ABSA Cape Epic - Wellington

Wellington is hosting Stage 5 and the beginning of Stage 6 of the ABSA Cape Epic.

Part of the Winelands region of the Western Cape. Originally known as Limiet Valley (border or frontier valley), the area became known as Val Du Charron or Wagenmakersvallei (Valley of the wagon maker) towards the end of the 17th century, when the French Huguenots settled here. After the eventual establishment of the town in 1840, the name was changed to Wellington in honour of the Duke of Wellington, renowned soldier and conqueror of Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo.

  Cape Dutch homesteads and exquisite vineyards pay legacy to the Huguenot origins of this town famous for its wines, brandies and vine nurseries thanks to the superior soil and climate of the region. The Wellington Wine Route and Wellington Brandy Route are major attractions offering the visitor more than thirty fine wines and brandies.

Wellington is the base of the oldest mountain pass in the country, Bain’s Kloof Pass, which used to be the only gateway between the Cape and the north. The area is filled with breath taking fynbos as well as olive trees, another draw card for those looking for a non-alcoholic alternative. Wellington boasts two leather factories, producing beautiful and quality leather products such as shoes, handbags, book covers and other smaller articles.