal system that supports approximately 840 farms with 12 000 ha under irrigation.
  • LandCare completed 35 projects in rural areas that created 1 417 job opportunities for the sector and rehabilitated 31 471 ha of agricultural land.
  • The Producer Support Services sub-programme delivered the following outputs: supported 13 producers in the red meat commodity, two producers in the grain commodity, and 19 black commercial farmers were supported for the reporting period. The sub-programme exceeded most of its targets due to increased support from the commodity partners.
  • The Extension and Advisory Services sub-programme delivered the following outputs: 26 farmers’ days were held, 4 393 producers were supported with on-farm advice, and 62 agricultural business skills audits were completed. Based on their requests, the sub-programme exceeded its targets relating to site visits, farmers’ days, and mentorship to farmers.
  • The Food Security sub-programme continued to roll out key interventions to support smallholders and subsistence producers (including households, community and school food garden projects). The following outputs were delivered during the reporting period: supported 3 930 households to establish food gardens; supported 41 smallholder farmers/producers with production inputs, equipment and infrastructure; supported 142 subsistence farmers, i.e. community food garden projects, and 24 school food gardens. The sub-programme held six food garden awareness-raising and promotion activities, including World Food Day 2023.
  • The Provincial Veterinary Laboratory (PVL) reopened on 1 April 2024, and the official launch of this upgraded 51-year-old facility was held on 6 May 2024.
  • The Veterinary Export Certification office issued 15 203 export certificates. The certificates confirmed that the animal or animal products exported from the Western Cape complied with South African and International food and animal industry standards determined by importing countries.

Minister Meyer congratulated Casidra on successfully implementing disaster support projects, supporting the Department with project management for comprehensive agriculture support grant (CASP), and food security projects.

A copy of the WCDoA Annual Report 2023-24 can be accessed on our website:

https://www.westerncape.gov.za/dept/agriculture/documents/annual_reports/2023

Meet Western Cape Farmer of the Year: André Brink

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Meet Western Cape Farmer of the Year: André Brink

At the 2024 !Xhariep Agricultural Writers SA Regional Awards that was held recently, André Brink was recognized as the Western Cape Farmer of the Year, a prestigious award that acknowledges his exceptional contributions to agriculture. The event celebrated the region’s top agricultural leaders and their dedication to advancing the sector. The awards recognized farmers and agriculturalists who lead the charge in agriculture across the region. The !Xhariep region includes the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and Eastern Cape.

Groot Phesantekraal, located on the outskirts of Durbanville, has been in the Brink family for generations. Today, the fourth and fifth generations – André Brink and his sons, Rennie and Jeandre—manage the farm. André took the reins of the family farm in 1996, inheriting 350 hectares of crops, 800 sheep, and 50 cattle. Under his guidance, the farm has expanded significantly, now encompassing 4,650 hectares of owned land, plus an additional 850 hectares of leased land.

A Diversified Farming Enterprise

The farm is a shining example of diversification, a key factor in its success. Groot Phesantekraal grows small grains on 2,500 hectares, cultivates 1,500 hectares of  pasture, and tends 180 hectares of vineyards, supplying a 500-ton wine cellar. The livestock operations are just as impressive, with 3,500 Dohne Merino sheep and 400 Hereford cattle.
This diverse approach doesn’t stop at farming – Groot Phesantekraal also boasts six different business branches: small grain, livestock, wine grapes, a feed factory, hospitality, and a non-agricultural branch. By spreading risk and focusing on value addition in all operations, André ensures the farm’s stability and sustainability.

A Family-Run Business

Groot Phesantekraal is a 100% family-run enterprise. André oversees the farm’s overall management while also seeking new opportunities for growth. His son Rennie is in charge of the small grain and wine departments, while Jeandre handles the livestock and feed production. Ronelle, André’s wife, manages the farm’s marketing, administration, and wine exports. André’s daughter, Marizanne, plays a vital role on the farm as well, bringing her expertise as an industrial engineer. Her skills contribute significantly to the operational efficiency of the farm, where she assists with various technical and logistical aspects to optimize farm processes. Marizanne’s background allows her to approach farm management with a fresh perspective, helping the family continuously improve and adapt to modern challenges in agriculture.

This family teamwork has been instrumental in the farm’s continued success. The collaborative spirit of the Brink family allows them to navigate the challenges of modern farming and thrive in an ever-changing industry.

Other Accolades

In addition to being named the Western Cape Farmer of the Year, André has received numerous other awards for his contributions to agriculture. In 2022, he was named Graan SA’s Grain Producer of the Year, further solidifying his status as an industry leader. He has also won the Protein Research Foundation’s Canola Yield Competition in the Swartland region, achieving an impressive yield of 2.186 tons per hectare.

