Wellington is a hidden gem in the middle winelands of the Western Cape. Just an hours drive from the Cape Town City Centre and 20 minutes from Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franchhoek. With lush green valleys, vineyards and magnificent mountains there is so much to see, explore and do.
Wellington Winelands
Wellington is home to renown award winning wine estates (Dunstone included), and was dubbed the ‘the cradle of the contemporary wine industry in South Africa.’
The diverse landscape offers not only spectacular views but unique terroir driven wines from each estate and therefore much diversity. For the wine enthusiast, we recommend doing cellar tours and wine tastings. These happen throughout the year. Times may vary and booking is sometimes required, but most are open to individuals and couples popping in to explore.
If wine is not really to your tastes…. then explore Wellington further and you’ll find a selection of Gin Producers and Brandy Distilleries.
The Mountains
Surrounded by the Hawequa and Limiet mountains, Wellington boasts some fantastic hiking trails and mountain bike routes.
Hiking trails include: Bains Kloof, Tweede Tol, Limietberg Trail, The Rockhopper Trail and Happy Valley Trail in the Limietberg Nature Reserve. There is also a 36 kilometre Doolhof River walk.
Mountain Bikes – Dunstone have 2 good quality mountain bikes and helmets that can be hired for the day, if you enjoy exploring independently. These can be used on our vineyards or further out on the mountain bike trails.
There are two world class mountain bike trails closeby. Welvanpas, just 1.5km down the road, which has played host to the famous ABSA Cape Epic mountain bike race. A little further, about 15 minutes drive we have Rhebokskloof with a dedicated single track route which is gaining in popularity with local and international riders.
Guided mountain bike tours can be booked too, we recommend a local company Mrace. Their experienced and knowledgable guides offer several route options for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders. Routes offer breathtaking views of the Boland area with Vineyards, Olive farms and pine forests.
Riders are also welcome to bring their own bikes.
There is something for all ages and fitness levels. Don’t forget to take water, sunblock and a hat as it gets rather warm here in Wellington
Horse Back Riding
Our neighbouring farm offer beautiful tours through the vineyards on horse back. We highly recommend this unique and exclusive opportunity.
Fynbos Horse Trails, operate from Diemersfontein. Offering a variety of rides for novices and advanced riders. These horseback riding adventure trails vary from half day trails, wine tasting tours to comprehensive 3 day horse trails through the magnificent Berg River Valley. Booking is essential as they limit each group to 8 riding guests, allowing for personal attention.
Game Drives
Venture out to Bontebok Ridge Reserve in Wellington and go on a game drive through the natural fynbos and rugged mountain terrain. This area is part of the Renosterveld Conservancy in the Limietberg Valley.
Guided by knowledgeable and experienced individuals, you will see many indigenous species of wildlife such as Bontebok, found exclusively in the Cape, Eland, Wildebeest, Red Hartebeest, Springbok, Duiker and Grysbuck. The drive offers great photographic opportunities and includes a stop at a lapa for wine and a meal.
Tours are personal and limited to small groups, therefore booking is essential.
Game Drive Times: 09h00 to 12h00 and 16h00 to 19h00.
The Historical Town
The small town of Wellington is steeped in history and has many quirky shops and cafe’s to explore. There are also many historical buildings such as Boer War block houses, many churches and the Wellington Museum. Another place worth popping into is ‘Ouma-Granny’s House’ which provides a window on life in Wellington, in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century.
Mobile Beauty
Wellington is a true hidden gem, with so much to explore, taste and see. Do come visit.
For further info or for bookings, contact us and we will gladly assist our guests in making arrangements.