Ashton

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Ashton's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Heritage Route
morning
:

Start your morning with a guided tour around Ashton, immersing yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture. Visit local museums and historic landmarks to understand the town's origins and significance.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a quaint local café featuring traditional South African cuisine. Spend the afternoon strolling through artisan shops and galleries showcasing local craftsmanship and artwork.

evening
:

Relax at a winery nearby and savor a tasting session with views of the stunning Breede River Valley. Enjoy a sunset picnic or light dinner paired with some of the region's finest wines.

day 2
Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour
morning
:

Visit one of Ashton’s renowned vineyards for an informative tour about grape cultivation and wine production. Participate in a morning tasting session to experience a range of local wines.

afternoon
:

Have a farm-to-table lunch at the vineyard’s restaurant, enjoying fresh regional produce. Take a leisurely walk through the vineyard’s scenic trails to absorb the countryside’s natural beauty.

evening
:

Attend a wine-paired dinner event celebrating local flavors and seasonal ingredients. Engage with the winemakers to learn about the region’s unique varietals and production methods.

day 3
Outdoor Adventures in Nature
morning
:

Head out early for a guided hiking trail near Ashton, discovering indigenous flora and fauna. Capture scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

afternoon
:

Picnic in a designated nature reserve area, soaking in the tranquility of the landscape. Optionally, visit a nearby bird sanctuary for a relaxing afternoon of birdwatching.

evening
:

Attend an outdoor braai (barbecue) with locals, sharing stories and enjoying traditional dishes. Experience the clear night sky, perfect for stargazing far from city lights.

day 4
Cultural Immersion and Local Markets
morning
:

Visit Ashton’s bustling local market where vendors display handmade crafts, fresh produce, and local foods. Engage in conversations with residents to get authentic stories and insights.

afternoon
:

Join a cooking workshop focused on traditional South African recipes, learning both techniques and cultural significance. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for a hearty lunch.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance or storytelling session that showcases local music and history. Connect with artists and performers over light refreshments in an intimate setting.

day 5
Photography and Scenic Drives
morning
:

Take an early morning drive to capture the sunrise over the Breede River Valley, with stops at scenic viewpoints. Use this time to practice landscape photography.

afternoon
:

Continue exploring less traveled routes around Ashton, visiting small villages and roadside attractions. Stop for lunch at a family-run eatery offering home-cooked meals.

evening
:

Review and share your day's photos back at your accommodation, perhaps over a light dinner. Reflect on the day’s adventures in a cozy, relaxing atmosphere.

day 6
Visit Historical Farms and Estates
morning
:

Tour one of Ashton’s historic farms, learning about traditional farming techniques and heritage crops. Enjoy guided commentary on the region’s agricultural development.

afternoon
:

Participate in a hands-on workshop such as cheese making or honey harvesting on the farm. Savor a farm-fresh lunch prepared with ingredients sourced right from the estate.

evening
:

Wind down with a leisurely walk around the estate gardens as the sun sets. End the day with a quiet dinner in a farmhouse-style restaurant featuring local specialties.

day 7
Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting
morning
:

Begin early with a guided birdwatching tour in nearby wetlands, identifying endemic and migratory species. Learn about conservation efforts and local habitats.

afternoon
:

Lunch outdoors at a scenic spot, possibly near a river or lake known for wildlife activity. Spend the afternoon visiting a nearby wildlife rehabilitation center or nature reserve.

evening
:

Enjoy an informal discussion or presentation about local wildlife after dinner. Share experiences with fellow nature enthusiasts in a comfortable setting.

day 8
Spa Day and Wellness Retreat
morning
:

Dedicate your morning to relaxation with a spa treatment featuring local natural products like rooibos or fynbos extracts. Enjoy wellness activities such as yoga or meditation in serene surroundings.

afternoon
:

Have a light, healthy lunch focusing on fresh organic ingredients. Participate in a workshop about traditional healing practices or natural remedies used in the region.

evening
:

Wind down with a calming nature walk at sunset. End the day with a nourishing dinner designed to complement your wellness day.

day 9
Explore Local Art and Craft Scene
morning
:

Visit Ashton’s art studios and galleries to meet local artists and discover contemporary and traditional artworks. Participate in a small art workshop or demonstration.

afternoon
:

Lunch at a café known for supporting local artisans. Spend the afternoon browsing craft shops for unique souvenirs, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry.

evening
:

Attend an art opening or showcase featuring emerging talents. Enjoy light refreshments while engaging with creative minds in the community.

day 10
Farmers’ Market and Culinary Experience
morning
:

Start at the vibrant farmers’ market, tasting fresh breads, cheeses, and seasonal fruits. Chat with vendors about their farming and cooking practices.

afternoon
:

Participate in a culinary tour that includes farm visits and tastings of delicacies like biltong and apricot preserves. Enjoy a hands-on cooking class focusing on South African comfort food.

evening
:

Conclude your culinary journey with a group dinner sharing the dishes prepared during the day. Celebrate the flavors of Ashton with local wine pairings in a friendly atmosphere.

Discover Ashton

Read more in our Ashton 2025 Travel Guide.

Ashton Travel Guide