Focus on Grabouw, Western Cape, South Africa

Grabouw is the commercial centre for what is the largest single export fruit producing area in Southern Africa. The town was created on the farm Grietjiesgat acquired in 1856 by Willem Langschmidt, who named the place after Grabau, the village of his birth in Germany.

Situated in the Elgin valley, the area also known for its forestry and is the starting point of the Hottentots Holland Hiking Trail which ends in Franschhoek. Other attractions include the Steenbras Dam, Palmiet Pumped Storage Scheme, Palmiet Hiking Trail and the Four Passes Fruit Route.

Located on the banks of the Palmiet River and in the mountains, Grabouw has become a commuter town for many seeking the country life. Grabouw is a great destination for those wishing to take a day drive out of Cape Town.

The Elgin Valley is home to a diverse farming community. Deciduous fruit, vineyards, cut flowers and fynbos are all farmed on these beautiful lands.

The Elgin Valley borders the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, a protected area of magnificent fynbos. More than 1600 plant species occur here, of which 150 are endemic.

The world's first biodiversity wine route offers scenic beauty, natural diversity of terroir and a wide range of wine styles along a route that goes around the Groenland Mountain (approximately 75 km), rambling through the 34,000 ha Groenlandberg Conservancy, home to the Green Mountain Eco Route.

Whether you want to crank uphill on your mountain bike, hike through acres of fynbos, book a guided flower or birding tour, experience a unique wine-tasting with the winemakers, or enjoy meals made from locally-grown produce, the Green Mountain Eco Route has something for everyone.

People from all over the world visit the region to experience the wonder of our local gardens filled with multitudes of remarkable flowers. This area´s incredible diversity is particularly showcased during the Open Gardens weekends.

A variety of mountain bike races, half and full marathons, fun runs and walks are hosted in the Elgin Valley throughout the year.
In the heart of a towering eucalyptus forest, the outdoor amphitheatre provides a unique natural venue for a variety of performances ranging from revues to classic and contemporary musicals and theatre.