The Jonkershoek Valley
The Jonkershoek Valley
The Jonkershoek Valley lies approximately 10 kilometres south-east of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape. It forms part of the larger Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, which also includes the smaller Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve, together covering around 11,000 hectares.
The name Jonkershoek dates back to the late 1600s. It is derived from Jan Andriessen, also known as Jan de Jonkheer, who received one of the first land grants in the area from Governor Simon van der Stel. He named the land Jonkershoek, meaning “the young lord’s corner” in Dutch.
This area is renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery, biodiversity, hiking opportunities, and rich historical and cultural heritage.
This protected area is managed by CapeNature and is a favourite for hiking, walking, mountain biking, and scenic drives. Trails vary in difficulty and length, offering something for casual walkers and serious hikers alike.
The Jonkershoek Valley is in the heart of the Boland Mountains, a subrange of the Cape Fold Belt. The Jonkershoek Mountains, with their steep slopes and deep ravines, dominate the landscape. The region receives some of the highest rainfall in South Africa, especially during winter. The Eerste River—the only one flowing through the valley originates here, while nearby ranges are the source of other rivers such as the Berg River, the Lourens River, and Riviersonderend..
The lower reaches of the Jonkershoek Valley are part of the Stellenbosch Wine Route. These fertile areas are known for their vineyards and wine estates
A lesser-known aspect of the history of the Jonkershoek Valley is that much of the land was owned by freed slaves during the late 17th century. In 1692, under Governor van der Stel, several free black men of Asian and African descent were granted farmland in the valley. Notable figures include Manuel and Antonie of Angola, and Louis of Bengal, who received land near what is now Lanzerac Estate.
Nearby, land was also granted to Jan and Marquard of Ceylon. Jan of Ceylon married Lysbeth Jansz, a fellow free black woman, who raised a family in the valley. These people actively farmed, participated in the local economy, and were recorded as official landowners. Some, following the norms of the time, also owned slaves.
However, by the early 1700s, much of this land changed hands: After the death of Antonie of Angola in 1696, his property was taken over by Isaac Schrijver, a Dutch military officer. Other properties were sold or absorbed into larger European-owned farms
