Hiking Adventures
Guided nature hikes and more
Experience the natural beauty of the Helderberg Basin
![people on a mountian](/landing/gallery/intro-image.png)
About us
We have been passionate hikers all our life. As we live so close to the Helderberg mountains it was
natural for us to explore our area. We feel very passionate about the last remaining natural habitat
that still covers large areas of the Helderberg basin.
We have enjoyed many adventurous hours
exploring these last wilderness areas. As we explored it became clear to us that a large portion of
our natural habitat was inaccessible to the public. We made it our mission to work together with private
farms to make these areas accessible in a structured way. This would be beneficial to both the public
and the farm owners. The result is a well organised net of hiking trails in the Helderberg basin that
cater for different fitness levels.
These hiking trails take you on a journey through precious fynbos,
allow you to taste wine and olives of world famous wine farms and let you enjoy the delicate cuisines
of top restaurants.
![looking down over a mountian](/landing/gallery/about-us.png)
Our Trails
![table mountain](/landing/gallery/morgenster.jpg)
Helderberg Heritage Trail
4-Day Slackpacking (with accommodation)
Unwind, explore and indulge in an unforgettable 4-day slack packing trail!
Embark on a journey of discovery with our 4-day slack packing trail nestled in the heart of the Helderberg basin. Surrounded by majestic mountains and breathtaking sea views, you'll traverse pristine fynbos, wander through historic vineyards, and encounter wildlife on a game farm. Follow the footsteps of history along an old wagon trail, and enjoy the savor of award-winning wine and cuisine at three world-renowned wine farms.
Let nature's wonders unfold as you create memories to last a lifetime.
Tour Highlights
Led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic nature guides, the highlights will include:
- Daily guided nature walks to explore the rich biodiversity of plant and animal life
- Fabulous views over the mountains and False Bay
- Walk through vineyards and olive plantations
- Experience a historic ox waggon trail
- Walk through a game reserve which is part of the quagga breeding project
- Visit a world renown, local artist
- Enjoy a culinary adventure where you visit multiple famous wine farms, each offering a unique dining experience , perfectly paired with exquisite wines
This package includes a walking tour and you need to be moderately fit and proper walking shoes to be worn.
Guided walks, all meals, wine tasting and transport included.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive at the 4 star luxury Lalapanzi lodge in the late afternoon, settle in and enjoy a dinner at the lodge.
Day 2
You will be dropped off at the top of the Sir Lowry's Pass, where the first day's hike starts. The highlight of the day are to hear the history of the area and see the old cannon and waggon tracks that are cut into the rocks. It is hair raising to see where the waggons had to cross. On your way down you can enjoy magnificent views over False Bay and the Helderberg basin. You will end off at the impressive Idiom Restaurant, where you can enjoy an Italian pizza and taste some of their wines.
Day 3
Your walk starts at the Idiom restaurant where you will be dropped off. Your guide will lead you on route past huge granite boulders and pristine fynbos. The views over the ocean and mountains are stunning. Your walk enters the Wedderwill game farm where you can see zebras that are part of the quagga breeding project, wildebeest, hartebeest, bontebok and springbok. You will end off at your accommodation at Lalapanzi Lodge. In the afternoon you will be visiting a world renown local artist, Rene Snyman.
Day 4
You will be dropped off at the conservation area on Vergelegen wine estate. From here the hike starts. Together with your guide you will be exploring the magnificent fynbos, looking at the diversity of plants, birds and other critters. The view on the way is marvellous, as you will be surrounded by mountains and the ocean. After the walk you can spend some time exploring the world renown Vergelegen wine estate on your own and enjoy a meal at the Stables restaurant.
Day 5
Your hike starts at Lalapanzi and you will be walking a route from Lalapanzi to Waterkloof wine estate and then down to Morgenster wine and olive estate. On your way you will be passing through vineyards, precious fynbos and olive plantations. The views over the ocean are especially beautiful on this route. Hear about the endangered Renosterveld that occurs in the area, geology and archeology of the area, more about wine and olive farming practices and enjoy wine and olive tastings with a platter at famous Morgenster wine estates.
Join us on a four day trail and discover the Helderberg Basin.
