The Scary Corner Story

It is perhaps not surprising that a place such as the Banghoek Valley should have its own mysteries, what with its majestic mountains and velvet vineyard valleys.

Banghoek was once a dangerous valley that was home to various wild animals such as Tigers and Elephants, among others that roamed the valley all those centuries ago.  It was dangerously steep with only one road passing through it between Stellenbosch and Piketberg.  Whether sparked by the sense of danger in the valley, enticed by the smell of fresh mountain air seeping into the valley floors or convinced of the wild terrain’s ability to serve as a hide-out, travelers often journeyed through this valley.  And during their travels at night, they would sometimes fall prey to the wild animals or slaves who had escaped from prison and were on the run.  One thing we know for certain is that most of their journeys ended in this valley as their bodies silently floated down the river to the ‘other side’.  It is believed that Leopards still exist in the surrounding mountains today.

300 years later, travelers from around the world make their marks in the Banghoek Valley as they journey through the famous Cape Winelands.  Here is where they find comfort and shelter, fine cuisine and elegant wine, not to mention pampering and peace.  Located amid lush green vineyards along the R310 on the Helshoogte Pass in the Banghoek Valley, the 5-star Zorgvliet Vineyard Lodge & Spa and Zorgvliet Wine Estate sure make this corner of the world less scary today.

We feel that the Legend of Banghoek should not prevent you from enjoying dinner at one of estate’s restaurants.  Enjoy a mouth-watering menu that features delicious local dishes at Le Pommier or a more formal dining experience in the ambience of true Cape Dutch heritage in the graciously appointed and sensitively restored Herenhuis Restaurant, which dates back to 1692.

JUST BE CAREFUL WHEN WALKING ON THE BANGHOEK ROAD AT NIGHT… THERE’S ALWAYS TRUTH IN LEGENDS!