Fossil Hills 3 Day Wine Walk Trails

McGregor, Western Cape

Nestled in the picturesque Breede Valley, Fossil Hills is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Naudé family. Located between Robertson and McGregor, Thornvilla, our family-run farm, has been at the heart of local agriculture and winemaking since 1950.

The farm’s rich history is intertwined with the discovery off ancient fossils dating back to 355 million years, lending the land an air of mystique and timeless beauty.

Fossil Hills is more than a farm; it’s a retreat into the wonders of nature and the tranquility of countryside living. Here, amidst breathtaking mountain vistas and the gentle rhythms of farm life, guests can find a peaceful escape, a place to rejuvenate the spirit and reconnect with the essence of the natural world, offering farm-style accommodation, a wedding or private function venue and one to three-day trial wine walks.

Fossil Hills offers an array of activities for an unforgettable stay: unwind in our luxurious hot tub, fish in our large farm ponds with provided rods and spinners and enjoy free kayaking and picnicking at the dam.

Explore the versatile 8km circle route for 4×4 driving, with a winter mud hole, jogging, walking, or cycling, with two bikes available per house or cottage (upon booking).

Immerse yourself in the daily workings of our operational farm or simply relax and soak in the serene countryside atmosphere. All our units are equipped with high speed wifi, aircon and DSTV Some units are pet friendly and wheelchair friendly too.

The Trail

The Fossil Hills Wine Walk is a three-day guided adventure in the scenic McGregor Valley, just two hours from Cape Town. With daily hikes of 10-13km, you’ll explore beautiful landscapes ending each day at a local wine farm for tastings and lunch. As you hike through this breath-taking landscape, you’ll visit some of the region’s finest wine farms, where each day’s journey ends with a well deserved wine tasting and light lunch.

Starting and and finishing at Fossil Hills, this unique adventure is designed for small groups, with a minimum of four participants, ensuring a personal and unforgettable experience. So come and create lasting memories while exploring the beauty and tranquility of the McGregor Valley on foot.

At Fossil Hills Wine Walk, our focus is on reconnecting with nature and friends—particularly the rich landscapes of fynbos and renosterveld. We believe in offering more than just wine tastings; we provide an opportunity to rediscover yourself in the serene beauty of the outdoors—a true patch for the soul and making memories with friends.

Fossil Hills Wine Walks offers a unique approach. Our trails are designed to immerse you in nature, with single-track routes that offer a moderate challenge. It’s perfect for those who seek a bit more adventure while still enjoying the best of McGregor’s winelands.

Information

We offer hikes throughout the year. The most popular times to explore are in spring and autumn—when the wildflowers are in full bloom, with September being especially spectacular. These spots are booked way in advance, so don’t miss out.

What to experience:

Enjoy single-track hiking, wine tastings, ice cream pairing, gin tasting, and the beauty of fynbos and renosterveld. Discover marine fossils, experience fun activities along the trail, and immerse yourself in McGregor’s unique culture and countryside hospitality. Don’t miss a guided tour of the Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary!

Availability:

Please ensure you check availability with Nadia Naudé at 076 166 9268 before booking. Walks are available Monday through to Saturday, but not on Sundays. We accommodate groups of 4 to 20 people. If your group is smaller than 4, we can join you with another group, so please still contact us for availability

Itinerary:

Daily Wine Walk Itinerary

Start Times: Every hike begins at 7:45 AM and ends around 2:30 PM.

Each evening, you’ll receive a briefing to go over the next day’s itinerary so you’re prepared for what’s ahead.

Highly recommended: Stay an extra night for more relaxation or to explore what you didn’t have time for (please check availability).

