South Africa’s incredible Cape Winelands
The area is known for its wonderful natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and world-renowned wines. Just a 45 minute drive from Cape Town, you will find yourself in the Winelands with its wonderful mountains providing an inspiring backdrop to Cape Dutch’s bountiful vineyards and historic farms.
We recommend that you experience the hospitality and beauty of Stellenbosch, Paarl, Wellington, Franschhoek and Robertson in the Breede River Valley. Stop and visit some of the many wine farms, or perhaps stroll down one of the beautifully restored streets in the historic city centers.
The excellent wines produced in this area are transported all over the world and enjoy a worldwide reputation. The Winelands is an ideal base from which to explore Cape Town and its surroundings. Accommodation in this area caters for all tastes, so indulge yourself in one of the exclusive boutique hotels or enjoy the hospitality of one of the many splendid guesthouses and common bed and breakfast establishments throughout the area.
Constantia wineland
If you contact the Cape Town Tourist Office, it is possible to book a horse-drawn carriage tour of the Constantia vineyards. Along the way you can stop for a snack, take guided tours, or taste at wineries such as Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia, or Buitenverwachting. Remember to spend time at the Old Cape Farm Stall where you can buy fresh produce and gourmet food.
Stellenbosch Wineland
This wine route is the oldest and the largest, with more farms, wineries and cooperatives, as well as wine and cultural museums. You should have plenty of time to explore this area, probably a whole week or several weekends. You can buy a map of the farms on the route at the Information Center in Stellenbosch.
Paarl Wineland
This is South Africa’s second oldest wine trail and offers a self-guided tour of the Backsberg Estate’s historic wineries and brandy stills, but don’t be tempted while they’re staring at you on camera! Alternatively, take a guided tour of KWV’s extensive wineries. Further on the route are Zandwijk, where South Africa’s only kosher wines are made, and Fairview Farm, famous for its cheeses.
Wellington Wineland
This historic route with its museums and ancient churches is the center of this “off the beaten track” route, exemplified by the small family wineries. At Bovlei you can even have your own wine label designed and made for you. North of Wellington is the charming Brian’s Kloof Pass.
Klein karoo wineland
Believe it or not, this is the route to see ostriches and creepers side by side. Viticulture has boosted the economy of this hot and arid region between the Langeberg and Swartberg Mountains, and is practiced on farms around Calitzdorp, Swellendam, Ladismith and Montagu. Don’t miss out on the premium quality flagship ports of the Boplaas Estate.
Franschhoek Wineland
This postcard town is known as the food and wine capital of the world and boasts 8 of the 100 best restaurants in South Africa. The Vignerons de Franschhoek estates, as the producers are known along this French-influenced wine route, are located in a beautiful valley and many have historic houses, such as Boschendal, La Motte and L’Ormarins. If you are short on time, you can always taste the wines of the Franschhoek Vineyard Cooperative at the Franschhoek Wine Tasting Center.
Worcester Wineland
This triangular route runs from Villiersdorp in the south to Woseley and Worcester in the north. Along the way you will discover wineries such as the Brandvlei and Merwida cooperatives. Worcester itself offers many other attractions, such as museums and galleries, and the Karoo National Botanical Garden, located just four kilometers from the city.
Robertson Wineland
The region’s lime-rich soils play an important role in the production of balanced wines from Robertson Wineland, including those from Van Loveren, Weltevrede, Zandvliet and the Rooiberg Cooperative. This mountainous region is covered by hiking trails that are best enjoyed in spring. It is also famous for being the birthplace of some of the best racehorses in the country and a nursery for roses.