17 Things to do in Stanford in the Overberg
One thing you learn very quickly about Stanford in the Overberg is that it’s hard not to fall under the ...
Roxanne Reid
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“In company of horses - in balance with nature”. This is the motto of the African Horse Company and it offers a beautiful insight into the soul of the enterprise. Howard Krut, the man behind the company, has come a long way since he sold fresh produce from a horse-drawn wagon in the Oude Molen Eco Village in Pinelands. In fact, he has travelled across the Cape Floral Kingdom on horseback and has made it his mission to share that experience with as many people as possible. After moving to Stanford and establishing The African Horse Company, Howard began offering mountain rides, beach rides and then overnight trails in 2007. The focus of these rides is on honouring the long-standing bond that has existed between man and horse, horses having long been our working partners and friends.
The 25 horses that work for The African Horse Company roam freely on the 3000 hectare farm in Stanford and are good natured and relaxed. Crossbred with Arab, Boerperd and Friesian blood, these steeds are agile and hardy, perfect for long distance journeys across varied terrain.
The essence of an overnight trail is the journey and this journey begins at African Horse Company's base camp, Farm 215. The fully-guided cross-country adventure will take you across unspoiled beaches, untouched mountain trails and through an indigenous Milkwood forest. Observe the ever-changing landscapes of the Overberg’s Cape Floral Kingdom from a whole new angle, with eyes free to take in the natural beauty as the horses do the walking. Work your way over fields of fynbos covered mountain slopes, through vineyards and farmlands, exploring territory that isn’t accessible on foot. On warm days, enjoy a refreshing swim in a dam, as you traverse some of the old wagon trails dating back to a time when life was just a little less hurried. The overnight trails are vehicle supported and wholesome meals are prepared for you at the self-catering guest houses en-route.
A highlight of the journey is exploring the Walker Bay Nature Reserve as well as a few smaller private reserves. Between June and December Walker Bay is host to Southern Right Whales and De Kelders becomes the best place on earth to view these gentle giants of the ocean. Your ride will take you across pristine white sandy beaches, with space to gallop, where you and your horse can enjoy a dip in the ocean at the end of a long day’s ride.
Riders:
Groups for these rides can be between two and eight riders.
Trail Lengths:
Trail lengths are customised to suit the riders, but can stretch up to 40 kms in a day, making this an incredible way to cover so much of the beautiful Overberg’s varied terrain.
Date:
Contact the African Horse Company to reserve your seat in the saddle.
Accommodation:
Enjoy overnight stays in various homestead retreats, such as the tranquil Bodhi Khaya Retreat and the luxurious Farm 215.
Requirements:
A certain level of skill and fitness is required for trail riding and riders must be happy at a trot and comfortable at a canter, as well as being physically prepared for long hours in the saddle. The trail has two ‘out of the saddle’ half-days, set aside for relaxation and body rejuvenation. Travel medical insurance and sun protection are essential. Although hard hats are supplied it is suggested to bring your own chaps.
Itineraries:
“Get outside and enjoy nature, and let tomorrow take care of itself”.
Riders who have less time to enjoy the splendour of the area on horseback can join one of several shorter rides.
Groups for these rides can be between two and eight riders.
Stanford and Farm 215 mountain rides
Horse riding lessons and mini outrides
Beach ride at Die Plaat in De Kelders/Gansbaai
One thing you learn very quickly about Stanford in the Overberg is that it’s hard not to fall under the ...