ACCOMMODATION
So over time we built 3 accommodation units. And through the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy, launched 120kms of custom-built mountain bike trails, combined into 4 routes. These are also used for trail runs and as hiking routes. Strawberry Hill Farm is right on the border with the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve (a CapeNature Reserve). And we share our forests, mountains and rivers with the reserve.
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You’ll find us close to the towns of Swellendam and Heidelberg, in the Western Cape of South Africa, at the start of the Garden Route.
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WE’RE ALSO A MEMBER OF THE
GROOTVADERSBOSCH CONSERVANCY.
So, with the 18 other members (landowners) of the Conservancy, we work together to protect
our collective 35,000 hectares. That includes:
our collective 35,000 hectares. That includes:
1. CLEARING INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES
2. REHABILITATING OUR FORESTS
3. UPSKILLING VULNERABLE COMMUNITIES
4. EDUCATING CHILDREN ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENT
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The Grootvadersbosch Forest is the most significant extent of afromontane forest left in the Southern Cape. South African forests have the highest biodiversity of any temperate forested region in the world. And our forests are home to many species, including forest endemic birds such as the Forest Buzzard, Knysna Woodpecker, Knysna Warbler and Forest Canary. The forest is also home to an endemic butterfly, (Charaxes xiphares xiphares subsp, occidentalis). The Eastern ghost frog is also endemic to these forests. (Images: Bionerds)
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THE Team
AILEENAileen is passionate about riding her bike and exploring MTB trails with her Staffies, Eva and Rosco. She has two too many master's degrees and now focuses her time on managing two non-profits in the valley-the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy and the Silver Mountain Foundation. These entities create environmental jobs and promote arts and culture in rural areas.
Rachel is our hard working cleaner who takes great care in making sure the houses are in perfect condition for your visit. Rachel and her family lived on the farm for many generations but they now live in town so that their children can get to school more easily.
DANIE
Danie is married to Rachel and he grew up on the farm. He knows the farm better than anyone and is paticularly skilled in irrigation, fixing water issues and anything to do with trees and woodwork.
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ANDRE
He takes the lead on planning work and keeping everyone on track. Andre is often on hand to assist with maintenance and guest questions. He is the farm driver and maintenance man and is very knowledgable about the trails as he was part of the initial trail building team.
TIENIE
Tienie is Danie's brother and he also grew up on the farm. Like his brother, he knows the farm really well. He is our quiet tractor driver and is also very skilled with anything to do with trees and woodwork.
SAUL
Saul is relatively new to the team but has become indispensable for his exceptional painting skills. No one can paint a straight line like Saul! He is also well known for his green fingers and love of anything garden related.
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