The last two nights of the 2016 Absa Cape Epic will be spent on Boschendal, where riders and their supporters will discover much more than a wine estate.
Appropriately, one of the delights on offer is mountain biking, with ready access to the trails on Boschendal itself and on Banhoek Conservancy. Energetic supporters could also try the horse and carriage rides, trail running, or hiking. And there are food garden or vineyards tours and, of course, the fabulous wine-tasting cellar.
But riders who have been out on the route for much of the day might be more inclined towards the estate’s renowned farm-to-table cuisine.
The Cape colony has its roots as a refreshment station; a welcoming stop for weary travellers where food, wine and hospitality were never in short supply.
Similarly, the Cape Dutch farms that fanned outwards from the harbour at Table Bay offered some of the finest hospitality in the land and the “Cape table” was always laden with fresh farm produce and delicious local cuisine.
At Boschendal today little has changed, with its restaurants offering an array of authentic culinary experiences. Its focus is on providing flavourful and nourishing farm-to-table food; celebrating the bountiful produce of Boschendal and the Franschhoek valley with menus that shift with the seasons. Much of the fresh produce on their plates is sustainably grown on Boschendal Farm, and where possible it sources other ingredients from farms and small producers in the surrounding winelands Three-quarters of the ingredients on its daily restaurant menu are sourced within 30km of the farm.
The estate’s flagship Werf Restaurant has acclaimed chef Christiaan Campbell running the show and is a firm favourite with food lovers.
Whether enjoying the delights of the Werf or picnicking on the grounds (Boschendal has become one of the most popular summer picnic options in the Cape winelands), riders and their supporters will be able to soak up the estate’s amazing atmosphere and surroundings.
It is encircled by dramatic mountain landscapes, lush gardens, vines and pastures and has the finest setting of all the stately farmsteads in the Drakenstein Valley.
The original farmstead complex is now a national monument with a rich and intriguing history of more than 300 years. Founded in 1685, the estate has been meticulously restored and has recently undergone a series of renovations and re-inventions, all adding to the enjoyment of visitors and to its status as a national treasure and Cape winelands icon.
Boschendal is, of course, already internationally renowned for its award-winning wines. But in recent years its vineyards and fruit trees have been joined by vegetable gardens and a growing herd of free range, 100% pasture-fed Angus cattle.
For those who want to escape the tents or camper vans there is also stunning accommodation on the farm, which is located equidistant between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.
It includes 22 fully renovated and restored farm-labourer cottages, which retain their rural charm but now incorporate massive bathrooms with walk-in showers and Le Creuset-equipped kitchens. Many of the cottages were originally designed by the legendary Sir Herbert Baker, including Rhodes Cottage at the foot of the Simonsberg.
There are therefore many ways to enjoy Boschendal – wine tasting, picnics in a picture-perfect setting, eating at one of three restaurants, exploring the museum in the 1812 Manor House, walking the gardens, horse and carriage rides, hiking, mountain biking or swimming in in pristine mountain streams – all adding up to a stylish low-key farm experience.
And bear in mind that Boschendal makes a for a beautiful wedding and function venue. The Boschendal Manor House, a national monument, can accommodate up to 40 guests and is suitable for corporate meetings, intimate dinners or special events.
The Rhone Homestead, with three separate function rooms, has been converted into an exclusive venue for small functions and conferences. Up to 100 guests can be accommodated.
And then there’s the Olive Press, with exposed natural poplar roof trusses, floor to ceiling glass doors and stunning views over meadow gardens to the Groot Drakenstein Mountain. It can accommodate up to 350 people.
Karl Platt and Christoph Sauser win NTT Masters category in fine style
UCI Mountain Bike World Cup presented by Shimano comes to the Western Cape in 2018
World-leading bike care brand joins Absa Cape Epic sponsor family
Bathroom products frontrunner grows its relationship to sponsor Women’s category
