Things to Do in De Kelders

Birkenhead, the first wine and brewing estate in South Africa, proudly runs a small but growing microbrewery, winery and vineyards. Well worth a visit, not only for beer and wine fanatics, but for anyone keen to spend time at their beautiful country estate beneath the Klein Rivier Mountains. Taste their exceptional beer at the Birkenhead Brewery and grab a meal at the restaurant and pub. And don't miss visiting the winery to tasting their Walker Bay Vineyards wines. www.birkenhead.co.za

Situated in the heart of the Overberg, the quaint village of Stanford is just half an hour outside of Hermanus and an hour and a half from Cape Town.Stanford Gallery exhibits the work of latter day South African artists of the past few decades, as well as prominent contemporary artists and notable emerging artists. Mosey around and you might find an etching by Pippa Skotness, a drawing by Pieter van der Westhuizen or a lyrical landscape by Joshua Miles.The Overberg has a wealth of creative talent and Stanford Gallery is committed to promoting local artists whose work is fast establishing a reputation in this region.The gallery has a beautifully appointed studio, which opens onto the village green.  Regular workshops explore a variety of mediums from painting and drawing to printmaking. The studio is also available to art societies and groups who would like to make use of it.Need to know? Gallery hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 8am till 5pm.

Climb aboard Platanna for a ‘Wind in the Willows’ river adventure in Stanford. Named for the resident frog, Platanna is a 20-foot (6 m) ex fishing boat that hosts lazy river cruises down the Klein River from the Victorian village of Stanford. She has the capacity to carry up to twelve passengers for a gentle meander past the village. The cruise offers some great bird watching and superb mountain views. You might even spot terrapins or an otter. Pack your own picnic or contact Tim and trusty crew will provide it all for you. Sunset champagne cruises are exquisite! 073 318 5078 cruise@platanna.com

The Blue Flag Grotto Beach is one of the most striking South African beaches with its rolling waves and mountainous backdrop. Enjoyed by locals, visitors and whales, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, beach games and long romantic walks at sunset.Feeling fit and adventurous? Walk 18 kilometres along the unspoilt and exquisite Walker Bay coastline from Grotto Beach to the seaside hamlet of De Kelders.At Grotto Beach you will never have to share your towel with the person sitting next to you on the soft white sand. You will probably return again and again to this relaxing haven!

Cool sea breezes and a mountainous microclimate ensure that the grapes ripen slowly which contributes to the smooth quality of the wine. Stanford Hills Winery produces an award winning Pinotage under the label of Jacksons Pinotage. The last three vintages have all been awarded four stars in the John Platter guide. Grapes are hand picked and selected, to ensure that only the best quality grapes are included in the final product. Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay vines were planted, and are expected to produce in 2008.

Rowweklip Beach is a tiny private beach nestled between Grotto Beach and Voelklip Beach. From the Rowweklip bench you can see the sun rise and set. It's a magical place.

Known for their outstanding year round standards, Hermanus Golf Club is a popular choice for golfing enthusiasts from Cape Town, the rest of South Africa and international visitors.This classic country course underwent a recent extensive refurbishment with the addition of nine superb new holes, taking golfing in Hermanus to new levels.The gorgeous sea views, mountainous surroundings, charming hospitality and former tradition remain. What was considered a gentle layout has been replaced with modern classically designed holes, adding a dynamic visual and challenging aspect to the course. Peter Matkovich, South Africa’s foremost golf course architect, incorporated the scenic environment to maximum potential. The new definition and shape given to the holes as well as the water and rock features are particularly striking.Considerably lengthened with superlative new greens and bunkering, and dedicated and professional management, Hermanus Golf Club presents an incredible challenge and experience.

The Old Harbour Gallery focuses on local South African Artists. Owner, Margaret Fourie has a magnificent collection of old masters as well as promising contemporary artists works for the discerning art lover. Here you will find quality art with investment potential.

The sleepy little coastal town of Hermanus hides a treasure trove of quality gemstones and pearls, sterling silver and a dash of gold. All handcrafted pieces are made in Franschhoek, South Africa.Need to know? Opening hours: Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm; Sunday, 10am - 5pm ; Saturday, closed.

Situated in the Kleinrivier Mountains on the northern side of Hermanus, Fernkloof Nature Reserve incorporates mountain fynbos as well as a pocket of evergreen forest. A 60 kilometre network of trails provides the opportunity for people to go out and enjoy some exercise and fresh air. These trails offer stunning panoramic views of Walker Bay, the Hemel en Aarde Valley and Maanskynbaai.The reserve is a haven of biodiversity with 1474 species of plants recorded. Parts of the coastal area including the Cliff Path Nature Area, the Mossel River valley and the area from De Mond to Kettle Point, including the mouth of the Vogelgat River and part of the Klein River lagoon have recently been incorporated. This means that the coastal area with its unique fynbos, the mountain fynbos as well as the sensitive lagoon area is now linked.Keep your eyes open to spot grey rhebok, Cape grysbok, klipspringer, baboon, mongoose and dassie. Birds that you are most likely to see are Cape sugar birds, sunbirds, rock thrush and rock jumpers. Raptors include the jackal buzzard and black eagle. You can also spot seed and insect-eating species such as Rameron pigeons, canaries, flycatchers and white-eyes in the patches of forest alongside streams.Need to know? Fernkloof Nature Reserve is open from 7am to 7pm.