Beyond grain, the farm’s wine production has been recognized with several awards. Their Sauvignon Blanc has earned two spots in the prestigious Sauvignon Blanc Top-10, along with multiple gold and double gold medals at both the Veritas and Michelangelo Wine Competitions. The farm’s wines are consistently rated highly, with Platter’s Wine Guide awarding four stars or more.

André Brink is a forward-thinking farmer who believes in the importance of innovation while balancing practicality. He actively seeks out new technologies and methods to keep the farm on the cutting edge, though he remains cautious about unnecessary expenditures. In his words, technology must add value and be used cost-effectively to help manage land and resources optimally.

Looking ahead to the National Agricultural Writers Awards in November, André Brink’s achievements stand as a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and innovative spirit in South African agriculture.

Port Inefficiencies Cost Apple and Pear Farmers R1 Billion Annually

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Port Inefficiencies Cost Apple and Pear Farmers R1 Billion Annually

“While we recognise that the Port of Cape Town (PoCT) management is implementing a terminal turn-around strategy and welcome the acquisition of new infrastructure, the worryingly slow pace at which it is happening remains a deep concern and has direct cost implications for the agricultural sector in the Western Cape,” said Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, following his visit to Two-a-Day (TAD) in Grabouw.

TAD, previously known as Elgin Fruit Packers Co-operative Limited, is one of Africa’s leading fruit-growing, packing, and marketing companies. It comprises more than 50 farms and 3,300 hectares. Total production, including processing, equates to over 200 000 tonnes per annum.

During the visit, Attie van Zyl, managing director of TAD, highlighted that the estimated total cost of inefficiencies at the PoCT to the Western Cape apple and pear industry was R999 million annually. “Our apple and pear growers are directly impacted. The total estimated cost of a dysfunctional port per hectare for our farmers is R26 000 per hectare.”

“While this figure is deeply worrying, it does not show the full extent of the loss to the agriculture sector because we are not calculating the opportunities lost of growing into new markets. We are not seen as a reliable supplier to the international market because we cannot guarantee delivery,” said Premier Alan Winde.

Glen Steyn, the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism’s project manager for logistics development, said the department has been working closely with the management team of Transnet Port Authority and Transnet Port Terminals in the Western Region.

“We appreciate our constructive engagement with Transnet Ports Authority. Our conversations include the impact of logistics on the national and provincial economies. A digital logistics planning platform is being developed with Transnet and other agencies in the container logistics chain that should assist in reducing bottlenecks and their disruptive effect on cargo movement” added Glen Steyn.

Minister Meyer concluded, “The Western Cape Government’s Growth for Jobs strategy sets out our ambitious plan to grow the Western Cape economy by 5% annually by 2035. We aim to triple the value of the province’s exports of goods and services (inclusive tourism) by 2035 to R450bn. To achieve this, we need an efficient port. Productivity at the PoCT must significantly improve in the lead-up to the upcoming fruit export season if we are to achieve this goal.”

South Africa at BRICS Summit: Expanding Agricultural Exports Amid Geopolitical Challenges

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South Africa at BRICS Summit: Expanding Agricultural Exports Amid Geopolitical Challenges

South Africa’s agricultural sector is heavily export-driven, with international trade playing a key role in its growth over the past 30 years. However, rising geopolitical tensions have heightened the need for the country to diversify its agricultural export markets. At the BRICS summit, currently taking place from 22-24 October 2024, in Kazan, Russia, South Africa should focus on strengthening its trade relations with key BRICS countries – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa – and other markets. Wandile Sihlobo, Chief Economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of SA, emphasizes the need to expand market access within BRICS to secure the future growth of the country’s agricultural sector.

Current Challenges in South African Agricultural Exports

The South African agricultural sector’s success over the past three decades has been supported by two key strategies: investments in genetics for crops, horticulture, and livestock, and a strong push to expand export markets. With production continuing to increase and the capacity for further growth, these efforts must be intensified.

However, significant challenges remain, particularly in key markets such as China, India, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, where high import tariffs and phytosanitary barriers restrict market access. Other potential markets in Asia, including South Korea, Japan, and Vietnam, present similar challenges. To remain competitive, South Africa must prioritize the development of seed and livestock breeding programs capable of adapting to increasingly adverse climate conditions. These efforts are essential to ensure long-term food security and sustained agricultural productivity.

