With a whistle, a wisp of smoke passed through the forest. Every Saturday, a steam train pulls into the Elgin Valley, the Western Cape’s own apple country. With the town of Grabao at its core, the region is characterized by orchards and vineyards, synonymous with abundant deciduous fruits, high-quality wines and close links to trains. With this abundant resource, the region has prospered for centuries and shows no signs of slowing down.
In the 1800s, when the first railway line was built, Elgin proved to be an ideal location for the railway station. This has played an important role in transporting the region’s agricultural products around the world and making the valley famous all over the world. A visit to the Elgin Apple Museum will take you back in time and delve into the history of the fruit industry. But there is more than one way to go back in time. Hop aboard the Ceres Railway and relive the fascinating travel experiences of yesteryear. Departing from Cape Town, enjoy comfortable plush seating and gleaming interiors while taking in the views en route to Elgin in Falls Bay.
Upon arrival, explore the Elgin Railway Market, which was converted from a refurbished Apple warehouse. This center caters to foodies, art connoisseurs and explorers. Browse sculptures by Vincent Da Silva or pick up a handmade gift from Stanford Wood Studio. Outside the building, Liberty Books converted an old bus into a library to feed bookworms. After eating sushi or hearty curry, take a stroll through this scenic venue. A faster way to get around is to rent a self-balancing scooter from Cape Segways and visit the Oak Valley Estate.
The Paul Cluver Wines winery, located 10 minutes from the hotel, offers unforgettable experiences for music lovers. In addition to making fine wines, the owners of this century-old vineyard have built an amphitheater out of cut wood to host South Africa’s most sought-after artists. When the breeze rustles through the eucalyptus trees and the sound of serenades fills the air, you might want to stay outside. Cherry Glamping is nearby. Lie in a warm bed under a forest luxury tent and enjoy the forest atmosphere and the privileges of modern living.
With fresh air, amazing views, and all the pleasures of nature, what more could one ask for? Elgin offers tranquility and entertainment suitable for every family member. This healthy valley is expected to remain fruitful for years to come.