Nature Reserves
The Langeberg range certainly offers some magnificent mountain scenery, and spectacular floral displays. The mountains may not be as spectacularly endowed with botanical rarities as their counterparts in the Boland, but what they lack in rare species, they more than make up for with their overwhelming display of form and colour.
Marloth Nature Reserve is hidden away in the Swellendam Mountains and is a true gem in terms of botany. The reserve consists mostly of mountain fynbos with patches of forest. There are more than 25 species of erica flowers, and various protea species. The higher mountain peaks in Marloth get dusted with snow every winter, making it a picturesque destination for visitors looking to enjoy the hiking and mountain biking trails of the reserve.
Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve comprises of 250ha of indigenous forest in the Langeberg region, named in honour of the ‘big father’ Roelof Oelofse, the original owner of the land. It was declared a World Heritage Site and houses a significant stretch of indigenous afromontane forest. Day walks and mountain biking are popular activities in this reserve.
Boosmansbos Wilderness Area is right next to Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve in the Langeberg region, and boasts with majestic mountain terrains, indigenous forests and mountain fynbos. Visitors wanting to explore the beautiful area can book an exclusive hiking trail, allowing you to traverse the conservancy’s 14 200 hectares. It is also a World Heritage Site, as it falls within the Cape Floral Kingdom.
Robertson Wine Route
The Langeberg region is home to various exceptional wineries, and the Robertson wine valley is certainly no exception. The valley’s fertile soil allows for some of the best wines in South Africa to be produced here. There are a range of wineries and estates to visit, offering wine tastings, cellar tours and paired dining experiences.
Zandvliet Wine Estate is known as the home of Shiraz in South Africa. They offer a rich, quality range of Shiraz wines from quality vineyards in the area. The estate is one of the first to have bottled the Shiraz cultivar. They offer wine tasting with a tour conducted by the wine manager. Graham Beck Wine Estate has a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and produces a sophisticated Brut Rose MCC. Excelsior Wine Estate offers visitors the chance to blend and bottle their own wine creation, creating an authentic viticulture experience. Robertson Winery is best known for their top-quality wines natural wine making process. Pop in to taste their superb range of wines, including Chenin blanc, Pinotage, Shiraz and Merlot.