On the 4th of April 2008, to coincide with the Absa Cape Epic mountain bike event which overnighted
on the Estate, proprietor Anthony Rawbone-Viljoen was proud to announce the launch of The Oak Valley Mountain Biking
Experience in his welcome address to the organisers and the top 1200 international bikers from different countries
around the world.
Esatblished by Peter Visser, the Oak Valley winemaker, who is himself a keen mountain biker, the trail covers
a total of 21 kms with one or two hills that are definitely fodder for 'the mountain goats'. Close to half the
distance is single track biking, with bridges over farm fences and streams, making for a highly enjoyable ride.
The biking trail takes the rider through beautiful natural scenery, including forests of ancient oak trees, through
vineyards, through apple and pear orchards and across sub-clover/grass pastures, set against the stunning backdrop of
the protected fynbos on the slopes of the Groenlandberg Mountain. The fee is R20 per participant, payable at the security
office located at the entrance gate to the Estate.
The trail has been described by expert mountain bikers as the best of its kind in the Western Cape.
Oak Valley is a founder member of the
Green Mountain Eco Route
which was formed to promote and protect the extraordinary bio-diversity of the Elgin Valley and its neighbouring regions.
Oak Valley has committed its mountainside to conservation in a joint venture with adjoining farms.
The Green Mountain Eco Route enables visitors
to experience the bio-diversity first hand on guided trails, either by 4 x 4's, quadbikes, mountain bikes or walking
trails.
View the Green Mountain website
and to find out how to enjoy the various activities on offer.
The Elgin Valley Wine Guild has been formed to promote the wines of the Elgin Valley
and to provide information about the various wine estates and their wines. An
information centre will be opened in the near future and visitors will be able to
find out about Elgin from a central point.
The Elgin Valley Wine Guild has a newly developed website
with links to all existing wineries and tasting rooms.
Tri Active, based in the Elgin Valley, is a tour operator as well as an events
management company and offers a professional service in Corporate Events,
Business and Leisure Travel.
Working alongside Oak Valley, and as a member of the Green Mountain
Eco Route, Tri Active offers a variety of tours and activities that incorporate
the magnificent estate, giving the opportunity to members of the public to enjoy
a visit to this private piece of paradise. 4x4, quad bike and mountain biking tours
as well as nature walks are arranged with an insight into the wine, fruit, flower
and livestock businesses on the farm.
Tri Active has a Conference and Adventure centre with Tented Lodge, adjoining
Oak Valley Estate for those that want to enjoy the hospitality of Elgin Valley
for an overnight stay.
Situated at the Peregrine Farm Stall complex adjoining the N2, opposite the turn-off to Elgin/Grabouw,
the Elgin valley Tourism office is conveniently located to offer visitors a broad range of information on
activities available within the Elgin Valley, such as wine tastings, food, accommodation, general activities,
eco-tourism, sites to visit ect. For further information email
info@elginvalley.co.za or see
www.elginvalley.co.za
