When one thinks of South Africa’s famous Cape Winelands, the names of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Constantia are ones you’ve likely heard. But, at just over an hour’s drive from the Mother City of Cape Town, Elgin is a hidden gem that few international tourists add to their South African travel itinerary. From hiking or mountain biking through the area to ziplining, wine tasting, enjoying excellent local restaurants or simply slowing down, discover what cool things to do in the beautiful, off-the-beaten-track Elgin Valley in South Africa, along with tips where to stay and where to eat.
Historically, the area is known as an important fruit-growing area along the Cape, whilst more recently it is making itself a name for local wines. It is the only South African wine region surrounded by 4 mountains, creating a unique microclimate that produces some spectacular wines. They are most well-known for their fruity sauvignon blanc, pinot noir, and chardonnay and also produce and export a large amount of apples. Elgin has more recently developed a large and thriving wine industry, and wines from the region have won several international awards. It is South Africa's coolest climate wine growing region.
Getting to Elgin
A simple, one-hour drive from the Cape Town International Airport will get you to Elgin. After renting a car at the airport, directions are super simple. Upon leaving the airport, merge onto the freeway and only have to take two turns to get to your destination, South Hill Winery. You’ll wind up the mountainous hills while overlooking the coast and will pass the wine-growing towns like Stellenbosch on the way. It’s a beautiful drive, just be sure to account for traffic if you’re driving during rush hour times.
Elgin is a large, lush area of land, circled by mountains, in the Overberg region of South Africa. The Elgin Valley is one of the more intensively farmed districts of South Africa and produces 60% of the national apple crop.
Wine Tasting and Vineyards
Elgin is renowned for its exceptional wines with a particular focus on cool-climate varietals. The area benefits from its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which brings cool winds in over the mountains, resulting in a longer growing season and slower grape ripening. The farms here are particularly loved for their crisp and vibrant Sauvignon Blancs, balanced Chardonnays and delicate Pinot Noirs. Also, finely crafted MCCs made in the traditional Champagne style. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in wine tastings and cellar tours at various vineyards and wineries. Here you can learn more about the world of winemaking and savor the exquisite flavors that Elgin’s vineyards have to offer.
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Wine tasting at South Hill Vineyards is an experience not to be missed. South Hill offers the top-rated rose in South Africa and a delicious sauvignon blanc as well. We drank a number of glasses while staying cool from the South African sun.
Wineries to Visit in Elgin
- Charles Fox: This is the winery to visit for sparkling wine as it is one of the few sparkling wine producers in the whole area. The cooler climate in Elgin allows Charles Fox to grow some grape varieties that also grow in Champagne, France. Charles Fox produces all estate wines, enjoy a glass while overlooking the picturesque valley.
- South Hill Vineyards: Wander around the vines and sculptures until you find your way to the end. We really enjoyed their large selection of wines across three different labels. We absolutely loved the King of the Hill Chardonnay.
- Oneiric: Oneiric had a really wide selection of wines, across two labels, so there are two tasting flights to choose from, either Oh! or the Oneiric label.
Elgin’s sophistication and reach are due in large part to the grape varietals, the climate, and the attention from the winemakers of the area. These elements define a style of wine found nowhere else in South Africa, or the world for that matter. We hope you will experience the superb wines that make Elgin a favorite for wine drinkers worldwide.
Top 3 Elgin Wine Farms
Local Markets and Food
For foodies, one of the best places to experience Elgin’s growing gastronomic scene is at the Elgin Railway Market. Fresh, seasonal dishes and homemade delights from a range of local suppliers are served with a backdrop of live music. Home to the Elgin Valley Market, Peregrine Farm Stall is a popular foodie heaven. There are around 30 stalls selling fresh produce, food, arts and craft.
Elgin Railway Market
As we arrived at the Elgin Railway Market, this charming place reminded us of some of the boutique farmers' markets in Stellenbosch and the Helderberg area. Modern art sculptures were scattered throughout the property, giving it an organic artsy vibe. The impressive Elgin Railway Market building has a decided steam punk, art deco feel. The over-sized metal fans, the hold-over concrete tapered columns of a bygone era, and the carefully crafted box gutters, all ooze with industrial character.
