When you cross over the impressive Helshoogte mountain you find yourself in the Dwarsrivier Valley. This beautiful valley is steeped in culture and history with interesting people and interesting stories. And the stunning mountain and valley landscapes serve as a soul-stirring 360-degree backdrop for a range of enriching indoor and outdoor experiences that will suit many interests and all ages.
These include, among others, wine tasting, easy hiking, guided walks, mountain biking and informative interaction with the local culture and heritage, the latter having been shaped by the tranquil river that runs right through the valley and which has made it fertile ground for agriculture over the centuries.
We invite you to explore and enjoy this playground for outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers and lovers of culture and wine in the celebrated Cape Winelands.
Where to eat: Banhoek Chilli Oil Company
The Banhoek Chilli Oil Company at the entrance of Kylemore produces a delicious chilli oil and staple in any kitchen. You can now taste and experience the perfect bite of flavour, in their family-friendly taste kitchen with a menu perfectly designed to showcase the amazing versatility of Banhoek Chilli Oil.
Hours: Monday to Sunday from 09h00 – 17h00. Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 09h00 – 20h30
More info: EAT@BCO – Banhoek Chilli Oil
What to do: Dwarsrivier Culture Walks
Professional guide and local teacher, Uhlan Lackay loves sharing the stories, history and nature surrounding the town of Pniël, close to Stellenbosch. Explore and discover the untouched beauty of Pniël in the Dwarsrivier Valley through touring and hiking. Follow the safe hiking routes to break away from the rush and see wildlife, birds, plants, mountains, waterfalls, and manmade caves in their natural environment.
Dwarsrivier Culture Walks offers three hikes. They are the Pniël Silver mine caves in the Simonsberg mountain, Kylemore Ostrich Kloof waterfalls in the Banhoek Conservancy, and the Lanquedoc Devils Kloof waterfalls also in the Banhoek Conservancy. Ideal for people who love an early 4-hour hike. This can be followed with a lovely food or wine tasting close by.
Tours: Monday to Sunday from 08h00 to 17h00. Excluding morning and night hikes
Contact: Get in touch with Uhlan via email Info@pnielc&ihikingtours.co.za or contact +27 84 428 4620
More info: Pniël Cultural and Environmental Hiking Tours – Your Guide To The Top (pnielhikingtours.co.za)
Where to taste: Rainbow’s End
As the Stellenbosch Wine Routes spill over the pass down into the Dwarsrivier Valley, there are quite a few great wine farms to choose from. To visit the newest tasting room, take a drive up the Zeven Rivier Road all the way to Rainbow’s End which has recently opened a tasting room. The brand home promises to make all your wine dreams come true in a beautiful space, with tastings of award-winning wines, drinking in the spectacular views and if you are feeling peckish or want to extend the stay, feast on delicious cheese and/or charcuterie platters.
Tasting hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays from 09h00 to 17h00, with last tasting at 16h30.
Tasting fee: R100 for five wines
More info: RainbowsEnd – Boutique Wines
If you enjoy the Dwarsrivier Valley and want to stay a bit longer, make yourself home.
Where to stay: Lumley’s Place
Family owned and operated, Peter and Benita both share a passion for the rich history, the friendly people, the beauty and the peaceful surroundings which makes one feel for a moment you stepped into a forgotten and bygone era. The perfect spot from where to explore the valley, meet the locals and above all breathe.
Contact: Get in touch via email on benita@lumleysplace.com or +27 82 850 9007
Book: Make your booking online
More info: https://lumleysplace.com/
Dwarsrivier Valley is a beautiful area between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek chockful of hidden gems, amazing people and a treasure trove of stories. Check back here soon as we unpack more of these amazing experiences.