Niel Jonker

Hands-on workshop in Baardskeerdersbos

THE SOURDOUGH BREAD MAKING EXPERIENCE:

This fun yet thorough workshop emphasizes the benefits of slow fermentation, wholegrain ingredients, and process consciousness.An advanced understanding of bread-making’s core principles are covered while apprenticing in a fully functional artisan bake-house. Novices and experienced bakers are catered for equally.Group bookings only, but where there is space individuals can tag along with another group.

Best dates to consider are the following, since we then get to experience the Stanford Sunset Market as well:

Friday, Saturday 26, 27 September 2025

Friday, Saturday 31 October, 1 November 2025

Friday, Saturday 28, 29 November 2025

The venue is on my stoep in Baardskeerdersbos, a little hamlet about two hours from Cape Town. The brick oven (3x2m) on the stoep is generous, yet there is limited space in the bakehouse.The rate is R2500 and a 50% deposit is required at least 14 days in advance.Bank details: N. Jonker Nedbank Branch 198765 Account 1626010331 Ref. Name and worksop dateEmail proof of payment to:jonkerniel@gmail.com

Upon confirmation you will receive notes that are best studied before the workshop, while practicing any basic baking. Bake simple recipes at home and experiment in order to benefit from and enjoy the workshop optimally. If you have taken part in some of my online classes or the Sourdough course, this will be a revision of that material plus learning about the wood-fired process and more hands-on experience while eating and having a good time out.

Confucius said :

‘I hear, and I forget

I see, and I remember

I do, and I understand.’

Those not wishing to rush off will not be disappointed by the many remote and unpopulated beaches of this unspoiled coastline.Other nature-based experiences in the area over the weekend include hiking, trail runs, mountain biking, etc. as well as the Stanford and Elim wine routes (some may be temporarily closed).Please note there is no ATM in the village. Petrol and diesel is available at the general dealer.How to get there:Drive the tarred R43 via Gansbaai or Bredasdorp. Don’t just trust Google maps that takes one on a seemingly endless (yet scenic) gravel route.

Accommodation:

In Baardskeerdersbos village, private self-catering cottages within a short walking distance:

Eva’s garden room, 071 644 4001Whistling winds farm cottage, 0723484312Suikerbekkiestraat, Anneri, 0798021385Tiny Forest, Stanley, 0828835793Blou huis, Maarten, 0726154661

Near Baardskeerdersbos, safe and in nature, private self-catering units a short drive away:Murasie, Leana 0723413822, info@murasie.comPlatbos forest camp, 0769233349Rusthof gasteplaas, Christa 0823007294 langenhovenchrista@gmail.com,Tierfontein rondawel, Liz ,083 306 8882, tierfontein@gmail.comElna, Uilkraalsvalei, 072 600 1021

Coastal, within 30 minutes:Whalehuys, De Kelders , Bruce 0738716723, whalehuys@gmail.comPearly Beach is close too, although on a gravel road. And the Franskraal to De Kelders have plenty of Airbnb ‘s.