Fun and adventure in Franschhoek this April

Posted by Leandre Davids on 02 April 2019 2:15 AM CAT

The weather is perfect to embark on the wide range of outdoor offerings, which range from mountain hikes, MTB trails, exploring the valley by bike, horseback riding and so much more. Don’t just come for the day. Plan to spend a night (or a weekend) which allows ample time to discover the other offerings the Valley is known for – award-winning wines, world-class restaurants, internationally acclaimed art galleries and so much more.  

Some of the activities include:

Wine tasting on horseback

A unique way to enjoy wines from the valley as well as take in the sights and sounds, wine tasting on horseback is a must on your list of things to do when visiting. Paradise Stables takes you to Rickety Bridge and Mont Rochelle where you travel by horseback through the vineyards before enjoying a wine tasting at each of the establishments.

Cape Winelands Riding offers a unique riding experience for the discerning rider. Their packages include a one to two hour ride through the vineyards and orchards, to full day packages as well as overnight stays. Private wine tasting experiences and lunch can also be included.

La Motte Hiking Trail

The La Motte Hiking Trail offers the ideal opportunity to explore some of La Motte’s greatest natural assets and the breathtaking vistas of the Franschhoek Wine Valley. The Sustainable Hike is a further expression of La Motte’s commitment to the highest conservation and biodiversity standards and the protection of precious indigenous flora and fauna in the mountain area surrounding the estate and the adjoining Wemmershoek mountain range. The perfect opportunity to explore abundant birdlife, a protea garden, sustainably farmed vineyards, a wealth of flora, resident mammals and reptiles and the breathtaking vistas of the valley. On Monday mornings guests can enjoy a Guided Hike where an experienced and passionate guide shares information on the flora and fauna as well as the region. Included in your hike is an easy to read trail map, bottle of water as well as light refreshments when stopping for a breather at the Lapa.

Exploring the valley with Franschhoek Cycles

Franschhoek Cycles offers a guided bicycle tour through Franschhoek, with the assistance of a qualified and knowledgeable guide. Included in your experience is a wine tasting at one of the wine farms, a picnic lunch as well as a complementary bottle of wine.

Franschhoek Adventures

Your one stop Franschhoek outdoor experience, Franschhoek Adventures is your gateway to a wide range of outdoor activities which is fun and informative. Activities to choose from include hikes in the valley’s majestic mountains, mountain bike wine or village tours, cultural township and village history walks. For a more relaxed experience the Franschhoek Secret Tours takes you on a journey of exploring the various gift shops throughout the village, which makes for the perfect excuse to spoil yourself or that someone special in your life. The Amazing Franschhoek Treasure Hunts and Geocaching Trips are perfect for team building events. Franschhoek Adventures also offer tours ideally suited to the young ones, allowing Mom and Dad a few uninterrupted hours to explore the wine farms or enjoy a relaxing meal. The tours on offer cater for all ages, interests and abilities.

Babylonstoren

Uncover the hidden horticultural treasures of this magnificent garden on an informative guided tour, which is suited for all ages. Other highlights include exploring the surrounds on their numerous cycling trails or help feed the resident farm donkeys who love nothing better than a snack of bread (or two). Young ones can feed the fish in their ponds, explore the spekbos labyrinth or see how insects make their homes in the rubble, wood or bark provided for them. A mere sampling of the wide range of family friendly activities available.

Mountain Biking at Boschendal

The perfect MTB trail for riders of all levels, even families and casual riders. Choose from three marked trail circuits with the option of an additional 5km if starting from the Boschendal Werf parking area. For those not joining the riders, enjoy a hearty breakfast or light lunch at the Boschendal Werf while waiting for the riders to return. Weather permitting the sprawling lawns make for the perfect picnic, a popular pastime at Boschendal.

Garden and Art Tours at Leeu Estate

Something completely different, but still outdoors, enjoy a guided tour of the gardens interspersed with strategically placed artworks at Leeu Estates’ immaculately manicured landscaped gardens.

Scootours Franschhoek

Scootours Franschhoek offer an adventurous way to explore the magnificent mountains surrounding the Valley in an exciting and family-friendly way. During the tour you will free-wheel along sections of the historic 1825 Holloway Pass and 1890 Cats Path ox wagon trail that ends at Haute Cabrière Cellar Restaurant. Participants enjoy picturesque views of the Franschhoek Wine Valley as well as the pristine fauna and flora of the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve.

Berg River Dam

A hidden gem in the Valley is without a doubt the Berg River Dam area, surrounded by spectacular mountains. The vicinity, which is accessed by purchasing a full day pass, is perfect for MTB enthusiasts, with the option to utilise their range of tracks and single tracks, charting breathtaking routes through the mountains. Not only suited to MTB riders, the Berg River Dam is perfect for avid hikers, with routes suited to all levels. The magnificent views add the final touches to this not-to-be missed outdoor experience.

Visit www.franschhoek.org.za, and select the tab headed Activities for more information on these outdoor activities and more.