Stellenbosch is one of the oldest towns in South Africa dating back to the 18th century. It is well known by wine enthusiast and academic students. We wanted to share some outdoor activities that are well worth stopping for in the area!
Bethlehem Plaas Mountain Biking / hiking trails
The best mountain biking trails we have ever been on! There are loads of trails ranging in distance and difficulty. There are short contour loops for beginners with epic pump tracks on the downhills. More advanced tracks head up the mountains with large burns and jumps on the way down. There are many pump track sections great for getting used to the flow of your bicycle with small jumps to practice, larger jumps are optional. You might be lucky enough to spot some wild life while cycling. The tracks are well maintained and pretty smooth. Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the mountain scape views while getting some exercise done!
Babylonstoren Gardens
This well known wine estate has some of the most incredible gardens! There is so much to do at this wine estate from the spa, restaurant, wine tasting, farm stalll shopping or simply wandering the endless gardens. This farm grows and produces all their own food from fruits, vegetables and meat. You can walk through the crops witnessing the large diversity of plants. Our favourite was the cactus maze, the snake tunnel and bamboo forest. There are benches all throughout the gardens which allow you to sit peaceful enjoying the raw beauty of nature and the purest form of food. Make sure to stop in the farm shop on your way out to buy fresh produce straight out the gardens to take home. Fresh vegetables, high quality meat, daily baked breads and other deli goods.
Banhoek Chilli Oil Conservancy
Very funky modern restaurant only 1km from Bethlehem Plaas Mountain biking trails. As you arrive at the restaurant you can walk through the interactive/ wheel chair friendly way to witness where their home brewed chilli oil is made. There is lovely outdoor seating with shade and mountain views as well as koi fish ponds. Kiddie friendly with jungle gyms to play on. Make sure to try the chilli oil tasting platter - buy your favourite on the way out! We use ours on almost every meal!
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