![vergelegen](/landing/gallery/vergelegen.png)
Vergelegen Biodiversity Trail
2-Day Slackpacking (with accommodation)
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the wonders of Vergelegen estate!
Vergelegen is a world-renowned wine estate which is known for it's rich history dating back over 300 years, picturesque landscapes, and dedication to producing world-class wines. Its meticulously preserved Cape Dutch architecture, expansive gardens, and commitment to sustainable farming practices contribute to its unique charm and appeal as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts and history boffins alike.
What further makes Vergelegen stand out, is that it has a 1900 Ha private nature reserve that has the same protection status as the Kruger National Park. It falls under the Cape Floristic Region, which has the most diverse and unique biodiversity ecosystems in the world. In this nature reserve there are plant species that were thought to be extinct. There are over 20 plant species that occur in this area that are on the red data list and classified as critically endangered. 159 species of birds have been recorded and many of them, including the blue cranes, nest in this area.
Tour Highlights
Led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic nature guides, the highlights will include:
- Guided nature walks to explore the rich biodiversity of plant and animal life
- Top rated nature guides
- Includes two nights at the 5 star Erinvale hotel.
- Fabulous views over the mountains and False Bay
- Experience exclusive nature at it's best: only one group per day!
- Opportunity to spot and photograph local birds
- Cuisine to suit all tastes
- Indulge your senses in an unforgettable wine tasting experience
- Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of wine making with an exclusive wine cellar tour
- Walk through the lush gardens of Vergelegen
- Experience true tranquility and unmatched hospitality at your accommodation in the Erinvale hotel
This package includes a walking tour and you need to be moderately fit and proper walking shoes to be worn.
Guided walks, all meals, wine tasting and transport included.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive at the luxurious comfort of Erinvale Hotel, where every detail is crafted to ensure a restful and rejuvenating stay.
Day 2
Begin your adventure with an exclusive guided nature walk into our pristine conservation area, a sanctuary boasting precious fynbos and awe-inspiring vistas framed by majestic mountains.
After your invigorating walk, indulge in a delectable lunch at our esteemed restaurant, savoring the flavors of locally sourced ingredients expertly prepared to perfection. Then, immerse yourself in the art of winemaking with a guided tasting of our exquisite wines, each sip a testament to our rich heritage and dedication to excellence.
Take leisurely time to explore our enchanting gardens, adorned with splashes of vibrant colors and historic buildings steeped in centuries of tradition.
Day 3
Your day starts with a guided walk that will allow you to explore the serene beauty of our expansive grounds as you stroll past a tranquil dam, encounter unique fynbos species, and catch glimpses of majestic wildlife on the game farm. Your adventure culminates at our iconic winery, perched atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
After a guided tour through our historic winery, indulge in a sumptuous lunch at a renowned restaurant, where every dish is a celebration of local flavors and culinary excellence. Then, wander through our enchanting gardens, adorned with vibrant blooms and tranquil pathways, before heading to Morgenster for a delightful olive tasting experience.
Join us at Vergelegen for two days of exploration, relaxation, and sensory delights that will leave you with lasting memories of South Africa's finest offerings.
![idiom](/landing/gallery/idiom.jpg)
Idiom Boulder trail
1-Day Slackpacking (with accommodation)
Experience the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence on our scenic hike.
This trail starts at the Idiom restaurant which is situated at a breathtaking location, offering stunning panoramic views of both the Atlantic and False Bay oceans and being surrounded by majestic mountains.
The trail meanders up towards the mountains, taking you through precious fynbos and past interesting shaped granite boulders.
Tour Highlights
Led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic nature guides, the highlights will include:
- Fabulous views over the mountains and False Bay
- Being enchanted by the biodiversity of plant and animal life surrounding you
- Countless photo opportunities along the way
- Learn more about the history of the area
- Experiencing nature on foot, free from the constraints of roads and vehicles
- Enjoy a wine tasting where some wines are produced from traditional Italian grapes
- Indulge in a delicious Italian Pizza after the walk
This package includes a walking tour and you need to be moderately fit and proper walking shoes to be worn.
Join us on a memorable one day trail at Idiom.