The Need to Diversify Export Markets

South Africa is the only African country ranked among the top 40 global agricultural exporters, with an export value of US$13.2 billion in 2023, placing it 32nd globally. Yet, access to existing markets, such as the European Union (EU) and African neighbours within the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), is becoming increasingly uncertain due to rising protectionist measures. South Africa has already faced non-tariff barriers, particularly in citrus exports to the EU, as well as restrictions on vegetables and citrus exports to Botswana and Namibia.

Given these obstacles, Wandile Sihlobo argues that diversifying into new markets, particularly within BRICS and other strategic regions, is vital. South Africa must not only maintain its existing export relationships but also actively pursue new opportunities. He stresses that this will require concerted efforts from the government, the private sector, and relevant stakeholders, including the Department of Agriculture, to negotiate better trade terms and reduce non-tariff barriers.

Political Leadership and Trade Diplomacy

Trade issues are inherently political, and Sihlobo underscores the importance of South Africa’s political leadership in addressing these challenges. The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) must play a proactive role in engaging with other nations to resolve trade disputes and open new markets. He notes that DIRCO’s involvement in economic diplomacy is becoming increasingly crucial, particularly in light of growing geopolitical tensions that have affected global trade.

South Africa’s recent move to file a dispute with the World Trade Organization (WTO) against the EU’s citrus restrictions is an example of how political and diplomatic efforts can help address protectionist measures. According to Sihlobo, such actions should be a model for how South Africa engages with its trading partners moving forward, particularly in navigating complex trade relations within SACU and the broader BRICS bloc.

A Strategic Opportunity

The BRICS summit presents a valuable platform for South Africa to push for deeper agricultural trade relations with its partners in the bloc. Although BRICS is not a formal trade alliance, the structure provides an opportunity for South Africa to advocate for more ambitious trade agreements. Currently, South Africa’s agricultural exports to BRICS countries represent only 8% of its total agricultural exports, with most of the trade concentrated in a few commodities.

Wandile Sihlobo points out that BRICS countries have significant agricultural import demands, averaging US$255 billion annually between 2019 and 2022. China, in particular, accounted for 71% of these imports, with India and Russia following at 11% each. South Africa produces many of the agricultural goods in high demand, including soybeans, beef, maize, and various fruits. Therefore, Sihlobo argues, South Africa must seize the opportunity at the BRICS summit to lobby for the removal of trade barriers and improve market access for these products.

 Building on Momentum

Building on the dialogue from the 2023 BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, where South Africa championed deeper agricultural trade, Sihlobo insists that the 2024 BRICS Summit in Kazan should focus on pragmatic steps to enhance trade. With the recent expansion of BRICS+ to include new members like Saudi Arabia, South Africa has a unique opportunity to widen its agricultural export markets even further.

Sihlobo emphasizes that it is not enough to engage in high-level talks; South African authorities must push for actionable outcomes that benefit the country’s agricultural sector. By doing so, South Africa can ensure that its farmers and agribusinesses fully reap the benefits of BRICS+ engagements, securing the long-term growth and sustainability of the nation’s agricultural industry.

Woolworths WCellar Unveils Premium Canned Wines

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Woolworths WCellar Unveils Premium Canned Wines

Canned wines are gaining popularity, particularly among younger consumers and outdoor enthusiasts, due to their convenience, single-serve portions, and eco-friendly appeal. Woolworths’s WCellar has responded to this trend by partnering with six prominent South African wine brands to offer a range of premium canned wines.

The collection includes six varietals from renowned local estates: Diemersdal (Sauvignon Blanc), Kleine Zalze (Chenin Blanc), De Wetshof (Limestone Hill Chardonnay), Haute Cabrière (Tranquille Blush), Beyerskloof (Pinotage), and Ken Forrester SGM, a blend of Shiraz, Grenache, and Mourvèdre. This collaboration aims to dispel the notion that canned wine means lower quality, offering top-tier cultivars in a convenient format.

Ian Wilson, WCellar’s category manager, assures customers that the quality of these canned wines matches that of their premium boxed wines. “We are offering only the highest quality product in a format that suits their needs,” he says.

The range is available in packs of four 250ml slimline cans, designed as single servings, roughly equivalent to one large glass of wine. According to Wilson, this format not only suits outdoor events like braais, but also allows consumers to enjoy a glass without committing to a full bottle. Additionally, canned wine offers an easy way to manage and limit consumption, aligning with the growing trend of conscious drinking.

