Walking and Cycling Trails
Zevenwacht is a member of the Bottelary Hills Conservancy with approximately 84 hectares of the farm allocated to the conservancy. We are actively involved in efforts to preserve our natural floral heritage known as Renosterveld, for the enjoyment of future generations. The Renosterveld family forms part of the world-famous Cape Floral Kingdom. While not as well-known as Fynbos, it is often mistaken for it. One of the main differences between Renosterveld and Fynbos is the fact that Renosterveld grows on nutrient-rich soils, while Fynbos is found on higher ground, inhabiting areas with little nutrients. The flowers of this veld type are truly spectacular and form part of the Capes amazing variety of bulbs and wildflowers. The protected conservation area has a host of small mammals and bird life. Game such as caracal, grysbok, grey duiker, porcupine, bat-eared foxes, Cape foxes, and otters still roam naturally in the Bottelary Hills. Many of these animal species remain dependant on the existence of Renosterveld habitat.
We are one of the few private farms open to outdoor visitors for walking, running and cycling. We offer our community the privilege of enjoying the beauty of the wine farm and request that you do so responsibly.
All cyclists, walkers, hikers and runners require a permit to enter the Estate and make use of the designated routes and trails we have created.
The Walking Trail
- Permits can be purchased from the Tasting Room on the Estate 7 days a week from 9am to 5 pm.
- The permit costs R350 per year for adults. Children under 12 are free.
- A daily permit is available at a cost of R50 per adult. Children under 12 are free.
- Patron card holders *, pensioners, scholars and students 21 years and under, will pay R250 per year.
- A map and wristband will be provided on purchasing the permit. Please wear the wristband when walking on the Estate.
- The permit year begins on 1 March and ends on 28 February.
- Walking Card Permit Fees will reduce from July to October to R230 and from November to February to R110.
- Special Card Permit Fees will reduce from July to October to R166 and from November to February to R80.
* Patron Card Holders
All residents of Klein Zevenwacht, The Country Estate, Zevenwacht Village, Zevendal, Zevenzicht, and Zevenwacht Lifestyle Estate are entitled to sign up as a Patron Club Member to receive the following benefits:
- 10% Discount on all wine sale purchases from the Tasting Room
- Complimentary wine tasting for Patron card holders only
- 10% Discount at the Manor House Restaurant
- 10% Discount for bookings at any of our accommodation, The Country Inn, Vineyard Cottages of Chalet.
- 10% Discount at the Bakwena Spa on Zevenwacht
A once-off Admin card fee of R50 per household / family is payable on registration as a Patron Club Member. Your card can then be used at the different facilities on the Estate to secure your benefits.
Gable Walk
This is an easy 2.5 km walk along the new trail parallel to the tar road with a slight elevation.
Vine Trail
This is a more strenuous 5 km route on a jeep track, and through the vineyards with areas of steep elevation and spectacular views.
Pine Track
This is a rustic off-road alternative to the Gable Walk. This 2.3 km route is ideal for dogs which must be on a lead at all times.
GPS Coordinates: Latitude:-33.93125 Longitude: 18.7204
Elevation: The trails on the farm range from 200 – 350 meters above sea level.
MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS
The designated mountain bike trails form part of the greater Bottelary Hills Conservancy and the MTB routes are allowed via controlled access to the conservancy along the well-marked trails.
BHCMTB Day Permits are available from Zevenwacht Security. Payment is by Zapper or cash. Alternatively Annual Permits can be purchased Online at https://bottelaryconservancy.co.za/shop/ with the option to collect from Attitude Cycles in Brackenfell, Chris Willemse Cycles at Willowbridge, Cyclosport in Kuils River and Flandria Cycles in Stellenbosch.
THE DOWNHILL TRACK
There is a downhill track on Zevenwacht and it is one of a few tracks in the area where Western Cape Downhill holds races. This track hosts the infamous Tin Mine jump, which takes cyclists over the opening of a Tin Mine shaft. Downhill cyclists of all levels are able to ride the track.
The recently upgraded track is open for cycling 7 days a week. Cyclists must purchase permits from the Tasting Room.
Day permits – R80 per rider.
Day permits including own shuttle – R150 per rider.
Regular shuttle days will be held and the cost is R350 per rider.
Follow us on Instagram @zevenwacht_downhill for information on when the shuttle days will be happening.
Please note that you do not need a Bottelary Hills Conservancy MTB permit to ride the downhill track.