The little village of Grabouw lies in the Elgin Valley, sandwiched between the Groenland and Kogelberg mountains and is the commercial centre for apples ± 65% of South Africa's export apples are produced here. Only an hour's drive from Cape Town brings one over the Hottentots-Holland mountains into the fertile Elgin Valley, a magical stretch of forest, orchards, vineyards and greenery renowned not only for its fruit but also for its wine.
Known by the locals as Elgin-Grabouw because the railway station, called Elgin, was better known than the town, Grabouw, the town is named after the Grabow village in Germany. It borders on the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve formed to protect the surrounding area, which is home to over 1600 plant species. Nature-lovers and hikers are attracted to this part of the world because of the number of hiking and mountain bike trails and the annual Elgin Festival is very popular, drawing visitors to sample its flowers, fruit, wines and local products.
Grabouw, located in the Elgin Valley of the Western Cape, is known for its scenic beauty, apple orchards, and outdoor activities.
Here are five must-see attractions in and around Grabouw:
Elgin Valley Wine Route: The Elgin Valley is renowned for its cool-climate wines. Touring the wine route allows you to visit several excellent wineries such as Paul Cluver, Oak Valley, and South Hill, where you can enjoy wine tastings, cellar tours, and picturesque vineyard views.
Cape Canopy Tour: Located in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve, this adventure experience involves zip-lining through the rugged mountains and valleys. It's an exhilarating way to take in the stunning scenery and natural beauty of the region.
Eikenhof Dam: A serene spot perfect for picnicking, fishing, and kayaking. The dam is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Peregrine Farm Stall: A popular stop for locals and travelers alike, Peregrine Farm Stall offers delicious homemade pies, fresh produce, artisanal products, and a lovely café. It's an ideal place to sample local flavors and enjoy a relaxed meal.
Trail Running and Mountain Biking: The Grabouw area boasts a variety of trails suitable for trail running and mountain biking. The Lebanon MTB Trails and Oak Valley MTB Trails offer routes for all skill levels, taking you through scenic forests, vineyards, and fynbos landscapes.
These attractions highlight the natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and local charm of Grabouw, making it a great destination for visitors looking to explore the Western Cape.