Chester Fisch: Waar Musiek en Landbou Drome Waar Maak

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Chester Fisch: Waar Musiek en Landbou Drome Waar Maak

Op ‘n wynplaas in Wolseley het Chester Fisch, ‘n seisoenale werker, sy liefde vir musiek en boerdery met oorgawe uitgeleef. Sy dae was gevul met harde werk, maar dit was sy musiek wat sy hart laat sing het. Toe sy maat, Felicity, hom aanmoedig om deel te neem aan Agri’s Got Talent 2024 (AGT), het hy geweet dit was sy kans om sy talent verder te neem.

Agri’s Got Talent is in 2013 deur Hortgro begin. Hierdie unieke inisiatief bied ‘n platform vir landbouwerkers om hul talent te deel en terselfdertyd nuwe vaardighede te ontwikkel, selfvertroue op te bou en persoonlike groei te bevorder. Vanjaar, in sy 11de jaar, is die projek ondersteun deur Hortgro, die Sitruskwekersvereniging, die Suid-Afrikaanse Tafeldruifbedryf, SA Wyn en die Wes-Kaapse Departement van Landbou. Dit is ‘n inisiatief wat die landbougemeenskap versterk en hulde bring aan die belangrikheid van die werkers in hierdie bedryf.

Op die aand van die finaal het Chester nie net die gehoor betower met sy sang nie, maar ook met sy indrukwekkende danspassies en onmiskenbare charisma. Sy weergawe van Michael Jackson se “The Way You Make Me Feel” het die hele saal aan die bewe gehad, en sy tweede liedjie, “A Change is Gonna Come” deur Sam Cooke, het diep in die harte van die beoordelaars en gehoor weerklink. Hierdie optrede het hom die verdienstelike wenner van die jaar se kompetisie gemaak.

Die beoordelaars was dit eens dat Chester ’n meer as verdienstelike wenner van die jaar se kompetisie was. Sy vertonings het nie net op tegniese vaardigheid staatgemaak nie, maar het ook die gehoor se harte geraak en ‘n boodskap van hoop en verandering uitgedra.

Na afloop van die kompetisie het Chester nederig gesê: “Dit gaan nie oor wen nie, dit gaan oor leer en groei. Ons is almal leerders.” Sy deelname aan AGT het nie net sy selfvertroue gebou nie, maar hom ook die kans gegee om sy drome na te jaag en sy musiek verder te bevorder.”

Chester se storie is ’n inspirasie vir almal in die landbougemeenskap. Hierdie inisiatief het hom die geleentheid gegee om sy talent uit te leef, nuwe vaardighede te ontwikkel, en sy droom te verwesenlik. Nou wil hy ander jong kunstenaars inspireer om dieselfde te doen – om hul drome na te jaag en te glo dat alles moontlik is met deursettingsvermoë.

Chester se storie is ’n bewys dat as jy jou passie volg, jy berge kan versit. Met sy oorwinning het hy nie net sy eie drome bewaarheid nie, maar ook hoop gebring vir die jeug en die landbougemeenskap wat hy so lief het.

Met sy AGT-titel wil Chester nou jong kunstenaars inspireer en ook die belangrikheid van landbou onder die jeug bevorder. Hy glo vas dat beide musiek en landbou die wêreld aan die gang hou. Sy storie is ‘n inspirasie vir almal – as jy glo in jou drome en bereid is om hard te werk, is daar geen beperking op wat jy kan bereik nie.

Vergelegen Wine Estate Wins Innovation Award for Wine Tourism Excellence

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Vergelegen Wine Estate Wins Innovation Award for Wine Tourism Excellence

Vergelegen Wine Estate, long renowned for its commitment to protecting history and heritage, has just been officially recognised for its innovation too.

The 324-year-old Somerset West estate scooped the Innovative Wine Tourism Experiences award in the 2025 Best Of Wine Tourism and Wine Tourism Ambassador Awards on 16 October. Initiated by Great Wine Capitals 26 years ago, the Best Of Wine Tourism Awards are a key guide for local and  international tourists seeking authentic experiences, from vineyard visits and festivals to exclusive wine tastings.

Vergelegen is home to a 1900-hectare private nature reserve with the same conservation status as the Kruger National Park. Guests can book for a guided environmental tour in a game drive vehicle, and learn more about the estate’s alien vegetation clearing project, the largest privately funded project of its type in South Africa. The alien vegetation clearing has resulted in the return of abundant natural vegetation, birds, mammals, and rare and endangered plants. Guests can view indigenous Nguni cattle, bontebok, eland, rare ‘Rau’ quagga, black wildebeest and red hartebeest, and learn about providing natural forage for honey bees. The estate also offers wine tastings, cellar tours, manor house and garden tours, and a selection of restaurants, appealing to all ages and pockets.

