Ashton, Breede River Valley

Lying in the Robertson Wine Valley, sandwiched between the Breede River and the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains, the little village of Ashton is famous for its fruit, wine and rose nurseries, and is home to two large fruit canneries and five wineries.

Ashton originally served as a residential area for the employees of one of the largest factory co-operatives in the southern hemisphere, which produced canned fruit, jams and vegetables. Today, Ashton is one of the towns on Route 62 - the shorter more scenic alternative to the N2 highway that is fast earning a reputation as the world’s longest wine route - and is one of the main wine-producing towns on the Robertson Wine Route. (See Cape Wine Routes).

The valley has minimal rainfall and fairly harsh weather conditions that include hot, dry days and cold nights - perfect for the lime-rich soil of the region to yield some world-class and unique tasting wines. If you’re in a rush and can’t visit the Ashton Cellars, then head for the Wine Boutique on Main Street in Ashton for some wine-tasting.

To enjoy the views of this beautiful part of the world, follow road markers to the panoramic vista viewpoint just outside of town or attempt one of the day walks in the surrounding foothills of Ashton, through some fine examples of local fynbos. For the more adventurous, Cogmans Kloof, just 2 km out of Ashton, offers fairly daunting rock climbing opportunities.