Six reasons why you should experience the Elgin Valley

The Elgin Valley is renowned for its apple and pear orchards and the production of high quality, cool-climate wines. The valley is a treasured location off the beaten track, circled by mountains in the Overberg region of the Western Cape. Travellers who are looking to beat the crowds are in for a treat, especially since the Elgin Valley has now gained local and international acclamation for its thriving wine industry and world-class vineyards. 

We’ve listed six reasons why you should experience the Elgin Valley: 

Joyriding the Elgin Valley is quite the experience 

Elgin is known as the hub of MTB in the Western Cape, but for the more relaxed traveller looking for an immersive experience of the valley, we recommend the Elgin Valley Winelands Wander guided tour.  This will provide you with the opportunity to meander through the Oak Valley and Paul Cluver wine estates. 

Experience the Elgin Cape Canopy Tour

The Elgin Canopy Tour is for the thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies. The canopy tour is, in essence, a zipline experience through the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom and according to locals, a visit to Elgin is incomplete without experiencing it. There are 11 ziplines and a suspension bridge over an iconic waterfall.

Grab a bite at the Hickory Shack

The Hickory Shack is located on the N2 and fits the small-town character of Elgin perfectly. It is a traditional BBQ smokehouse that is popular among locals and international travellers visiting the Valley. On your visit, make sure you try the beef brisket and belly ribs. 

Cherry Glamping 

If you’re planning to escape to the Elgin Valley for a few days, make sure you consider Cherry Glamping as an option. Cherry Glamping is a jewel in Elgin’s crown and is a unique rustic camping experience, ideal for the minimalist. There are self-catering tents, airstream trailers, tented camps and plenty of ablution facilities. 

Explore the Almenkerk Wine Estate

The Almenkerk Wine Estate is located along the Viljoenshoop Road and belongs to a Belgian/Dutch couple, Natalie and Joris van Almenkerk. The couple transformed the apple farm into a stellar vineyard. The estate is known for its whites wines and chardonnay. Travellers are welcome to experience their variation of wines in their elevated tasting room. The estate uses sustainable practices and is recognized as conservation champions by WWF. If you would like to explore the rest of the Winelands in the Western Cape. We recommend experiencing Explore Sideway’s tailor-made tours. 

Stay over at Old Mac Daddy 

Part caravan park, part designer farm lodge, Old Mac Daddy is the perfect destination to unwind. The destination is located in the heart of the Elgin Valley, with plenty of open spaces, mountain paths, a lakeside beach and a great variety of outdoor activities for the whole family. 

Travelling to the Elgin Valley

Elgin Valley is nestled between vineyards, apple and pear orchards and beautiful mountains. It is approximately an hour drive if you’re travelling from the Cape Town Central Business District via N2 highway. 

Another alternative to exploring the Winelands is through booking a bespoke private tour in Cape Town. This way you can experience a  sunset horse ride through the picturesque vineyards with a specialist guide, buy your favourite bottle of wine and soak up the sun.  

If you’re travelling from Cape Town International Airport, we recommend booking car rental and choosing a self-drive route to the Elgin Valley. The drive is worthwhile and there are plenty of opportunities to explore and capture your road trip. Once you’re there, you can book a guided cycle tour through the rest of the valley.