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The Elgin
Valley
borders the Kogelberg
Biosphere Reserve,
a protected area of
magnificent fynbos.
More than 1600 plant
species occur here,
of which 150 are endemic.
Also known as a forest
town with its pine plantations,
the pristine environment
of Grabouw
/ Elgin Valley
offers a rich and varied
experience to visitors.
Travelling along the
N2 highway from Somerset
West the road soon climbs
the heights via Sir
Lowry's Pass before
descending through the
pleasant countryside
of the Elgin
Valley.
Orchard Farm
Stall
& Coffee Shop is
the first farm stall
along the N2 to stop
for refreshment. Peregrine
Farm Stall
& Farmer's Grill
is the next stop, situated
next to the Viljoenshoop
Road that leads to Duncan's
Roses, Applewaith Farm,
Oak Valley Flowers and
Windermere Apple Cider.
Peregrine is famous
across the land for
excellent home-made
biltong and a variety
of traditional South
African treats prepared
in their bakery and
Food Bar.
Viljoenshoop Road is
a scenic delight. It
meanders through fruit
orchards and past labourer's
cottages. Follow the
road until you see the
turn-off to Duncan's
Roses
on your right. Duncan's
Roses
has the most spectacular
rose-garden, displaying
various different roses
in all colours of the
rainbow. It is a magnificent
setting for taking awesome
pictures. Please take
care not to pick any
roses. Following the
Viljoenshoop Road back
towards the N2, you
will see the turn-off
to Windermere. Windermere
pure apple cider is
made in a traditional
way from fresh apples,
containing no preservatives
or additives. It is
similar to the German
'Apfel Wein' and is
a pleasant thirst quenching
drink. Cider tasting
is available to visitors.
Returning towards the
N2 from Windermere,
turn right onto the
N2 highway and drive
until you see the turn-off
to De Rust Estate on
your left. Paul
Cluver Estate
has everything in one
- cool climate wines,
a forest amphitheatre
and an elegant Guest
House. Enjoy continental
breakfasts, a quiet
afternoon's relaxation
in the small library
or enjoy a picnic on
the estate.
From De Rust Estate
turn left, travel along
the N2 until you see
Houw Hoek Farmstall
on your right. Here
you will find farm fresh
produce, a lovely coffee
shop set in the majestic
mountains with good
service and the most
delicious lunches and
breakfasts. If you prefer
the outdoors you may
order a picnic and relax
under the oaks, next
to a dam, stocked with
rainbow trout - try
the art of fly fishing.
Across the entrance
to Houwhoek
Farm Stall
you will see the entrance
to go to Houwhoek
Inn.
The Houw
Hoek Inn
is the oldest licensed
hotel in South Africa.
The existing ground
floor dates back to
1779 and the adjoining
old farm building has
been restored into dining-
and conference rooms
retaining this original
charm and character.
Enjoy a Sunday lunch,
pub, dinner and dance
or experience the charm
of staying at the Houw
Hoek Inn,
the oldest hotel in
South Africa.
From Houwhoek
the road leads to Caledon,
from where you can explore
the 'Keep
it Country Route'
or go to Hermanus 'Heart
of the Whale Route'.
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