 | Drakenstein Municipality launches ‘SA’s first’ sustainable tourism route
09 May 2024 | Press Releases |
9 May 2024
Drakenstein Municipality has launched what is said to be South Africa's very first sustainable tourism route. Crisscrossing the Paarl-Wellington destination, roughly one hour's drive from Cape Town, the new Winelands Sustainable Tourism Route features a blend of brand-new and established sustainable attractions that can be explored with purpose – from wine farms promoting regeneration, wildlife sanctuaries, distinctive fynbos experiences, eco-friendly transport, to upcycling innovation.
Drakenstein encompasses Paarl, Wellington, Mbekweni, as well as the formal settlements of Simondium, Gouda, Hermon and Saron.
The launch event on the Plaisir Wine Estate in Simondium on Wednesday, 24 April 2024, coincided with the Municipality's celebration of Fair Trade Day 2024 - in collaboration with Fairtrade Africa and the World Fair Trade Organization Africa and Middle East.
Drakenstein Municipality is Africa's first self-declared Fair Trade City, as well as the host destination of the very first International Fair Trade Cities and Towns International Conference to be held in Africa, taking place from 20 to 22 September 2024 in Paarl and Wellington. (Those interested in attending can register here.)
“The launch of the Winelands Sustainable Tourism Route is not just an opening of roads less travelled; it is a bold statement of the dedication to the principles of sustainability—principles that ensure the beauty and biodiversity of our region endure for generations to come," said keynote speaker, Mireille Wenger, Western Cape Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities.
“We are at a crucial juncture. The World Travel & Tourism Council highlights that tourism accounts for 8% to 11% of global greenhouse emissions. By championing sustainable practices, we can mitigate our environmental impact, demonstrating to the world that responsible travel is not only possible but preferable," Minister Wenger added.
“The Winelands Sustainable Tourism Route is testament to what can be achieved when we harness sustainable practices and invite and encourage our tourists to tread lightly and admire quietly, ensuring minimal impact on our cherished landscapes, while supporting our communities to grow meaningfully," she said.
The day-long launch event gave attendees a taste of what visitors can expect from the route's attractions. It was the perfect opportunity for local sustainable producers, tourism trade, and media to connect while they see, taste, feel, and engage with sustainable products that can be included in their travel itineraries or procurement catalogues. Guests, including representatives of tourism associations, the tourism industry and the business sector, had the option of exploring one of two bespoke mini routes while influencers documented their experiences on social media.
“Today's launch is the result of Drakenstein Municipality's dedication to facilitating an inclusive local economy, and of a fruitful partnership and excellent collaboration with our product owners and everyone who made this possible," said Seraj Johaar, Executive Director: Corporate and Planning Services, Drakenstein Municipality.
“The Municipality's Tourism Development Plan lists the development of Sustainable Tourism as a strategic pillar underpinning our drive to establish Paarl-Wellington as a premier global sport, wellness, and adventure tourism destination. All the development projects, programmes and initiatives under this pillar must align with the internationally recognised 17 Sustainable Development Goals and reflect interventions that address poverty alleviation, job creation, and conserving the environment," he said.
Sustainability is in the DNA of the Drakenstein community. The Municipality's sustainability vision is to grow the area and build a city of excellence for its people, and to attract investment to stimulate development, economic growth, and job creation so that it can improve people's lives – without compromising the quality of the environment for the future generations of Drakenstein.
“Choosing sustainability is at the core of the development of the Winelands Sustainable Tourism Route. We currently have 10 attractions forming part of the route but are convinced that this list will grow as we are already receiving enquiries from other sustainable tourism products and businesses in the region expressing an interest to join the route," said Johaar.
Let sustainability be your compass
Each stop on the new Winelands Sustainable Tourism Route is dedicated to delivering quality and authentic moments and memories, leaving a positive footprint on local communities and the environment. Here you can immerse yourself in experiences that speak to your heart and soul as a responsible traveller.
