Duck parade at Vergenoegd

Vergenoegd vineyards are located just off the N2 highway along the R310, and have been using Runner ducks for the last 30 years to assist in the control of the snail and pest population in the vineyards.  Vergenoegd have created an opportunity to showcase this special workforce of just over a 1000 ducks in a stylish parade passed the Manor house.

Runner ducks parade under the watchful eye of the flagmen

Flagmen orientate the ducks around the Manor house and back to their pen in a friendly and controlled way so that all visitors can enjoy the treat which lasts only a few minutes but certainly worth the effort at the beginning of your trip to the wine region.

I recommend you consider following the ducks towards their pen and spend around 20 minutes with one of the duck farmers on a tour of the breeding centre.

Incubators for the duck eggs

The duck farmer went to great lengths to explain the total care involved with duck breeding programme and the day-to-day looking after the new chicks.

Newly hatched duck

As the duck farmer opened up the incubator to check on the status of the eggs a newly hatched chick emerged and placed with the other new-borns.

You will not be in any hurry to leave Vergenoegd when you see all the other activities offered, wine tasting, wine blending, olive oil blending and tea and coffee blending.

The Duck parades are Monday - Friday at 9.45am, 12.30pm and 15.30pm.  Saturdays, Sundays & public holidays at 10am, 12.30pm and 15.30pm

On Saturdays they have a food lovers market in the grounds