The Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy (BHRC) in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom – the smallest and most diverse botanical kingdom in the world with 8,600 plant species, of which 5,800 occur nowhere else, will be showcasing its natural beauty during Garden Town Stellenbosch. The initiative aims to nurture tourism and the experiential economy for the holistic benefit of all.
Garden Town will run from 27 October – 5 November 2023 with an elaborate programme to allow visitors to enjoy the horticultural wonders and floral artistry, embark on culinary journeys, and enjoy outdoor adventures. Included in the line-up for the first time this year is the Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy with an array of nature experiences.
DE MORGENZON OPEN GARDEN (27 October – 5 November):
DeMorgenzon has no 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.
VINEYARD WALK IN DEVON VALLEY:
Enjoy a guided 5.5-kilometer circular walk through the picturesque Devon Valley with tastings and treats along the way at Kunjani Restaurant, JC le Roux, and Devon Valley Hotel on 29 October.
HAZENDAL GARDEN TOUR:
Enjoy a 1-hour guided walk on 31 October to explore the historic Hazendal Wine estate in all its glory, including the Marvol gallery, classic car collection, pristine gardens, and historic buildings, followed by a wine tasting accompanied by a cheese or charcuterie platter.
MOOIPLAAS GUIDED HIKE:
Enjoy a guided 3-hour hike and wine tasting on 4 November, led by Tielman Roos. Mooiplaas private nature reserve was registered in 1995, and in 2020, Mooiplaas became the first WWF Conservation Champion in the Bottelary wine ward. The 5.6-kilometer circular hiking trail meanders through the 70-hectare Mooiplaas private nature reserve with its rich plant life and beautiful views.
DOG-FRIENDLY TRAIL RUN:
If you are looking for a fun, relaxed day of running or walking in the beautiful Stellenbosch winelands, the TrailFun run on 4 November on Bellevue Wine Estate is the perfect choice. This is an ideal entry-level run with easy to navigate up and down sections along the various route options that include a 5km, 10km, 15km, and 21km.
MTB RIDE:
Mountain bike enthusiasts are invited to spend the morning of 5 November cycling in the Bottelary Hills, wrapping up Garden Town 2023 with the Ride4Renosterveld MTB Challenge. Riders can choose between two distances that both start and finish on the Protea lawn at Jordan Wine Estate. The 12km (370m elevation) includes a stop at the Polkadraai Bike Park, while the moderate 25km route runs across several member farms with stunning views.
For more information visit www.bottelaryconservancy.co.za