About Helshoogte Pass
Helshoogte Pass, one of the most loved and travelled roads in the Western Cape, links Stellenbosch with the Drakenstein Valley, a scenic pass that transports one over the saddle that separates Simonsberg from the Jonkershoekberge and wends its way past fruit farms and vineyards en route.
Did you know? Die Burger Cycling Tour uses Helshoogte Pass as part of its route. But it is the scenery along Helshoogte Pass that steals the show every time.
The beauty of the route with towering mountains all round easily encapsulates the essence of the wine region. If there is one route all visitors should drive, it is this.
Only half an hour out of Cape Town, Helshoogte or 'hell's heights', also known as the R310, links the wine districts of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek and passes through the little villages of Kylemore, Johannesdal and Pniel. Pniel in particular is worth a stop before becoming caught up in the many other opportunities to sample wine, scenery and good food.
Pniel lies surrounded by vineyards and mountains, initially established as a mission settlement for the landless and homeless slaves released after slavery was abolished in the Cape in 1842. Quaint houses, a 160 year-old church, and oak lined streets form part of a tour given by locals.
One of the oldest passes in the Cape, built in 1854, Helshoogte Pass is also popular with cyclists who regard the ride this pass offers as safe, particularly since the upgrade in 2010. The climb is steep and it is not for the faint hearted, but the views from the top are well worth the effort and downhill is obviously a lot easier.
You can join the R310 either from Stellenbosch, or from the R45 that links Stellenbosch with Paarl.
Need to Know
WhereHelshoogte Pass, Stellenbosch to Pniel, Cape Winelands, Western Cape, South Africa
WhenBest during daylight hours.
OvernightStay in Cape Winelands Accommodation, Western Cape
Disclaimer
Please note, business details can change. While we endeavour to ensure all information provided by the service provider is correct at the time of publication, we do not assume any liability caused by errors or changes, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described, before making any travel plans.
Feedback?
If this is your attraction, you can let us know if anything on this page is outdated or contains inaccuracies, by email. We regret, we do not have any other information, please contact the provider if you have questions.
Additional Reading
You might also be interested inAttractions near Pniel
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options in Cape Winelands
Boschendal Farm Estate
The accommodation at Boschendal Farm Estate comprises of a number of historical cottages that have been renovated to offer guests an opportunity ...
Lumley's Place B&B
Lumley's Place B&B is in a safe, quiet setting with breath-taking mountain & valley views. Relax in one of our four-star rated bedrooms. Our sinc...
Nooitgedacht Cottages
The Nooitgedacht Cottages are farm cottages set on the Nooitgedacht Estate, a tranquil retreat in the heart of Stellenbosch. Tucked away amidst t...
Belmonte Guesthouse
Belmonte Guesthouse is situated against the slopes of Paarl Mountain and although in the centre of town, we are on eight hectares of land with ou...
Lauradale Accommodation
Situated on a two hectare property just outside Stellenbosch, Lauradale Accommodation offers upmarket accommodation with self catering facilities...
Farm Sanctuary SA
Neighbourgood Farm Sanctuary has a number of accommodation options available on the Sanctuary property. All of the accommodation features a priva...
Victorian Villa
For those who appreciate beautiful things, this delightful house will be sure to impress. The Victorian Villa was built in 1814 in the Cape Dutch...
The Belmont
The Belmont is a stone's throw from the centre of the famous Franschhoek village, offering close proximity to the fun and bustle of the main stre...
Things to do in the area
Delaire Graff Estate
Situated on Botmaskop Peak along the Helshoogte Pass and once served as a lookout point for ships sailing into Table Bay Harbour. Farmers could s...
Winelands Exclusive E-Bike Experience
The electric bike tours with E-lectric Ventures promise an unforgettable way to experience the Winelands of the Western Cape with the fresh air o...
Alluvia Winery
Nestled amidst the breathtaking Cape Winelands, Alluvia Wine Estate is more than just a winery. It's a captivating destination where luxury meets...
Bartinney Cellars
Once described as the most beautiful valley on earth by a Harrods Director who first established the estate in 1920. The Manor House speaks of a ...
Camberley Wines
Camberley is a small winery along the Helshoogte pass beneath the Groot Drakenstein Mountains. It was a winery which came about from the winemake...
Le Pommier Wine Estate
Le Pommier meaning ‘The Apple Tree' in French is situated on the 300 year old Zorgvliet farm and used to be an apple orchard. The farm was first ...
Oldenburg Vineyards
Adrian Vanderspuy purchased Oldenburg Vineyards in 2003 which was originally a working fruit farm and with whom his grandmothers both had past co...
Rainbow's End Wine Estate
After driving off the beaten track and enjoying breathtaking views of Banghoek Valley and slopes of Jonkershoek Mountain, you will totally unders...
Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy
Amongst the many wine estates in the region lies the Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy. Renosterveld is a threatened type of vegetative ha...
Accommodation convenient to Helshoogte Pass
FIND / South Africa Accommodation / Western Cape Accommodation / Cape Town Accommodation / Cape Winelands Accommodation