“Winning the award is just incredible,” said Vergelegen managing director Wayne Coetzer. “This accolade is an endorsement of our staff who have worked extremely hard to ensure that this beautiful estate’s facilities and hospitality are absolutely world class. We pride ourselves on offering true hospitality, which is so different to service. Hospitality is the way you make people feel. Every person who comes to this farm must have an incredible experience and feel spoilt.”

The environmental tour is weather permitting, departing from the wine tasting centre at 10.00. Duration is two hours, R750 per person, maximum nine people. The cost includes a branded cap, water bottle and Heritage Range wine tasting. Contact 021 847 2122 or mail  [email protected].  Find out more at https://vergelegen.co.za/ |.

Nature and Wine Unite at Bottelary Hills During Garden Town Stellenbosch

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Nature and Wine Unite at Bottelary Hills During Garden Town Stellenbosch

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/.

 

Get Ready for the Ultimate Outdoor Adventure in Grabouw!

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Get Ready for the Ultimate Outdoor Adventure in Grabouw!

Get ready for an unforgettable outdoor experience from 8 – 10 November at the annual Outdoor and Adventure Expo in Grabouw! Whether you’re a camping enthusiast, 4×4 adventurer, or lover of the great outdoors, this expo is tailored just for you.

Hosted at the breathtaking Elgin Grabouw Sports Club, the event showcases everything from classic Land Rover Defenders to the latest state-of-the-art camping gear and equipment.
Founded by André Verster, LR Classic leads the charge in offering guided self-drive safaris with a fleet of classic Land Rovers.

André’s extensive experience as a tour guide, combined with his passion for off-road expeditions, makes every event memorable and exciting. His vision for LR Classic is to become the go-to operator for exclusive 4×4 adventures and tours across Southern Africa.

The expo features a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, rowing, and 4×4 overlanding. You’ll also find top-notch camping gear, 4×4 accessories, caravans, and more.
With food vendors, kids’ entertainment, a beer and craft gin garden, and even wine & cheese tastings, it’s a family-friendly event packed with fun.

Just 60 minutes from Cape Town, the venue offers stunning views of the Hottentots Holland Mountains and Eikenhof Dam – an adventure not to be missed!

For more information visit www.lrclassic.com

Ontdek saam met TE Toere – Ongelooflike Indië, ‘n Pronkende Pou

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Ontdek saam met TE Toere – Ongelooflike Indië, ‘n Pronkende Pou

“Ontdek die ware Indië in Maart 2025. Oral is die Taj Mahal bekend as die absolute Indiese ikoon, maar ons reis deur die land ontbloot baie meer as net die perfekte argitektuur van die tydlose monument… ons ontdek die werklike Indië, die eeu oue beskawing en die siel van die land van die ewige en opregte glimlag… weg van vooropgestelde idees en veralgemenings.

In die wilde hart van Indië lê Ranthambore Nasionale Park, ‘n toevlugsoord van ongetemde natuurskoon en die tuiste van die Koninklike Bengaalse tier – die eintlike ikone van ongerepte Indië. Die ritseling van blare en die verre roep van vele dierewesens is die agtergrondsmusiek vir die prag wesens wat stil-stil en statig sluip deur welige plantegroei of rustig in waterpoele afkoel, hul alombekende gestreepte pels natloos gekamoefleer in die gevlekte sonlig.

Die kleingroeptoer is ‘n sensoriese tog van helder kleure – die pou is immers die Indiese nasionale voël, weelderige teksture en geure en die hartlikheid van sy mense. Van bruisende Mumbai tot romantiese Udaipur, waar marmerpaleise skitterend sweef op blink mere.

Die Goue Driehoek met die Taj Mahal in Agra as middelpunt, bied ‘n menigte ervarings. Jaipur, die pienk stad verlei met die grootsheid van die Amber Fort en versierde olifante en Delhi, die hoofstad van die wêreld se grootste demokrasie, polsend tussen oud en nuut.

Ons ontdekkingstog eindig in Varanasi, aan die oewers van die heilige Gangesrivier – Hindoes se heiligste stad, en die alomteenwoordige spiritualiteit wat elke faset van Indiese bestaan deurdrenk. Alles saamgebind deur die wêreldberoemde aromas en smake van die voortreflike Indiese kookkuns.

Kom saam en wees meer as net ‘n blote toeris – in Indië word besoekers as ‘n seëning geëer en gevier, en ontdek die magiese bekoring van Ongelooflike Indië.”

TE Toere by Club Travel Tygervallei, Tel: 021 914 2265
[email protected] | www.smallgrouptours.co.za

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