Wondering what to do with your chlidren over weekends, school holidays or public holidays?Head to the Drakenstein Valley – a family paradise with activities tailored specifically to entertain the young ones.
They can learn about ancient reptiles at the Le Bonheur Crocodile farm in Simondium, where the croc pond has 1 000 residents.There is even a croc cage dive (for over-nine-year-olds). There are also emus and potbelly pigs, a dam for catch and release fishing and a cozy pizzeria.
For another animal encounter of a cuddlier kind, meet some South American alpacas at The Alpaca Loom in Paarl or the Alpaca Farm in Wellington.Children can cuddle up to them in the petting zoo and even help feeding them.Visitors can see how the alpaca fibres are woven on a loom and transformed into scarves, shawls and blankets.
Rhebokskloof Wine Estate has acres of lawns, a jungle gym and jumping castle.
On special days, there are events and festivals such as Ommiberg and arranged kiddies parties, with Romping Rascals, an obstacle course, pushbikes, tractor trikes and a trampoline.On Sundays, there are pony rides, and plans are being made to develop a special MTB kids track.
The historic Nederburg Wine Estate provides a kids’ tasting, featuring a mystery box, a pairing of hot chocolate and strawberry milkshake with marshmallows and cookies.
Other child-friendly venues in the area include the Language Monument, Kikka coffee shops with special kiddies sections, Under Oaks, Windmeul Cellar, the goat shed at Fairview and Laborie.
Dunstone Wines and Val du Charon have lovely areas for children to run around, or try a game drive at Bontebok Ridge Game Reserve, and guided game safari through the indigenous Cape fynbos. For more information, contact Paarl Tourism on 021872 4842, or Wellington Tourism at 021 864 1378.
