If this was the 1700s, I may have been labelled a witch and burned at the stake because I’m obsessed with the moon, writes Cape {town} Etc’s Lynn Cupido.
Full moon hikes, picnics, beach meanders – you name it, I’ll be there staring at the moon and snapping away. The best part? Capetonians love staring at the moon too and enjoying a good full moon hike every once in a while.
Speaking about love, Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and if you’re still looking for something to help you celebrate this love-fuelled day, Dirtopia is offering two opportunities in the Stellenbosch Winelands.
They’re currently offering a fun Trail Run in the morning and a short hike (the moon will be high in the sky!), along with a delicious picnic & wine that same evening.
Circle the date: Sunday, 13 February!
The Love Trail Run is the second in the 2022 Sportsman’s Warehouse series of monthly trail runs in the Simonsberg wine region. From early morning, trail runners will be welcomed at the gorgeous, French inspired L’Avenir Wine Estate on the R44 near Stellenbosch with the February event offering two routes: a 6km and 11km.
Not only are there beautiful gardens at the start-finish, but participants will be treated to views of the mountains while running through orchards, vineyards and of course, Dirtopia’s signature singletrack trails. This is a fast course with the long route also using the terrain of the neighbouring farm of Nooitgedacht in a forest.
Registration starts from 6.30am next to the wine cellar; with the long route starting 7.30am and the short route 7.45am with a R140 entry fee for the 6km and 11km R170, while kids under 18 cost R60 online.
The refreshment station on both routes will have Powerade, fruit and cold water with a cup of Coke at the finish line for all! A new 2022 medal will be handed over to each one crossing the finish line arch. Stay for the prize giving and lucky draw around 9.30am and stand a chance to win some great product prizes from the sponsor FALKE & vouchers from Sportsman’s Warehouse and L’Avenir Wine!
Relax on the lawns at the dam after the event and perhaps sip some of the Estate’s Cap Classique. How about a romantic cheese platter shared with someone special? Ultimate Performance Therapy will be at the finish for a relaxing massage, and bookings are also taken in advance. Coffee, croissants & muffins will be available from early morning before the start as well.
Whether you are single or in a relationship – everybody is welcome, and participants are encouraged to wear red for this Trail Run. You could win a prize for best dressed, in the name of LOVE.
Rent or buy an Amarider Trail Tag permanent (red) Trail Tag or rent one for R20 for the day. For further info mail [email protected] or call 078 3433572 or visit the website at www.dirtopia.co.za
On Valentine’s Eve that Sunday night, the trail hours from Dirtopia Trail Centre on Muratie wine estate will be extended for a romantic Sunset to Full Moon Hike. This trail is a circular 3.5km in total and only about 2km to the look-out point where you’ll be poured a glass of Muratie’s Lady Alice MCC! The wine station will also have white and red wine for sale per bottle or per glass.
Book a cheese & charcuterie platter in advance if you don’t feel like packing and carrying your own snacks to the top. Couples, families and friends can relax with views of the sun setting over Table Mountain and the full moon rising over Simonsberg.
A coffee station at the Trail Centre when hikers return between 8pm and 8:30. Book online for the hike and platter: www.dirtpass.co.za
Is there any better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day?
Also read:
Picture: Supplied