Helderberg Farm — Attraction in Stellenbosch Local Municipality

I visited on the 12 October with 3 friends, a 4 vehicle convoy I followed Google Map's directions and got lost for the 1st time ever using Google Maps this place is very badly sign posted, here are some useful GPS Co Ordinates for Helderberg 4x4

Turn off from Broadway Boulevard S34.03708 E18.82402

Reception (obtain permits) S34.03260 E18.83357

Start of 4x4 Trail S34.03410 E18.83146

Lower Viewpoint S34.03933 E18.84699

Top of 4x4 Trail S34.03878 E18.85701

With these waypoints you will not get lost like we did, trying to find the place. R250.00 buys you a permit to do the 4x4 route, the lady in reception was friendly, courteous and professional, oh I had to leave a R200 gate key deposit, the gate was open due to road construction being carried out on the farm which the reception was aware of as she informed us of it.

There was 2nd grade strawberries on offer R50 for 2 pallets and the usual snacks available as is the norm at convenient shops, there is a Tea Garden and Farmyard to keep kids occupied.

Hiking and mountain biking is also on offer.

The route is divided into 2, a Blue Route and a more challenging Red Route, both are approx 12 kilometers in length, we opted for the Blue Route as we consider ourselves novices,

One of our party has a Ford Ranger 4x2 with diff lock, which he completed the entire Blue Route in without any complications, great driving skills and knowledge of his vehicle was accredited to this.

There is a Viewpoint 3 quarters of the way up with spectacular views of False Bay, a great photo opportunity, the last quarter has 2 challenging sections which is easily completed with the correct gearing and attitude, AS SLOW AS POSSIBLE AND AS FAST AS NECCESSARY, watch out for mountain bikers, at intersecting paths , great views once again when the top is reached.

The way down is the same route, at least until you reach the look out point again, from here you have to take the track to the right which will take you back to the Reception.

We had an enjoyable day until we were told to obtain a R50 permit to braai and pay R50 per person for the privilege, we were livered, naturally we will not be visiting again anytime soon. I can now scratch Helderberg Farm 4x4 trail off my to do list.

The toilet facilities at reception is grossly inadequate and the toilet was not working when I wanted to use it after completing the 4x4 trail.

There are many other 4x4 trails in and around Cape Town, which are less expensive and more challenging, with free braai facilities.

A suggestion to the Owners of Helderberg 4x4 route, designate a specific braai area to those doing your 4x4 route and include it in your 4x4 routes tariff you have the space.

Go if you must, but if I knew then what I know now, I would not waste my money, as there are many...

Planned this past Sunday to visit the very charming Helderberg Farm. Of course there website was totally misleading.

When we arrived for our Mothers Day family Picnic it was not what we expected. The place was not very busy for such a lovely sunny Sunday, The Teahouse upon entering was virtually empty and the furniture rusted old wire garden furniture needs to be replaced.

We inquired about where payment should be made and where could go and camp out for the day. The person who assisted us was not very helpful and uninformed. We were told that we could picnic in a small designated lawn area by the kids play area. We were a big group and it would not have worked for us.

It looks like it once was but no more. R50 for adults and R25.00 for kids and an extra R50 for entry to the braai area (we did not even braai) was just ridiculous.

Will not be visiting...

I visited this place and had a mixed experience. On the positive side, the reception staff was excellent—friendly, professional, and welcoming. However, the reception house itself looks outdated and could use a serious revamp.

The facility as a whole is in dire need of upgrades. The toilets have visible signs of corrosion, and the water taps at the braaing area are deteriorated, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, the grasses around the taps are overgrown and need to be trimmed.

Another suggestion would be for the shop to stock items necessary for braaing, as this would add convenience for visitors.

While the staff does a great job, the management needs to invest in upgrading the amenities and maintaining the property. This place has potential, but it requires some attention to make it more enjoyable...