Study at Stellenbosch University and you’ll become well versed in the usual spots pretty quickly – the Botanical Garden, the trail behind the Danie Craven rugby stadium leading to Ertjieskloof Dam, the Rooiplein. But if you’re one for leaving the crowds behind, there are other spots and sights just a little ways further, and they’re well worth exploring, too.
To get to some of these lesser-known spots, we called in the experts, accepting the help of the Stellenbosch Adventure Shop, which kindly supplied us with a guide and some bicycles for a 20km cycle to Boschendal. Less experienced or fit cyclists can opt for an e-bike, turning the 20km slog into a don’t-break-a-sweat breeze.
Our cycle began in the town centre, before heading up into Idas Valley. Within 10 minutes we were cycling along quiet country roads and soon after, on quiet trails that would be the envy of many towns around the world. Our route took in some truly beautiful paths, many of which are maintained by the Stellenbosch Trail Fund. There was plenty of shade, too, so we were in no danger of overheating.
There were also plenty of photo opportunities – views of dams, quiet bridge crossings, jeep track and single track – before we cruised into the Banhoek Conservancy in Kylemore.
The conservancy is the pride of many a local, and people speak with fondness for their little gem that draws tourists and locals alike to its trails. It isn’t hard to see why: the air is fresh, the sky is blue – and it felt like we had the place to ourselves.
We were impressed by the quality of the cycling trails. There were some standard paths, some switchbacks, a few challenging rocky sections, a river crossing.
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