Variety is in our Nature

Franschhoek – a picturesque valley ringed by tall mountains with gabled Cape Dutch houses knotted across the area offers spectacular 360 degree views. Franschhoek which is also known as the Valley of the Huguenots is one of the premier destinations in the world of wine and one of the most beautiful valleys on the globe. Because of the mountains surrounding the valley, there is diverse natural vegetation which makes Franschhoek truly unique.

Farmers in the valley are committed to conserving and protective of the indigenous vegetation. To this end, there have been several initiatives aimed at conserving the natural resources of the Valley and this has led to a conservancy. This has resulted in the eradication of alien vegetation and the rehabilitation of mountain and riverine areas to encourage the growth of indigenous fynbos and plant. The planting of indigenous trees has seen the return of birds, animals and insects some of which were regarded as endangered. A number of vignerons have set aside areas for conservation, and Boekenhoutskloof, Boschendal, GlenWood, Haut Espoir and Plaisir de Merle have all been recognised for their efforts in promoting the principles of biodiversity.

The Conservancy involves private and public participation in managing and conserving natural resources, with conservation actions to the ultimate benefit of nature conservation in the region. As the private landowners involved in this area have a variety of different land uses, a flexible constitution has been established to consider specific needs and wants. The guidelines are not rigidly enforced and participation is entirely voluntary. The benefits of establishing a Conservancy means the group has a considerably louder voice with which to raise concerns, for example: Advice and assistance from Nature Conservation, departmental help in reducing costs for alien clearing, establishing fire protection plans, sourcing indigenous plants and ultimately bringing the community together on related issues. The aims of our Conservancy are to clear alien vegetation and re-establish this area's unique indigenous fauna and flora in a working agricultural environment.

It is rare to find places as naturally well-endowed as Franschhoek, with the valley‘s Mont Rochelle Nature reserve a mere 8km from the centre of town. The well known Katse Pad takes walkers via a narrow footpath through renosterveld and mountain fynbos.

Eco-tourism forms a strong link and adds diversity of offering to this gourmet capital of the South Africa.