Cherry picking season offers yet another glorious reason to explore a few scenic gems in and around Cape Town. And if you’re keen on escaping the bustling city and embracing ultimate tranquillity, then your next adventure awaits.
Here are a few places to add your list this December:
Nestled in the unspoiled mountain country about 30km’s from Ceres lies this breathtaking fruit farm that boasts cherries, pears and apples. Explore the picturesque orchards while you forage for the best cherries, or have a picnic under the cool shade of a pine tree.
You pay an entrance fee per person and receive a container – indicating what a 1kg more or less looks like, which you are welcome to fill to the brim with delicious ruby-tinged or sunkissed yellow cherries.
Trading hours: 08:30am – 4:15pm (daily)
Season duration: subject to fruit available
Cost: Entrance: R30pp (10 years +)
R15pp (under 10 years)
Free (under 5 years)
Price per kg: R70
Location: Klondyke Farm, Bo-Swaarmoed, Ceres
Picturesque Chart Farm is situated in the heart of the Southern Suburbs near Wynberg Park, and offers a farm-style retreat from the bustling city.
This historic farm currently has over 12 hectares of arable land where you will find a beautiful English style rose garden, lush grape vines, lemon trees, a farmstall for a quick nibble, coffee shop, and horse riding with panoramic views extending all the way to False Bay.
View the farm fresh calendar here.
Farmstall trading hours: Summer time (Oct to May)
9am – 4.30pm
Location: Klaassens Rd, Wynberg Park, Cape Town
Even though Hillcrest Berry Orchards doesn’t open their orchards to the public because damage to the new shoots could affect future crops, it’s still worth adding to your list of adventures.
With blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, and tayberries available for purchase, you’ll have a hoot of a time snacking on the freshest fruit this summer.
Location: R310, Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch
A popular fruit-picking farm in Cape Town, Polkadraai Strawberry Farm offers a tranquil experience of searching for the best strawberries to take home.
And if you’re looking for a family-fun activity, you’ll be glad to know that tractor rides, pony rides, mini golf, and face painting are some of the things that can be done on your great escape.
Trading hours: September to January daily, 9am – 4.00pm
Closed Christmas Day
*Bad weather conditions may affect the availability of strawberry picking.
Have a look at the prices here.
Location: Cnr. Vlaeberg & Polkadraai Rd. Stellenbosch
If you’re up for hitting the long road and witnessing all that George has to offer, then make sure to stop and smell the berries at Redberry Farm. This ideal location is perfect for fun-seeking families and outdoor enthusiasts.
It includes picking your own strawberries, exploring the largest permanent hedge maze in the Southern Hemisphere, a Tea Garden and Farm Stall, the Red Shed Coffee & Berry Bar, a miniature train ride on the Redberry Express, a large outdoor playground, pony rides and so much more!
Trading hours: Monday – Saturday 9am – 4pm
Closed on Sundays, Christmas Day and Good Friday.
Location: Geelhoutboom Road (off the R404), Blanco, George
Picture: Pixabay