Things-to-do
Arts & Culture
Gedenkschool
021 868 2481
The historic Gedenkschool der Hugenoten (Huguenot Memorial School) was established on 1 February 1882. The Genootskap van Regte Afrikaners ("Association of Real Afrikaners"), headed by the Rev S.J. du Toit, created new appreciation for the role that mother-tongue tuition should play in education. To give expression to this ideal, the school was constructed on the 200th Anniversary of the arrival of the French Huguenots in 1688. It remains a living monument to the rich legacy left to us by these pioneers.
Breytenbach Centre
021 873 2786
This complex, which was once the childhood home of legendary poet and writer Breyten Breytenbach, is dedicated to community arts and culture. It boasts a gallery and a number of resident artists who can be seen working on a daily basis, as well as a theatre-café, which provides a platform for local dramatic and musical talent.
Ouma Granny's House
021 873 3093
A quaint Victorian house filled with treasures and artefacts from the unique collection of Joyce Hoogenhout-Morse. The collection was donated to the then Wellington Municipality with the intention of preserving and exhibiting the articles for future generations. The generous donor, Mrs Joyce Hoogenhout-Morse, was the wife of Imker FM Hoogenhout, the grandson of CP Hoogenhout, one of the founders of Afrikaans.
Wellington Museum
021 873 4710
Wellington Museum features diverse cultural material from the many ethnic groups and pioneering individuals who contributed towards establishing the Wamakersvallei. There is also a unique collection of Egyptian artefacts dating back to the time of King Akhenaten (± 1375 BC). Historical Town Walks: Visit places of interest associated with Wellington's rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Brandy Route
Brandy Route
021 873 4604
Wellington boasts the only dedicated artisanal pot-still brandy route in the country.
Bird Watching
Bird Watching
Wellington is a popular birding destination, being a mixed farming and fynbos biome. Species which are aided by agriculture abound, but close by in the protected fynbos areas, the shyer endemics may be spotted. The nature trails are the best spots for viewing, and some guest farms have lists of birds recorded for their farms. The best spot for waterfowl viewing is the sewage works between Wellington and Paarl, which has a bird sanctuary, complete with hides and trails.
Cycling & Mountain Biking
Mountain Bike Trail
021 873 7434
The route is mainly single-track and winds through orchards, vineyards and pristine Fynbos, ascending onto the Groenberg, before descending steeply down to the Kromme River. Choose from this technically-challenging steep finish, or a slightly less challenging "chicken run", both of which run along the banks of a tranquil stream through a natural forest. The second part of the route takes you towards Bainskloof Pass, up a strenuous single-track climb and finally back towards Welvanpas farm, on a single-track carved into steep slopes of the Bainskloof foothills. Cycle along the historic Bainskloof Pass and enjoy the natural splendour and spectacular views.
Farm Tours (Organic)
Foxenburg Estate
021 873 5617
Foxenburg Estate is situated on the spectacular northern slopes of the Groenberg Mountain just 15 minutes from the center of Wellington. The estate has been recognised as a priority biodiversity site in the cape Floristic region and has become a committed partner with Cape Nature in their stewardship program. They are also a member of the Renosterveld conservancy which is the largest remaining intact piece of Renosterveld left in the Western Cape. Proud producers of award-winning goats' milk cheeses, olive oil and oyster mushrooms.
Upland Organic Estate
021 864 1184
Tucked away in a corner, at the end of a dirt road leading out of Wellington in the Boland, you will find the rustic, unassuming organic estate, Upland. You could be forgiven for thinking you were in Tuscany, as apart from the Hawekwa mountain range, which cradles the estate, there is a similar wonderfully rustic and timeless feel to this part of the world. Upland - the name comes from the English for Boland - is a small SGS certified fruit and wine farm that has been producing world class organic Brandy, Grappa, Port and Cabernet Sauvignon for over a decade. Self-guided walks and trails.
Bloublommetjieskloof
021 873 5617
South Africa's original Bio-Dynamic farm, established in 1968, with a variety of organic food, beauty and household products. The farm has since been certified biodynamic with Demeter and produces a range of dairy products, fresh and preserve products and the Bloublommetjieskloof range of cleaning and body care products.
Klein Rhebokskloof
021 873 4115
Established by olive and olive-oil pioneer Reni Hildenbrand, this farm is open for sampling and purchasing of olive products by appointment.
African Mangoes
Experience the sweet, tropical delight of African Mangoes, a unique fruit bursting with flavor and packed with essential nutrients, perfect for a healthy and delicious snack anytime, anywhere!
Game Drives
Bontebok Ridge
021 864 1169
A game-viewing experience in pristine, unspoilt Cape Renosterveld with a rich biodiversity of plant, bird and animal life.
Scenic Drives
Scenic Drives
(Mountain Passes, Drakenstein Valley and surrounds). Spend a day touring the lush valley farmlands and breathtaking mountain ranges. Take a circular drive, incorporating the spectacular Bainskloof and other local passes, each with its own fascinating history. Experience the unique beauty of indigenous Fynbos, and observe fascinating local animal, bird and insect life (including the occasional Caracal and Leopard), in their natural habitat. The landscape, architecture, flora and fauna offer unparalleled photographic opportunities.
