For those who relish the world of mushrooms and embrace the wonders of nature, an immersive weekend dedicated to foraging for wild mushrooms awaits at Delheim Wine Estate. Nestled in the mountainous pine forests of Delheim, which house a diverse array of over 20 wild mushroom species, this Stellenbosch gem will host a captivating experience from June 16th to 18th. Enthusiastic foragers, whether novices or experts, are invited to embark on their own mushroom hunts, partake in enlightening workshops led by mushroom aficionados, and delve into the world of these delectable fungi.
Each day’s itinerary encompasses a range of enriching activities, beginning with an insightful tutorial on cultivating mushrooms, led by Alec Scott. As the CEO of The Mushroom Box, Scott is dedicated to equipping individuals with practical insights into home mushroom cultivation and fostering a deep understanding of local mushroom diversity. The daily Grow with Alec sessions, held from 08:45 to 10:00, also offer attendees the chance to purchase their very own Mushroom Box for initiating their home cultivation endeavors. The session fee is R250 per person and includes coffee or gluhwein and rusks; the cost of The Mushroom Box (R150 each) is not included.
Subsequent to the cultivation workshop, a stimulating foraging experience awaits. Led by Gary Goldman, this guided exploration commences at 10:15 and extends until 13:00. Attendees will venture into Delheim’s enchanting pine forest hills, accompanied by Goldman’s expert guidance, to uncover a variety of wild mushrooms, including treasures like porcini, pine bolete, and the renowned pine rings (also known as the chicken of the woods). Though the presence of specific mushrooms cannot be guaranteed, Goldman’s practical insights are sure to enhance the discovery process. Participants are advised to prepare for potentially chilly weather by donning a rain jacket, sturdy walking or hiking boots, and bringing a basket and a small pocket knife. The foraging experience is priced at R450 per person and includes a comforting glass of gluhwein or coffee to warm spirits before embarking on the woodland exploration.
As the day unfolds, participants are invited to delve into the captivating realm of Magic and Medicinal Mushrooms through a talk hosted by Andrew Killian, a dedicated mushroom enthusiast with a special focus on their health-enhancing and medicinal attributes. From 15:00 to 16:30, Killian’s presentation promises to cover a spectrum of intriguing topics:
- The diverse applications of medicinal mushrooms.
- Insights into toxic mushrooms and their effects.
- Guidelines for accurately photographing mushrooms for identification on social media.
- A deep dive into Magic Mushrooms, encompassing historical use, medicinal applications, and identification techniques.
This captivating talk is priced at R250 per person and includes a choice of coffee or a glass of wine. Notably, availability for each workshop is limited, and tickets can be secured through Quicket.
Throughout the event, Delheim’s restaurant will remain open, offering delectable breakfast and lunch options, including a variety of mushroom-inspired dishes. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to savor the estate’s acclaimed selection of wines, contributing to an all-encompassing experience that melds culinary delight, educational exploration, and the serene beauty of Delheim’s surroundings. For a truly immersive experience, booking in advance through Quicket is essential, ensuring a seamless and enchanting encounter with the world of mushrooms and nature’s wonders.