Day 1 – Monday

Day 1 – Welcome
Meals Included: Welcome drink & canapés, 3-course dinner
Arrive and check in from 4:00 PM at Pinotage/Tango House (Fossil Hills Accommodation)
Meet your guide
Enjoy a welcome drink and canapés
Short introduction, briefing, and scenery slideshow 3-course dinner with wine from various local cellars

Day 2 – Tuesday (13km, rocky terrain)

Day 2 – Single Track, Rocky Terrain
Distance: 10 km or 13 km (optional)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Light Lunch, Dinner
Continental and farm-style breakfast buffet at Fossil Hills Venue
7:45 AM – Start your first day of hiking and tastings (transport to drop-off point provided)
Lunch and wine tasting at Lord’s Cellar
Transport back to Pinotage House for leisure time at Fossil Hills or in McGregor
3-course dinner with a glass of wine and a gin tasting

Day 3 – Wednesday (10km, moderate trail)

Day 3 – Moderate Single Track with Uphill hiking
Distance: 10 km
Meals Included: Breakfast, Light Lunch, Dinner
Continental and farm-style breakfast at Fossil Hills Venue
7:45 AM – Begin Day 3 of hiking and tastings
Wine and ice cream pairing with a light lunch at McGregor Wines
Enjoy leisure time at the farm or in McGregor (own transport)
Wine tasting at Bemind Cellar (optional transport available)
3-course dinner in McGregor with a glass of wine (optional transport available)

Day 4 – Thursday (10km, lite trail)

Day 4 – Easy Terrain
Distance: 10 km
Meals Included: Breakfast, Light Lunch
Continental and farm-style breakfast buffet at Fossil Hills Venue
Pack bags and vacate rooms before the day’s tour begins
Final day of walking and tastings
Wine and grappa tasting at Tanagra Cellar
Light lunch and guided donkey tour at Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary Walk or transport back to Fossil Hills for departure (showers available) Farewell and safe travels!
Optional: Book a 4th Night

Day 5 – Friday (Optional)

Meals not included – we can recommend local restaurants
Try one of the scenic hiking trails on Thornvilla Farm or Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve
Unwind in a steaming hot tub at Fossil Hills
Departure by 10:00 AM (please check availability)

What to wear:

Comfortable hiking clothes and shoes with good grip Sun hat for protection

Fitness Or Physical Requirements:

Prepare to walk approximately 10 km daily, with the pace varying based on group fitness. – Day 1: Rocky terrain – Day 2: Uphill hiking – Day 3: Easy, light walk.

What to bring:

Snacks and drinks for energy during picnic stops (feel free to pack a small lunch box)
2-liter water bottle (hydration container/bladder)
Comfortable hiking shoes and attire
Rain jacket (prepare for any weather)
Small backpack for snacks, water, and extra layers
Sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
Swimwear for the hot tub
Optional: Aqua shoes or Crocs for Day 1 (small water stream crossings)
Recommended: Walking stick and small binoculars for birdwatching
Travel light—less is more. Embrace the light, spread the light!
Remember: There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing

Included

3-night stay at Fossil Hills (Complimentary Wi-Fi)
Daily continental and farm-style breakfasts
3 light lunches
3 three-course dinners (each includes a glass of wine)
4 wine tastings
1 wine and ice cream pairing
1 gin tasting Fresh, in-season farm fruit
Transport along the wine hike routes
Optional transport to and from dinner in McGregor
Park fees and guided tours by an accredited guide
Access to Fossil Hills Farm’s leisure activities: hot tubs, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, picnics, hiking, fishing, birdwatching, or simply relaxing with stunning views
Filtered water provided at the guest house
Locations for dinner and wine cellars may vary according to availability

Not Included

Self-service honesty bar available at Pinotage House
Snacks and refreshments for picnic stops (bring a small lunch box, optional)
Transport between Tango Guesthouse and Pinotage House/Venue (1 km)—can be arranged for an additional fee
Extra drinks at restaurants and wine cellars (outside of the set menu) are at your own expense
Gratuities are at your discretion
Explore McGregor’s local scene: restaurants, workshops, spas, and shops (check the McGregor Tourism app or our “Things to Do” guide)
Guests are responsible for booking these activities in advance via McGregor Tourism or directly with businesses
Experience McGregor’s vibrant culture with pre-drinks at local pubs and bars (perfect if you arrive early).

Terms & conditions:

Minimum of 4 guests required to confirm a tour (max 20 guests). Smaller groups will be waitlisted or offered alternative dates.
Midweek bookings: Monday to Thursday
Weekend bookings: Thursday to Sunday (availability upon inquiry)
Available year-round from January to December
The schedule may adjust due to weather or availability
Additional drinks beyond the included wine at dinner are optional
A 30% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking, with the remaining balance due three months before the hike
Cancellations made within 60 days of the booking will forfeit the 30% deposit