1. Perdeberg Wines
Perdeberg Wines is unwavering in their commitment to sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices throughout their winemaking process. Utilising the BioBee Project, they champion natural pest control, minimising the need for harmful chemicals. With energy-efficient facilities and water conservation efforts, Perdeberg Wines not only produces outstanding wines but also embodies a holistic approach to environmental responsibility.
www.perdeberg.co.za | info@perdeberg.co.za | +27 (0)21 869 1094
2. Bartholomeus Klip
Bartholomeus Klip in the Riebeek Valley offers luxury accommodation, fine food, and genuine farm hospitality in a tranquil and exclusive setting. The Elandsberg Nature Reserve, a provincial nature reserve and natural heritage site since 2008, is a testament to their commitment to the environment. It is a vital conservation area within the Cape Floristic Region, one of the world's smallest floral kingdoms, with unique fynbos vegetation and endangered species such as the geometric tortoise.
www.bartholomeusklip.com | info@bartholomeusklip.com | +27 (0)21 300 1113
3. Bontebok Ridge Reserve
Experience the beauty of the Renosterveld Conservancy in the Limietberg Valley on a game drive through its unique fynbos in the Bontebok Ridge Reserve. South Africa's fauna, including bontebok and zebra, is featured alongside a groundbreaking breeding project aimed at reviving the extinct quagga. You can explore the unspoiled environment, which showcases diverse fauna and flora, and encounter a variety of bird species - from the tiny cisticola to the majestic African Fish Eagle. For more, have a look at this video.
www.turnercorp.co.za | info@turnercorp.co.za | +27 (0)82 576 9657
4. E-Zee Bikes
E-Zee Bikes, based in Wellington, offers a convenient and eco-friendly transport solution with their electric bikes. Effortlessly explore the Cape Winelands while minimising your carbon footprint with user-friendly rentals and tailormade tours. E-Zee Bikes provides an enjoyable, green way to experience the scenic beauty of the Winelands.
Visit E-Zee Bikes' Facebook page | info@ezeebikes.co.za | +27 (0)68 461 5581
5. Bosman Family Vineyards
When selecting Bosman Family Vineyards outside Wellington, you are making a sustainable choice. This means you can savour excellent wines that are not only crafted with precision but also produced with thoughtful consideration for our precious natural resources. Whether in the vineyards or the cellar, Bosman Family Vineyards consciously conserves resources, reduces waste, facilitates growth, and promotes regeneration.
www.bosmanwines.com | taste@bosmanwines.com | +27 (0)21 873 3170
6. South African Fynbos®
The South African Fynbos® range of indigenous gourmet herbs is a world first, leading a global flavour evolution and defining a distinctive South African culinary identity with botanicals unique to the southern tip of Africa. The South African Fynbos® experience is a guided tasting of this ancient flavour trail and simply a delectable sensory experience. For more, have a look at this video.
www.southafricanfynbos.com | info@southafricanfynbos.com | +27 (0)66 225 5722
7. Ashia Cheetah Conservation
Ashia Cheetah Conservation serves as a hub for this project's substantial conservation initiatives. Founded in 2016, its mission is to prevent the further decline of wild cheetah populations and enhance their gene pool by reintroducing cheetahs to game reserves and national parks in Southern Africa. It does this through its Release and Reintroduction Project.
www.ashia.co.za | enquiries@ashia.co.za | +27 (0)72 956 3282
8. Fairview
The Back family has been the caring and dedicated custodian of the Fairview farm since 1937. As the world evolves, the significance of sustainable farming and the adoption of eco-friendly practices have become increasingly prominent. Fairview remains steadfast in their commitment to sustainable practices across their vineyards, wine cellar, crop fields, estate gardens, and livestock management.
www.fairview.co.za | info@fairview.co.za | +27 (0)21 863 2450
9. Lilly Loompa
Discover Lilly Loompa's diverse collection of upcycled lifestyle items. Through their innovative process of upcycling, they transform discarded materials such as plastic, glass, and wood into stylish and sustainable products for your living space. Since 2018, they have been recognised for their commitment to upcycling and environmental stewardship.
www.lillyloompa.com | hello@lillyloompa.com | +27 (0)21 518 1132
10. Plaisir Wine Estate
Plaisir Wine Estate, nestled on the mountain slopes of Simonsberg in Simondium, is a sanctuary for local wildlife and indigenous plants. Through regenerative farming practices in the vineyards and the eco-rehabilitation of the river and mountain areas, Plaisir has become a paradise for nature and wine enthusiasts alike. The estate offers easy access to the most beautiful wilderness trails, suitable for running, cycling, or hiking. For more, have a look at this video.
www.plaisir.co.za | info@plaisir.co.za | +27 (0)21 488 9977
Let our Winelands Sustainable Tourism Route be your compass, unveiling how we make the most of our destination's resources while preserving our exquisite natural surroundings.
Come and explore with purpose!
For more information on the route and our tour guides, contact Chrismaré Carse at 021 807 7744 or Chrismare.Carse@drakenstein.gov.za.
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Issued by: Communication and Marketing, Drakenstein Municipality
