Slackpacking in the Cape Winelands

Stride Through Vineyards: Cape Winelands Slackpacking Adventures

Imagine a slackpacking trip where your recovery drink isn’t a rehydrate but a delicious Sauvignon Blanc. Think the  Cape Winelands. Surrounded by fynbos covered mountains, trails criss-cross through vineyards, taking in exquisite wine estates; a wine tasting here and gourmet picnic there, a foray through a section of pristine fynbos to count flowers (there are over 9000 flowering plants in the Western Cape). It’s hard to imagine a more alluring slack packing idea.

Areas around Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl, Wellington, Tulbagh and Robertson offer plenty of opportunities to combine walking with exceptional food and a range of  accommodation on boutique wine farms or historic estates with a traditional Cape Dutch vibe.

And if you’re looking for something a little more serious, the kind of trail where doing a wine tasting beforehand would be irresponsible, you will be spoilt for choice. The Cape mountain ranges are serious hiking country. Trails can involve steep climbs, hot exposed sections and rough terrain. Some routes are better suited to experienced hikers, while others are gentle enough for a relaxed day out.

Spring can bring wonderful displays of flowers especially all the beautiful Cape bulbs, while autumn has its own charm as the vineyards change colour. Winter days can be clear and perfect, but do pack that rain jacket. Summer, meanwhile, can be very hot so your slackpacking operator might suggest an outrageous starting time. Trust us…go with it…and enjoy the sunrise from the vineyards.