Discover the Magic of the Green Mountain Eco Route

If you’re feeling trapped in the hustle and bustle of Cape Town, longing for a breath of fresh countryside air, then you must embark on a journey to the stunning Elgin Valley. Just a short drive from Cape Town, this picturesque haven of vineyards, fynbos, mountains, and forests is a gateway to that much-needed escape. Prepare yourself for an adventure like no other as you immerse in the beauty of the Green Mountain Eco Route.

1. Unleash Your Inner Artist at Wildekrans

Imagine this: you’re in the Houw Hoek Pass, surrounded by the beauty of nature. At Wildekrans Country House, Alison Green and Barry Gould have created a place that combines art and tranquility, giving you an experience like no other.

As you walk through the carefully tended gardens, basking in the warm glow of the setting sun, you can’t help but be captivated by the stunning artwork of Wilma Cruise. Each step is an opportunity to pause and reflect on her creations. And that’s not all. Inside the house and cottage, there’s a treasure trove of contemporary masterpieces by renowned artists like William Kentridge, Judith Mason, and Robert Hodgins.

Breathe in the fresh country air, and let your senses awaken to the beauty that surrounds you. It’s an experience that will leave you feeling inspired and rejuvenated.

So, if you’re looking for a unique getaway that combines art and nature, look no further than Wildekrans Country House. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

When I stayed overnight at the Birch Cottage in Cape Town, I couldn’t help but notice how perfectly it matched its name. The cottage was surrounded by beautiful Birch trees, which added to its charm. Inside, our rooms had a stunning view of the mountains and gardens. Furnished with antique pieces and artwork, they felt like a step back in time. I have to admit, it was one of the best sleeps I’ve had in a long time. Maybe the wine I drank played a part, but I like to think that the comfortable bed and peaceful country atmosphere had something to do with it too. At Wildekrans, you can choose between bed and breakfast or self-catering accommodations. No matter what you choose, you’ll be greeted with four-poster beds and cozy log fires. Each room is cozy and quaint, offering the perfect setting for couples and families to relax and unwind.

If you want to learn more and book your stay at Wildekrans Country House, click here.

2. Exploring the Area

Imagine stumbling upon something unexpected, like the water mill at Beaumont Wines. That’s exactly what happened to me, and it turned out to be quite a fascinating experience. Andy Selfe, our guide, took us on a tour of this historic mill, where we got to witness the magic of grinding wholewheat flour the old-fashioned way.

Now, I’m not usually one to get excited about history lessons, but this was different. It was like stepping back in time and witnessing the inner workings of a bygone era. And let me tell you, it was pretty amazing. The mill used water to create energy, which in turn powered various machines, including the flour grinding machines. It was a perfect example of how nature’s force can be harnessed to accomplish incredible things.

What’s even more impressive is the mill’s backstory. It was once an important outpost for the Dutch East India Company in the 18th century. But over time, it fell into disrepair. Thankfully, about five years ago, it was restored to its former glory. Now, the mill produces high-quality flour that is used to make delicious bread.

There’s something truly special about witnessing the revival of history and seeing how old traditions can still be relevant today. It’s a reminder of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of those who came before us. So, next time you stumble upon something unexpected, like I did at Beaumont Wines, take a moment to appreciate the past and embrace the extraordinary.

At Beaumont Wines, we love hosting a wide range of events all year round. From bread making days to educational walks on the scenic Fynbos, there’s always something exciting happening at our vineyard. We even offer the adventurous Green Mountain Slackpacking Trail for those looking for a unique hiking experience.

3. The Delights of Food

So, I gotta tell you, I absolutely adore food. There were so many delicious dishes and local specialties to try, but I had to hold myself back from going overboard. It’s tough to resist, but that’s the truth. When we finally reached Elgin after a short drive, we arrived at Wildekrans Country House for an incredible olive adventure. I had a feeling this would involve olives and, of course, eating, so I was totally up for it.

At Wildekrans, they harvest their own olives right on the property, and they also have a selection of locally made oils from the Green Mountain area. To start off, we enjoyed a late afternoon snack of canapés on fresh ciabatta bread. The toppings were a medley of olive, tomato, onion salsa, and tzatziki. And let me tell you, it was pure bliss. I paired it with a glass of Barry Gould Family Wines, and it truly enhanced my olive experience. I couldn’t have asked for anything better.

It’s funny how I should’ve known that if the food kept going in this direction, I’d end up rolling home, but I didn’t mind. With a local’s recommendation and empty stomachs, we went to the Shuntin’ Shed for dinner. Right on the railway tracks (luckily, there are no more trains on this route), they turned an old locomotive shed into this quirky restaurant. They had a variety of delicious dishes to choose from, like the Foccacia with tossed rocket, gemsbok, chorizo, and bresola. Eventually, we settled on the thin, crispy marinated rib pizza. There’s nothing better than a thin, crispy crust with an amazing topping, and this pizza hit the spot!