The Elgin Railway Market has so much to offer its visitors. Here's a sampling of the some of the more interesting food concessions at the market:
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- Vegan Salads
- Tasty Biltong (South African dried meats)
- Artisanal Gin
- Handmade Chocolate
- Fragrant Curries
- Exotic Dim Sum
One of the biggest attractions at the market is the arrival of the Ceres Rail Company steam locomotive. The Market has a very convenient observation deck just above the loft area. But, in our opinion, the best way to see this exciting event is to go out on the old railway platform. There's nothing like seeing the power and brilliant engineering of a full-sized locomotive up close and personal!
Peregrine Farm Stall
The name of farm stall just doesn't do it justice! Peregrine's is part farm stall, part folk art museum, part bakery, and part cafe restaurant. Peregrine's is a must-see road-side boutique stop! They are famous for their unique taste in all things, including pop-up vendors. We took advantage of the opportunity to visit all of these quirky stores.
Here are some of the homemade pies that Peregrine is famous for:
- Melktert
- Pecan
- Quiches
- Venison
- Free-Range Chicken/Chicken & Mushroom
- Spinach & Feta Vegetarian
- Pepper Steak
- Cornish Lentil
Outdoor Activities and Nature
Elgin is also a paradise for nature lovers. Elgin has also become increasingly popular among mountain bikers seeking adventure off the beaten path. There is an extensive network of well-maintained trails, catering to riders of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned experts. The terrain varies from smooth, flowing singletracks to challenging technical descents and rocky climbs.
Cape Canopy Tour
If you’re looking for even more of a thrill, Cape Canopy Tours in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve offers an exhilarating and eco-conscious adventure like no other. This thrilling canopy tour takes you through a network of zip lines, cliffside platforms and a swaying wooden bridge suspended high above the valley floor. Zip-lining has become a thing recently and the Cape Canopy Tour located in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve is quite spectacular.
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Stony Point Nature Reserve
Boulders Beach near Cape Town might be the go to destination to see penguins in South Africa. Yet Stony Point Nature Reserve located in the coastal town of Betty’s Bay is equally amazing, just without the large crowds. It is in fact home to one of the largest colonies of African penguins in the world.
Accommodation in Elgin
When it comes to accommodation in Elgin, you’re spoilt for choice. One of my favorite options in the valley has to be South Hill Vineyards. The farm offers a 12-sleeper villa with a private pool and garden. However, it’s the quaint converted pumphouse cottage that, for me, holds the most appeal. This secluded and romantic one-bedroom cottage is set away from the main restaurant and wine-tasting area. There is a small kitchenette, a pretty lounge with a pot belly fireplace, a private courtyard with wood-fired hot tub and braai (BBQ) facilities.
Their cottages were nestled right next to the vines and apple trees. It was an easy place to stay on site, as their restaurant was just steps away with delicious breakfast offerings. Our room had French doors overlooking the vineyard, a large tub, rain shower, and kitchenette. It was the perfect mix of chic and cozy, and perfect for a romantic getaway.
Elgin and South Hill Vineyards are also part of the Cape Country Routes, which allow visitors to South Africa to discover its hidden gems through a series of unique road trips. Along the way are a selection of accommodation options that are owner-run and hold a charming appeal.
Additional Attractions
If you love art and wine, this is the perfect place. South Hill Cool Climate Vineyards is not only an award-winning winery.
Everson’s is one of the Cape’s most popular distillers of cider. Sipping on local apple cider at Everson’s.
Everson’s Distillery Tour
The distillery is home of two of the largest pot stills in the Southern Hemisphere and if you have enough time to spare, you can admire them during a two hour tour through the distillery. The tour also includes an interactive brandy tasting along the whole production process, from the base wine to the eau de vie. The tour will end with a chocolate and brandy tasting which is something you will not want to miss, right?
Elgin Overview
Here's a summary of key facts about Elgin:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Overberg region, South Africa, about an hour from Cape Town |
| Climate | Coolest climate wine growing region in South Africa |
| Main Industries | Fruit growing (apples, pears), wine production |
| Key Wine Varietals | Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay |
| Main Town | Grabouw |
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