The Bouchard Finlayson Boutique Winery remains a leader in producing world class Pinot noir wines from South Africa. Growing on the slopes of Galpin Peak in the Walker Bay region, with Hermanus being the nearest town, repeated vintages of this path-blazing wine continue to reflect a true celebration of Pinot-crafting, endorsing the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley (Heaven and Earth) as a jewel in the terroir search for excellence with this illusive grape. Peter Finlayson was the first modern day winemaker in this valley. With his accumulated wine making knowledge he has been instrumental in the primary effort of putting the Walker Bay wine region on the map. Apart from their Pinot noir, they produce outstanding Sauvignon blanc, Chardonnays, a zesty, fresh white blend (Blanc de Mer) and an Italian, French red blend (Hannibal).Visit the estate for a wine tasting experience in their old world cellar and take a wander around the winery bragging exceptional views of both valley and ocean.Need to know? Tasting Room Hours: Mon - Fri 09:30 - 17:00, Sat: 09:30 - 12:30, closed Sundays and public holidays.AwardsGalpin Peak Pinot Noir 2008 - Decanter South African Pinot Noir trophy 2009Galpin Peak Pinot Noir 2007 - 91 points Wine Spectator Jan 2009Galpin Peak Pinot Noir 2007 - Class Winner at Winemakers' Choice Diamond awards 2008Tête de Cuvée 2006 Galpin Peak Pinot Noir - Trophy Winner at Old Mutual Trophy Awards 2008Tête de Cuvée 2005 Galpin Peak Pinot Noir - 'Wine of the Year' John Platter 2008Tête de Cuvée 2005 Galpin Peak Pinot Noir - 5 stars John Platter 2008Hannibal 2006 - Gold Medal (class winner) at Michelangelo International Wine Awards 2008

The Raka brand was named after Piet Dreyer's black fishing vessel. Piet's first love has always been the sea. For some 36 years he braved the storms and challenges of the coast, ever in search of the best catch. It is with this same passion that the Dreyer family now pursue the art of winemaking. With the rich blessing of earth and elements, the help of a dedicated workforce, the enthusiasm of winemaker Josef Dreyer and the advantages of a modern gravity flow cellar, Piet Dreyer produces his award-winning Raka wines. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 16:30 and Saturday 10:00 - 15:00 December to January. Out of season please phone ahead.

Tee off on one of the top golf courses in the Western Cape. Arabella is a classic parkland course with spectacular views across the Bot River Lagoon and the Kogelberg Mountain Range. It is also home to the annual Nelson Mandela Invitational Tournament. The Arabella Golf Course in South Africa is ranked by Compleat Golfer magazine as the number one golf course in the Western Cape. It is also featured in Golf Digest’s USA’s Top 60 courses outside of America in 2007. A round of golf here is truly an exceptional experience.

Harbour Road Village offers interesting shops including pottery, bric-a-brac, shabby chic furniture and clothing, restaurants and a view of the sea.

The incredibly scenic Harold Porter Botanical Garden is situated between the coast and the mountainside. The garden is renowned for its waterfalls, amber pools, deep gorges and abundant birdlife. Deep in the heart of the fynbos region, it is one of the best places to explore coastal fynbos. And its vast – there are 10 hectares of cultivated fynbos as well as 190 hectares of natural fynbos! Keen hikers should lace up their boots and hit the Leopard Kloof Trail. The 3 km round trip leads through fern forests and up to a waterfall. You’ll need to get a permit and pay a key deposit. Need to know? Opens at 08:00, closes at 16:30 on weekdays and at 17:00 on weekends and public holidays. The parking area closes at 18:00 in winter and 19:00 in summer. Keen gardeners can purchase plants from the indigenous plant nursery.

Take a trip back in time at a South African National Cultural Treasure, the Genadendal Mission Museum. See the country's oldest pipe organ, the oldest fire engine, household implements, books, tools, and musical instruments, and a brilliant example of an original ox wagon. Displays examine the life of Moravian Missionaries in the Cape during the 18th and 19th centuries. Open Monday to Thursday 09:00 – 13:00, 14:00 – 17:00, Friday 09:00 – 15:30, Saturday 10:00 – 02:00 +27 (0) 28 251 8220

Visit the Genadendal Pottery Studio and purchase an unusual ceramic piece or hand-painted tableware. This project of the Genadendal Mission Museum is located on the Moravian Church Square behind the Information Bureau. Open Monday to Friday 08:30 – 16:00 and Saturday 10:00 – 14:00. +27 (0) 28 251 8291

Genadendal Handweavers started as a job-creation project initiated by The Kraal Gallery, but partnered by the Department of Economic Development, Rotary International, private family trusts and the community. Their mantra is ‘weaving broadens horizons’, evident in the vibrant hues and diverse range of beautifully woven products. The business employs locally trained women to create innovative and desirable items and works of art. 082 433 3540 www.thekraalgallery.com

Paul Cluver Forest Amphitheatre is one of the most unique and awe inspiring settings for performances in the Overberg. A towering Eucalyptus forest circles the intimate 600 seater-arena which has been hewn from farm timber in its entirety. Performances are specifically chosen to match the natural acoustics of the venue.Pack a picnic basket, purchase estate wine and come enjoy an evening of entertainment with great stars, under the stars!Only 45 minutes drive from Cape Town International.Need to know? Blankets, cushions and warm jackets are recommended. Seats are unreserved on a first come, first served basis. Limited table bookings available at an additional cost. (For table bookings call 021 8440605).

Every Saturday morning sees the sleepy village of Napier come alive as the industrious local residents disply their wares at the local market. Goods for sale include jams and reserves, olive products, ceramics, home made ice cream, locally produced cheeses, clothing and much more.