WALKS & HIKING TRAILS

The area around the Robertson Wine Valley offers some of the Western Cape’s most breathtaking mountain trails, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. With rugged landscapes, abundant fynbos, and awe-inspiring views, the region is a haven for outdoor adventurers. From leisurely walks to more challenging trails, there is something for everyone.

ARANGIESKOP HIKE

Arangieskop is a breathtaking 2-day hike in the Dassieshoek Nature Reserve, just outside Robertson. The route offers stunning views from start to end and features an overnight hut. The hike is strenuous and challenging and requires a good level of fitness to complete, as it involves steep ascents and rugged terrain.

More info and to book.

VROLIJKHEID NATURE RESERVE TRAILS

Vrolijkheid is a striking, rugged nature reserve in the Breede River valley, about 15km south of Robertson on the road to McGregor. The rocky landscape is starkly beautiful, dominated by patches of succulents, dwarf trees and shrubs. In spring, Vrolijkheid lives up to its name –happiness – as splashes of bright orange botterblom daisies decorate the reserve. There are two bird hides at the upper dam, one having universal access. There is also a bird hide at the lower dam.

The Braille Trail is a new trail for visually impaired visitors that follows the first kilometre of the Heron Trail (above). It leads to the first bird hide and back and has boards with interesting information in braille along the route. (1km - 1hour)

The Heron Trail is an easy that takes you to two dams, the first with a wonderful bird hide and the second with two bird hides, one of which is wheelchair-friendly (3km - 1hour)

The Rooikat Trail is a circular trail which winds up around the Elandsberg Mountains. On the way, you’ll see stunning views of the Langeberg and Riviersonderend Mountains, and the odd springbok nibbling on the succulent Karoo vegetation. The route is fairly strenuous and it can be very hot during summer. There is no water available along the route, hikers must take their own - 2 litres or more per person. If you set out early, you should make it back before nightfall. Start your outing with a visit to the information centre at the entrance for more information on the reserve and its vegetation. (19km, 7 - 8 hours)

The Agama Trail is a 9km route that starts at the parking bay by the information centre. It was done in collaboration with Friends of Vrolijkheid team. It leads the hiker to a dam known as Island dam, due to the small island found there, that has birdlife all year round when there is water in the dam. Here one can view various water birds. This trail is mostly along the management jeep track that takes one through the reserve to view some wonderful vistas or even the odd Duiker or Klipspringer for the sharp eyed hiker until it joins the Rooikat Trail. It then takes the hiker to the second bird sidelong the dam wall as to not disturb the bird life. The hiker can now follow the Heron trail back to the other bird hide and the parking area. (9km - 2 hours)

More info and to book.
Link to: https://www.capenature.co.za/reserves/vrolijkheid-nature-reserve

VAN LOVEREN TRAIL

The 7.5km Fish Eagle hiking trail starts on the estate and takes visitors along the river, as well as through the various veld types. One of the truly remarkable experiences you can enjoy, includes hearing the call of fish eagles. The local bird club visits the area and up to 92 species have been spotted during a single morning - the most ever in the Breede River Valley.

More info and to book.

FOSSIL HILLS WINE WALKS

Three Day Guided Wine Walk Trail:

Discover the charm of McGregor, a gem hidden in the Western Cape’s winelands. Fossil Hills Wine Walks invite you on a 3-day adventure through rolling vineyards and rich landscapes with moderate walks stretching 10-13 km daily.

Wander the valley’s paths, visit local wine farms, and savor the taste of the region’s exquisite wines. It’s a walk, a taste, and a journey all in one – a perfect blend of natural beauty and the art of winemaking.

Come, join us and step lightly through the splendor of McGregor.

One Day Guided Wine Walk Trail:

Short on time but keen for a little adventure? One Day Guided Walks at Fossil Hills are just the answer. Hit the trails for about 10km of natural beauty, and then unwind with a wine tasting and a delicious lunch to wrap up your Wine Walks adventure.

Here’s what’s new: Saturday walks! They’re open to everyone – whether you are staying at Fossil Hills or elsewhere.

Please book in advance to secure your spot.

Fossil Hills also offers pet friendly 1-Day Wine Walks!

More info and to book.

EXCELSIOR WINE WALKS

The Excelsior Wine Walk is an exciting guided excursion with daily distances of between 9 to 14 kilometres. Option to choose a 3 night or 4 night package. The walk stops off at more than half a dozen prominent wine estates and there are some non-wine related surprises along the way! Excelsior Manor is the starting and ending point for each day. A full continental and cooked breakfast buffet and gourmet 3 course dinners, inclusive of Excelsior wines, are served at the Manor House, whilst lunch is enjoyed at a venue along the route.

More info and to book.

theLAB WALK, WINE & WELLNESS RETREAT

theLAB Walk, Wine & Wellness Retreat includes a 3-day guided experience. You will be hosted at a modern Cape Dutch Style Guesthouse in the charming rural area of Klaasvoogds. A carefully curated 3-day retreat for the soulful traveler, the food & wine enthusiast and the lover of life. "A perfect blend of wellness that not only recharges your being but captivates all your senses.

The retreat will guide you through the valley and lead you to several wine farms and non-wine related locations."

More info and to book.