Grabouw, founded in 1856, lies in the fertile Elgin Valley, the main apple-growing region of South Africa. The other main products grown in the region are fresh flowers and grapes, which also make for beautiful scenery.
Adventure And Sport
Hottentots-Holland Hiking Trail: The Hottentots-Holland Hiking Trail starts in a forest and ends in Franschhoek.
Steenbras Dam: The dam is the main water supply for the Cape Metropole and was built in 1921. Many hiking, walking and mountain-biking trails traverse the lovely area.
Cuisine
Wine Route: The wine route includes an interesting visit to Pale Moon Apple Wine Farm and Paul Cluver Wines.
Windermere Estate: The estate was established in 1927 and makes cider from freshly pressed apples. Visitors can taste the cider in the old farm stable.
Fauna And Flora
Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve: The reserve has some lovely scenery and the hiking trail was adapted for the visually impaired.
Scenic views: Roads and passes carved through the mountains have made the area accessible to visitors and offer lovely views of the surrounding countryside. The nearby passes include Sir Lowry’s Pass, Viljoen’s Pass and Houwhoek Pass.
History And Architecture
Elgin Apple Museum: The museum is dedicated to the fruit that has made this valley famous. It is one of only two such museums in the world.
Other Attractions
Elgin Festival: The festival is held annually in November and features many floral arrangements, craft markets and food and wine displays.
