The valley that runs southeast from Stellenbosch toward the Jonkershoek mountains is one of the most scenic in the Western Cape. Wine estates occupy the lower valley — including the beautiful Lanzerac and Rustenberg estates — while the upper valley is the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, with fynbos-covered mountains, streams, and hiking trails.
The reserve has trails ranging from an easy riverside walk to a full-day mountain hike. The Panorama Route is a popular half-day trail with exceptional views over the valley and the surrounding mountains. The river provides swimming holes in summer. The reserve entry is charged and the gate is about five kilometres from the town centre.