APRICOT PICKING IN CALITZDORP

Take advantage of the summer fruit that the Western Cape has to offer – apricots are in season and are ready for picking.

A prime spot for picking apricots is near Calitzdorp, a quaint town west of the Klein Karoo. You can get there along Route 62, a tourist route that snakes between Cape Town and Oudtshoorn; offering a more scenic alternative to the N2 highway.

Near Calitzdorp in the Gamka River Valley, you will find the De Krans Wine Cellar where you may take part in their annual apricot picking extravaganza. The history of De Krans dates back to 1890, and it’s well known in South Africa as a producer of port.

Apricot picking is a fun family occasion, where kids will love picking their own sweet, juicy Bulida apricots at the farm. All you need to bring is a container to carry your bounty.

Other activities
A new tasting room and deli provide the opportunity for guests to taste De Krans wines as well as to enjoy a delicious meal in the restaurant or outside on the veranda. There is a playground on the premises to keep the kids entertained while you sample a range award-winning ports and value-for-money wines, including the De Krans Free-Run Chenin Blanc 2015, which was named the Champion White Wine at the Klein Karoo Young Wine Show this year.

During your visit, take the opportunity to stock up on wholesome local produce from the area to fill up your pantry. The deli will be open every Sunday from 22 November 2015.

Yellow cling peach picking
Make a date from 16–27 December during the school holidays to pick succulent yellow cling peaches at De Krans.

Hanepoot grape picking 
Visit the farm during harvest season in February and March 2016 to pick delicious Hanepoot grapes.

OF NOTE
When Saturday 21 November – Sunday 6 December 2015 8 am – 4 pm daily (The deli will be open every Sunday from 22 November 2015)
Where De Krans Wine Cellar, Calitzdorp
Cost R5.50 per kg
Contact +27 44 213 3314

Photography courtesy