Riders and their supporters won’t be short of things to do when the Absa Cape Epic makes its three night stop at Saronsberg, the stunning wine estate nestled in the Tulbagh Valley.
Besides the small matter of two testing stages to complete on March 14 and 15, riders will be able to sample the delights of Saronsberg as they relax in the afternoons and evenings. Their supporters, with a bit more time on their hands, can also enjoy the estate and the area’s offerings while their friends, relatives or spouses are out on the trails.
Those not racing and who might want to indulge in a bit of mountain biking themselves can sample the routes in the valley and surrounds, one of which goes right through Saronsberg for part of its 24km.
The less energetic among the visitors might want to try some of the wares that have made Saronsberg renowned across the country – its wines.
Saronsberg is a premium wine producer and is one of South Africa’s top 10 wine farms. In both 2010 and 2015 it was awarded the title of Wine Producer of the Year according to the prestigious SAWi (South African Wine index) ratings. SAWi is an independent rating organisation that reviews a wine’s performance internationally over a number of years.
For those with a cultural bent, the estate’s cellar also hosts the celebrated Saronsberg Collection, a permanent exhibition of contemporary South African art. Celebrated artists whose works feature in the exhibition include Paul du Toit, Angus Taylor, Colbert Mashile, Diane Victor and Walter Battiss.
There is accommodation available on the farm for those who want a premium experience. Newly renovated, cosy and well-equipped one- or two-bedroom self-catering cottages with spacious open plan kitchens, lounges and dining areas with high ceilings are available.
All units are fully equipped, have their own built-in fireplace and braai areas and offer breathtaking views of the stunning valley.
Nearby farms for more wine and food tasting include Krone, Rijks Private Cellar and Montpellier. For a different taste experience visitors can try Oakshurst olives or Moniki Chocolates.
Church Street in Tulbagh is the venue for many historical museums and churches, and check out which South African artists are performing at the Saronsberg Theater.
There’s also a different type of riding available – on horses. Horseabout takes these riders on the trails and paths on the foothills of the Witzenberg, close to where the mountain bikers will be sweating up the slopes.
And the more adventurous can make their way to the Ceres Zipslides for an adrenaline rush of note.
Historically, Saronsberg formed part of Twee Jonge Gezellen, until recently the second oldest family-owned wine estate in South Africa, dating back more than 300 years. In the mid-1950s, the original farm was divided between two brothers, laying the foundation for Saronsberg as we know it. In February 2003, a large part of the farm was destroyed by a devastating fire, which led to the establishment of new vineyards under the watchful eye of general manager and winemaker, Dewaldt Heyns.
After more than a decade of winemaking, Saronsberg is proudly one of South Africa’s finest wine cellars. With a hands-on philosophy, hard work and no compromise when it comes to quality, Saronsberg has consistently raked in prominent awards both locally and internationally.
* Riders will travel to Saronsberg on the afternoon of 13 March after the Prologue and leave on the morning of 16 March.
www.saronsberg.com
http://www.ceresadventures.co.za/
http://www.horseabout.co.za/
http://www.tulbaghtourism.co.za/
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