De Doornkraal Vinotel and Aan’t Vette Wine Estate: Supporting Conservation as Friends of the Biosphere

Heroes, Hessequa

A Heritage of Hospitality: De Doornkraal Vinotel

In Riversdale along the Garden Route, De Doornkraal Vinotel blends historical charm with modern luxury. The boutique hotel, part of the De Doornkraal Aan’t Vette Wine Estate, occupies a main building dating back to 1746, preserving its rich heritage.

Here guests enjoy a range of luxury rooms and cottages, all equipped with en-suite bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and private entrances. The estate is eco-friendly, featuring solar water heating and a garden with a 200-year-old vine.

Dining at the Aan’t Vette Country Kitchen offers fresh regional cuisine paired with estate wines. De Doornkraal also caters to leisure and business visitors, with activities like bird watching, wine tasting, mountain biking, and horseback riding, along with conference facilities in the historic Lodge Frere.

The Art of Winemaking: Aan’t Vette Wine Estate

Aan’t Vette Wine Estate, where the Vette River meanders through the landscape, forms part of De Doornkraal Vinotel. The estate, named after this natural feature, is celebrated for its heritage and fine wines that capture the unique environment.

Winemaking at Aan’t Vette blends tradition with modern sustainability, producing exquisite wines responsibly. Visitors can explore the vineyards, enjoy tastings, and dine at the Aan’t Vette Country Kitchen, pairing local cuisine with the estate’s acclaimed wines.

A Commitment to Conservation: Friends of the Biosphere

The Friends of the Biosphere programme by the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR) supports environmental efforts by connecting local businesses with dedicated individuals and groups. Businesses, called “Heroes,” make monthly donations, which are pooled into a small grants system to fund projects led by “Friends”—the local environmental stewards.

This partnership empowers communities to protect their environment while offering businesses tax benefits, online exposure, and a digital Hero badge, enhancing their reputation and community goodwill.

De Doornkraal Vinotel and Aan’t Vette Wine Estate: A Combined Hero

De Doornkraal Vinotel and Aan’t Vette Wine Estate have recently joined the ranks of Heroes within the Friends of the Biosphere programme, marking a significant milestone in their ongoing commitment to environmental conservation. By aligning themselves with this initiative, they are not only supporting the vital work being done by individuals and groups within their community but also setting an example for others to follow.

Their participation in the Friends of the Biosphere programme underscores their dedication to preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Hessequa region. Through their financial contributions, De Doornkraal and Aan’t Vette are helping to fund projects that will have a lasting impact on the environment, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the pristine landscapes that make this region so special.

Join the Movement Towards a Sustainable Future

The Friends of the Biosphere programme is more than just an initiative; it is a movement towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future. By bringing together local businesses and community-driven environmental projects, it creates a powerful synergy that can drive real, meaningful change. De Doornkraal Vinotel and Aan’t Vette Wine Estate have taken the first step by becoming a combined Hero. Now, they invite others to join them on this journey.

Whether you are a business looking to give back to your community or an individual passionate about making a difference, the Friends of the Biosphere programme offers a platform to contribute to a cause that matters. Together, we can uplift our towns, protect our natural heritage, and create a sustainable future.

Leading the Way in Environmental Guardianship

De Doornkraal Vinotel and Aan’t Vette Wine Estate’s participation in the Friends of the Biosphere programme is a shining example of how businesses can play a crucial role in environmental conservation. Their commitment to sustainability, both in their operations and in their support of local initiatives, demonstrates the power of collective action in creating a better world. As they continue to lead by example, they inspire others to take up the mantle of stewardship, ensuring that the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Hessequa region are preserved for generations to come.