CHERRY PICKING AT KLONDYKE FARM

It’s berry season, so take advantage summer’s bounty and go cherry picking at the picturesque Klondyke Farm in Ceres.

Klondyke is a working fruit farm in the Koue Bokkeveld, just outside the Ceres valley – a two-hour drive from Cape Town. A highlight at the farm is the annual cherry picking, which is open to the public. The farm also boasts three quaint self-catering cottages and a campsite.

First came the blossoms in Spring and now the cherries have transformed from bright green, inedible hard lumps in October to sweet and plump ripe fruits that are now ready for picking.

Several exciting varieties with colours ranging from bright crimson to deep dark reds are available, depending on the time you visit.

Enjoy the outdoors with family and friends and spend a day at the farm parking off in the shade of the pine trees for a picnic or braai.

Bring something warm as it can get cold, even in summer, and don’t forget closed shoes because of potential spiky plant matter in the orchards.

How it works
Pay your small entry fee, grab a container and head to the orchard where you can pick cherries to your heart’s content. You’ll pay R50 per kilogram for your produce which is around four times more affordable than in the supermarket. They accept cash and credit cards.

There’s plenty do in the area such as golf, wine tasting, museums, hiking, biking, horse riding, fishing and more, so consider staying over at Klondyke either at the campsite or one of their three two- to eight-sleeper cottages. Check their website for availability.

OF NOTE
When Wednesday 25 November 2016 – 6 January 2016 Seven days a week 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (except on 25 December)
Where Klondyke Farm, Ceres (directions here)
Cost R20 entrance fee. Children up to 5 years enter free. Cherries are R50 per kg
Contact +27 23 312 1521 or +27 87 550 0232, [email protected]

Photography courtesy Klondyke and Gitta Paetzold