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The programme includes experiences across Stellenbosch and the Bottelary Hills, from wine tastings and outdoor recreation to regenerative farming demonstrations and activities supporting conservation initiatives.

The Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy (BHRC), established in 1992, works to protect approximately 1,500 hectares of critically endangered Renosterveld. The area combines natural habitats with working farms, vineyards and outdoor recreation.

Several participating estates are WWF Conservation Champions, including Hartenberg, Mooiplaas, Zevenwacht, Neethlingshof, De Morgenzon and Koopmanskloof. Their conservation work forms part of broader efforts to protect habitats and biodiversity across the Winelands.

Wine tours and outdoor experiences

The programme features several activities connecting visitors with the region's wine and agricultural landscapes.

The Bottelary Hills 4x4 Wine Adventure takes place on 23 and 26 October, with a guided off-road journey aboard a vintage military truck. The experience visits Kaapzicht, Mooiplaas and Zevenwacht for wine tastings and insights into farming and conservation. Tickets cost R1,295 per person, with places limited to 12 guests.

A guided walk through the Devon Valley's vineyards, orchards and olive groves takes place on 24 October. The R285 experience includes refreshments and a glass of bubbly at JC Le Roux, with proceeds supporting Froggies Aftercare NPO.

At Hartenberg Estate, Go Beyond the Garden Gate on 29 October explores regenerative farming through a guided tractor tour. The experience covers livestock, cover crops, soil health and biodiversity. It costs R595 per person and includes a Dexter beef burger and a glass of Sacred Soil wine.

Activities supporting conservation

The Jordan Run & Ride for Renosterveld takes place at Jordan Wine Estate on Sunday, 25 October, supporting BHRC. Participants can choose between a 34km cycle starting at 7.30am for R380 per person and a 6km fun run starting at 8.30am for R220. Entries are limited to 100 participants per event.

The programme also includes the Discover Renosterveld Conservation Nursery Open Day, where visitors can learn about indigenous and threatened plants used in habitat restoration. The supplied event information does not specify a date or ticket price.

Magic Mindful Photography, led by photographer and mindfulness facilitator Manie van der Hoven, takes place at De Morgenzon on 24 and 28 October and 1 November. The two-hour sessions combine photography, mindfulness and expressive writing.

Trail running and guided hikes

The Trailfun Long-Distance Garden Town Vineyard Run takes place on Saturday, 31 October, starting at Neethlingshof. Runners can choose from 7km, 16km, 25km and 37km routes through vineyards and trails in the Bottelary Hills. Each entrant receives a commemorative medal and limited-edition socks featuring this year's Renosterveld flower.

The programme concludes on 1 November with the Sunset Bottelary Hills Hike, a guided walk through a 68-hectare private nature reserve to the highest point of the Bottelary Hills, at 476m above sea level. The route offers views towards Table Mountain, False Bay and the Stellenbosch mountains. Tickets cost R250 per person and include a bottle of Koopmanskloof wine.

Visitors can also explore the Greater Simonsberg Conservancy through Delheim's Trail & Taste experience. Visitors can arrive between 9am and 3pm for a self-guided 2.5km or 5km nature walk on the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain, followed by a tasting of five Delheim wines. The estate covers 375 hectares and is home to more than 120 indigenous plant species, 50 bird species and wildlife including caracal, Cape fox and Cape leopard. Delheim is a founding member of the Greater Simonsberg Conservancy and a WWF Conservation Champion. The experience costs R180 per person, and bookings are essential.

Programme and bookings

Garden Town Stellenbosch runs from 23 October to 1 November 2026. Activities range from wine tastings and guided walks to trail running and conservation experiences. Some events have limited capacity, so visitors should check availability and booking requirements before attending.

For programme details, visit the Garden Town Stellenbosch programme.

For the Jordan Run & Ride for Renosterveld, visit the booking page.

For the Trailfun Long-Distance Vineyard Run, visit the entries page.

For Delheim's Trail & Taste, visit the estate's website.