The next morning, I woke up to a delicious continental breakfast at Wildekrans Country House. As I sat at a table overlooking the beautifully manicured gardens, my spirits started to lift. Despite being a bit down after our rugby team lost, the hearty breakfast made with love was just what I needed.

The breakfast spread included jugs of freshly squeezed apple juice, wholesome muesli, creamy yogurt drizzled with local honey, farm-fresh eggs, crispy bacon, and warm toast with homemade preserves. To top it all off, there was a pot of freshly brewed coffee waiting to be savored. It was the perfect start to the day.

In the afternoon, we made our way to Beaumont Wines in Botrivier and our hunger led us to a delightful discovery. We were welcomed with homemade chicken liver pate, a comforting Thai butternut soup, and the best-baked bread you can imagine – the kind your grandma used to make. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and it felt like stepping into a bygone era.

With a glass of the renowned Beaumont Chenin Blanc in hand, we found a peaceful spot under the shade of the trees. From there, we soaked in the breathtaking views of the serene lake and lush vineyards stretching out before us. The food, lovingly prepared with fresh ingredients, and the warm hospitality we experienced had made this an unforgettable dining experience.

For me, delicious food made from scratch and served with care is always a highlight. The appetite for good food is not just about satisfying hunger, it’s about reconnecting with our roots, cherishing tradition, and sharing moments of joy around the table. Whether it’s a hearty breakfast or a leisurely lunch, finding these gems with genuine hospitality is truly a treat.

4. Exploring the Nature’s Wonders

When it comes to outdoor adventures, hiking is definitely one of my favorite activities. And let me tell you, the area we visited is truly something special. It’s been officially designated as a biodiversity and eco route, making it the perfect place to dive deeper into the wonders of fynbos.

With the guidance of Annette from Beaumont, we set off on a captivating two-hour walk. And boy, did we uncover some fascinating discoveries! We quickly learned that fynbos is so much more than just the well-known Ericas, Restios, and Proteas. It’s a world unto itself, rich with diverse plant species and teeming with hidden secrets.

As we ventured deeper into the terrain, Annette shared her vast knowledge of the region’s ecology. It was like stepping into a new world, brimming with life and vitality. And to make the experience even more extraordinary, we were incredibly lucky to catch a glimpse of a majestic black eagle soaring through the sky.

Wow, let me tell you about this incredible adventure I had on the Green Mountain Trail! It’s this amazing trail that takes you on a four-day journey around Groenland Mountain. I was blown away by all the things I learned and experienced on this trail.

First of all, let me just say that the accommodations were absolutely top-notch. We stayed in four-star hotels, and they really made us feel pampered and comfortable. And the food! Oh my goodness, the food was out of this world. They served us delicious country dishes made with local ingredients, and the wine was incredible too. It was sourced from the surrounding area, so you know it was fantastic.

One of the highlights of the trail was the opportunity to swim in the lake. After a long day of hiking, there’s nothing better than a refreshing swim. And let me tell you, the lake was beautiful. Crystal clear water surrounded by lush greenery—it was like something out of a dream. Although, I have to admit, I was a little nervous when I heard about the barbel. Apparently, there’s a massive fish in the lake that sometimes likes to make a personal appearance. But luckily, I didn’t encounter it during my swim. Phew!

5. The Best Wine

Let me tell you about some amazing wines I discovered in the area. You won’t believe the incredible selection at Beaumont Wines, a family-run winery in the Walker Bay area. They’re famous for their unique and individualistic wines. They even have a special label called Roaul’s that offers a range of lifestyle wines. If you want something truly exceptional, you should also check out Wildekrans Wine Estate in Botriver. They have an outstanding selection of wines available at their guest house and cellar.

I had the chance to try different wines over the weekend, and let me tell you, they were absolutely perfect with the food we had. It’s amazing how a good wine can enhance the flavors of a meal. So if you’re looking for a wine that will take your dining experience to the next level, these wineries are definitely worth exploring.

It’s great to know that wine growers and grape producers in the area are making efforts to produce wines that consider the surrounding environment. As part of the Biodiversity Wine Initiative, they are changing their farming practices to prevent the loss of native plants and promote biodiversity.

By doing this, they are ensuring that the delicious wine we enjoy comes from a place that values and protects nature.

If you’re looking for more accommodation options in the Elgin Valley, click here.

Here’s a travel tip: The route also includes other areas like Bot River (Botrivier), Grabouw, Houw Hoek, and Villiersdorp. So, there’s plenty to explore along the way!

If you want to learn more about the Green Mountain Route and Trail, visit www.greenmountain.co.za.

For bookings at The Shuntin’ Shed in Bot River, you can call 028-284-9443.

It’s wonderful to see how the wine industry is taking steps to preserve and enhance the environment, ensuring that we can enjoy our favorite wines while also caring for the natural world. Cheers to that!