Traversing a tapestry of fynbos and fruit farms this slackpack trail offers fine food and farm stays in the Elgin and Bot River Valleys of South Africa. Accommodation is at four-star graded (TGCSA) Wildekrans Country House. Delicious , wholesome meals are provided throughout.

The trail meanders around the Groenlandberg, part of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve. Guided by passionate and FGASA accredited guides you learn about the biodiversity and the history of the area. Immersing oneself in this protected natural environment is a game changer for both body and soul.

The Green Mountain Trail is a moderate walking trail with distances varying between 11kms and 18kms each day. The effort level, as gauged by Slackpacker South Africa, is set at 3.5, on a scale of 0 to 5, with 5 being the most difficult.

The trail traverses privately owned land. All landowners are members of the Groenlandberg Conservancy, the world’s first biodiversity wine route, and the region’s leader in efforts to conserve the environment and promote responsible tourism.

The wine farms we journey through are Biodiversity Wine Initiative champions. This enlightened initiative unites conservation and agricultural development in a complementary, mutually beneficial manner. As part of the Green Mountain Trail’s social responsibility programme, hikers are encouraged to “Walk with an Alien,” a project in which a personalised walking stick is carved from alien vegetation by local communities.