4 exciting things to do in the Boland

The Boland in the Western Cape is the perfect region for some exploring. Centred around the Boland mountains and towns such as Worcester, Robertson and Paarl, the region has lots to offer.

Here are just some of the things you can do when you visit.

Check out the succulent botanical garden in Worcester 

Set against the backdrop of soaring mountains lies the Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden, the only truly succulent botanical garden in the southern hemisphere and on the African continent. The garden is home to over 400 indigenous plants from the arid and semi-arid regions of southern Africa, as well as 70 different bird species and many small mammals.

Originally established in 1921 near Matjiesfontein, the garden was moved to Worcester in 1945 so that more visitors could enjoy its beauty. While the garden is enjoyed all year round, spring is the best time for you to visit when thousands of annuals and vivid vygies start flowering.   

Try the local gin 

Nestled between the Breede River and Hex River valleys, you will find Six Dogs Distillery that produces three gins - Six Dogs Karoo, Six Dogs Blue and Six Dogs Pinotage Stained.

While all three gins are infused with hand-picked botanicals from the makers’ farm and the surrounding areas, the pinotage blend celebrates a truly South African cultivar – pinotage grapes – and is the pioneer of pinotage-infused gin. As the distillery is located near Worcester, where many estates produce South Africa’s signature grape variety, the grapes of the 2020 vintage come from a neighbouring wine farmer.

Learn more about making olive oil 

Olive estate Rio Largo produces high quality, proudly South African olive oils in the scenic Scherpenheuwel valley between Worcester and Robertson. Owners Nick and Brenda Wilkinson bought the estate in 2010 and, thanks to their passion and expertise, have produced award-winning olive oil since acquisition.

Find out for yourself how age-old practices, modern technology and the ideal South African terroir produce the perfect, proudly South African product. 

Take a tractor trip 

Visit the Protea Farm, located outside of Montague, for its legendary tractor trips, potjiekos and scenic splendour. Hop on board a tractor that meanders up the Langeberg mountain, past proteas that grow in abundance and take in the sweeping views of the Koo and Robertson valleys as you near the top. The tractor trips have been going since 1985 so rest assured that you’re in safe hands.

Combine the tractor trip with some delicious potjiekos and you’re in for a treat. The farm itself, full of apple and pear orchards, is so scenic that you may not want to leave. Luckily, the farm offers four self-catering cottages to choose from so that you can take in nature a while longer. Don’t forget to pack your sports and swimming gear; the farm is perfect for adventure lovers who want to go hiking, mountain biking or swimming in the lake.

 
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