Sporting Activities
Sporting Activities
Many significant rugby matches are played at the Boland Stadium, which is the training ground of many of SA's most famous sporting personalities. It is the home of the Boland Kavaliers and the headquarters of Boland Rugby Union. Other sporting facilities in town include swimming, tennis, cricket, squash, bowls and hockey.
Trails & Routes
Wellington Wine Walk
083 313 8383
Leisurely-paced walks in the foothills of the Hawequa mountains, through Fynbos, vineyards, olive groves, buchu and vine-cutting plantations, and of course, wine tasting. Winner of the Best of Wine Tourism Award 2008.
Doolhof River Walk
021 873 6911
A leisurely meander starting at Doolhof Wine Estate and crossing the Kromme Rivier at the foothills of Bainskloof Pass.
Fynbos Horse Trails
082 335 8132
Guided rides on docile horses amidst the Fynbos in the foothills of the Hawequa mountains, combined with country cuisine and wine tasting. Katrin, the proprietor of Fynbos Trails, is an experienced horsewoman, hiker, translator (French, Afrikaans and English) and guide with over 17 years of experience, largely in the Berg River Valley area.
Hiking & Walking
Limietberg Nature Reserve
021 426 0723
Many of the walks within the Limietberg Nature Reserve start at the top of the Bainskloof Pass at Bainskloof Corner Lodge. These range from short ambles to full-day or overnight hikes and are well worth the effort for the spectacular views at the top of the pass! Overnight Bookings for the Limietberg Hiking Trail and general tourism enquiries: 021 423 9611.
Limietberg Hiking Trail
Distance: Day One - 13km. Day Two -
roughly 8km, depending on the route you choose. (Groups
limited to 12 people, with a maximum of 24 people per
day)
Description: This trail
has now changed from a linear trail to a circular trail,
beginning at Tweede Tol (safe parking available) and
continuing in a southerly direction to Eerste Tol and
Bainskloof Corner Lodge. There are three hiking options
which complete the circuit back to Tweede Tol the following
day: (1) Return via the previous day's route. (2) Walk back
along the Bainskloof pass for a cultural and historical
perspective. (3) Hike along the Rockhopper trail. (This
river-based walk may only be done in summer.)
Bobbejaans River Trail
Distance: 9km (6 hours)
Description: This is a moderate
out-and-back trail that runs along the Bobbejaans River (a
tributary of the Witte River) in Bainskloof and ends at a
waterfall. Starting at Eerste Tol parking area where
vehicles can be left, this trail crosses a wooden style over
a wire fence, and leads down into the kloof, crossing the
Witte River. A short climb out of the kloof leads to a
contour high above the Bobbejaans River. From here it is an
easy walk to the waterfall at the top of the kloof. About
3,5km along the trail, a turn-off leads down to swimming
pools on the river. Just before the three-tiered Bobbejaans
waterfall, the last 750m of the footpath cuts into the steep
slopes on the right of the kloof. The Limietberg trail is
very popular in summer when the Disas and giant Proteas are
in bloom. In winter the Witte River may overflow, making it
dangerous to cross, and the trail may be closed in winter.
Happy Valley Trail
Distance: 9km (6 hours)
Description: This easy out-and-back walk
starts in Bainskloof and is the ideal walk for families and
beginners. Vehicles may be parked at Eerste Tol. The trail
leads up a jeep track past the ruins of an old house and a
monument commemorating the 1895 Witte River disaster, and
features a number of beautiful and accessible rock pools.
The secluded Junction Pools, where the two rivers meet and
the route ends, is the most popular destination. Return via
the same path.
Rock Hopper Trail
Distance: 8km (6 hours)
Description: This linear trail in
Bainskloof is moderate to difficult, depending on your level
of fitness. The strenuous sections involve rock hopping,
swimming and lots of adventure. It starts at Bainskloof
Lodge on Bainskloof Pass, and follows the Witte River to the
finish at the Tweede Tol picnic site. Find your own way down
the boulder-strewn riverbed surrounded by riverine bush.
Although most of the water obstacles can be side-stepped,
you will have to wade through a pool near Tweede Tol.
Because it is a linear trail, you will need a vehicle at the
start and another at the finish. The route is not open when
the river is too high.
Horseshoe (Perdeskoen)
The Horseshoe, which runs from Blouvlei Road to Berg Street,
circles the town of Wellington, passing through suburbs and
attractive farmland.
This easy route is very popular for
joggers, cyclists and dog walkers.
The trip around the
horseshoe is approximately 7 km.
Wellington Golf Course
Wellington Golf Club
021 873 1919
Established in 1908, Wellington Golf Club is a well-manicured 9-hole golf course with a par 70 rating. Four new greens were recently established to celebrate the centenary of this venerable institution, which is known for its warm hospitality towards visitors, and pleasant club facilities. Wellington Golf Club boasts a membership of 850 and is committed to junior golf, working closely with the Boland Golf Union in its various development programmes. A tranquil environment and magnificent mountain views add to the enjoyment of this compact but challenging course.
Wellington Wine Route
Wine Route
021 873 4604
Wellington wine route is one of the most diverse and compact in the Western Cape, with its 30-odd multiple-award-winning members (ranging from large and venerable co-operatives to the smallest boutique wineries) all within easy reach of each other.