Synonymous with world-class fruit produce and Appletiser, The Elgin Valley is also the lesser-known little brother of the Cape Winelands. Nestled between endless groves of apple and pear trees, only 70 km from Cape Town, it enjoys cool sea breezes from the South Coast, allowing white wine varietals to flourish.

Join us as we explore the Elgin Valley’s rich history and delve into some of the enticing activities and accommodation it has to offer.

History:

* In the 1800’s Elgin was named after Elgine Harold, a young girl who tragically passed away from a snakebite near the Palmiet River.

* In 1988 Sir Antonie Viljoen bought land and his farm workers should be credited for growing the first fruit trees. Ever since, the apple and pear industry has boomed and locally produced Appletiser is sold widely across North America, Europe and Asia.

* He also played a progressive role in launching the first movement to allow women of all races to vote in 1907. Today the area is home to vineyards, vegetable farms and greenhouse grown flowers and rose gardens.

* For an informative outing, visit the Elgin Apple Museum in Grabouw, the town around which the Elgin Valley is centred.

Not a history buff? Don’t fret. There is plenty to keep the adventurous and reclining inclined, entertained!

To-do list for thrill seekers:

* Trail runs in the Lebanon Forest
* Hiking the Green Mountain Trail
* Mountain biking at Paul Cluver
* Cape Canopy Zipline Tours
* Elgin Forest Quad Biking
* Canoeing at Mofam River Lodge

To-do list for slow living:

* Fresh-water fishing at Mofam River Lodge.
* River cruise and drinks at Mofam River Lodge.
* Wine tastings and pairings at more than 13 wine farms, such as Paul Wallace, Paul Cluver, Iona, and South Hill.
* Fine dining at South Hill.
* Visit Peregrine Farm Stall and enjoy delectable springbok pies and Origin Coffee.
* Attend a summer concert at the Paul Cluver Amphitheatre.
* Enjoy traditional Texan BBQ dishes at The Hickory Shack and have a look at the “Pimp your beard” stall.
* Garden viewing (Elgin Open Gardens will be held on 28 and 29 October this year).
* Art exhibitions at Elgin Open Gardens.

Where to stay:

Inn On Highlands

Inn On Highlands offers quaint cottages on a working apple farm. Relaxation is guaranteed next to the tranquil bass dam and fishing is availalbe on a catch-and-release basis.

Mofam River Lodge

Mofam River Lodge boasts stand-alone cottages and a fully-licenced restaurant. This wonderful lodge offers sunset river barge cruises and quad biking!

Old Mac Daddy Luxury Trailer Park

Take a load off at Old Mac Daddy Luxury Trailer Park and enjoy a nostalgic camping holiday. Wholesome, healthy meals and snacks are available in the communal area throughout the day. Click here for more information.

Paul Wallace Wines and Guest Cottages

Surrounded by hills and vineyards, guests at Paul Wallace Wines and Cottages can sample award-winning wines. They also offer a mind-blowing chocolate and wine pairing.

Tangle Berry Cottage

Help yourself to seasonal fruit, herbs, and veggies at Tangleberry Cottage and prepare delicious pizza in the wood-burning oven.

Uilhuijs

Snuggle up next to the fireplace at Uilhuijs, located on a boutique apple and pear farm. The spacious veranda boasts a stunning view of the orchards.

Villa Exner Exclusive Boutique Hotel

Book before 30 November and get 25% off. Villa Exner Exclusive Boutique Hotel boasts a gourmet restaurant where local and international culinary trends are expertly showcased.

Festivals:

The Apple Blossom Festival is the best reason to visit the Elgin Valley in October. On the festival menu:

* 1 October: Trail run
* 6 – 7 October: Chardonnay Festival
* 15 October: Mountain bike race
* 28 October: Live music and picnic at Galileo Farm

All festival participants contribute to The Bee Effect Project. Remember, blossoms without bees means no more apples, pears and wine!

Now that the bee under your bonnet is buzzing with excitement for the Elgin Valley, book a charming cottage and secure your country getaway with LekkeSlaap!

Feature Image: Bigstock

* Related blogs: Fast Zipping to Slow Sipping – Elgin has it all | Photos of Elgin to fuel your weekend wanderlust