La Motte’s hiking trail is the answer for anyone who wants to walk in the Franschhoek valley without climbing a mountain. It is a five-kilometre circular route on the estate, of which roughly two kilometres is trail proper, through fynbos and vineyard on the valley floor. Allow two hours at walking pace or three at a stroll. It requires a fair degree of fitness.
It is more tightly managed than a public trail, and worth knowing the rules before you plan around it. Booking online in advance is essential, photo identification is checked at arrival, and the trail runs from October to April only, closing for the winter and on days when the temperature climbs above 35 degrees or it rains. Self-guided walkers may start until 14:00; guided walks run Tuesday to Friday at 08:00. It is not recommended for children under ten, and dogs are not permitted.
