Misty peaks, rolling hills, grand manor houses and sunny skies – the Cape Winelands is a remarkable area to visit, and that’s before you set foot in one of the world-class wineries or restaurants. You will need a vehicle (and ideally a driver) to visit the vineyards, as they are scattered among the towns of the Winelands, which begin 30km east of Cape Town.
Don’t forget to take some time to explore the towns themselves – most have quaint historic quarters and more than a few culinary gems. Best of all, wine tasting is an affordable activity in South Africa, even for travelers on a tight budget.
Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch, the grand dam of towns in the Cape Winelands, is home to more than 100 wineries in the unspoiled setting. It can be hard to pick just a few, but try the following. Warwick for his lavish picnic on the lawn; And the spare, admittedly commercial but still highly recommended for its Segway tours, Bird of Prey shows, farm tours, craft market, spa and, of course, wine tasting. There are plenty of options for the family, but for something truly relaxing, head to this one. Heysendel, where staff take children on a two-hour science, nature and technology experience in a futuristic wonderdale while parents can chill in the deli or sip in the wine lounge. For fine dining, try the beautiful Jordan Estate west of town or the winery’s sister restaurant, Jardine, in the town centre. The town itself is worth exploring – don’t miss the wonderful museum with four period houses, the small but beautiful botanical garden, and the many good restaurants in and around the Church St. Louis.
Franschhoek
There is undeniably something to love about Franschhoek. The long approach road is lined with beautiful wine estates, while the town itself is full of excellent restaurants, each an easy stroll away. Don’t leave out the plants, where forage ingredients from the Valley take center stage. The town’s atmosphere at the foot of the mountains is charming, and if you have time, Franschhoek Pass is a worthwhile drive before hanging up the car keys and hitting the wineries. The best way to get around is on the Franschhoek Wine Tram, which shuttles sippers between a dozen or so wine estates. Some of the best include regal Grand Provence, La Motte with its top-notch wines and restaurants, and the ever-popular Bosendal, perfect on sunny days when you can sip under the giant trees. Franschhoek also boasts a ragged beer route: try it. Hey Joe Brewing Company For Belgian ales, Franschhoek Beer Company For a family-friendly pit stop or Soul Barrel Brewing Company For some unique barrel-aged beers.
Parl
Sometimes considered the ugly sister of the Winelands, it’s true that Paarl town center doesn’t have quite as much going for it as Stellenbosch or Franschhoek, not least because it’s so spread out. That said, a visit to KWV, just off the main road, is a must for one of its wine pairings – chocolate, cake, cheesecake or Biltong (a dry, spicy meat snack). The city’s nature reserve is also worth a visit. Perched on a hill above the town, the reserve has some delightful day hikes and biking trails, providing a welcome opportunity to work up to the winelands famous tasting and sumptuous lunch. You’ll definitely need to work up an appetite before heading to the Spice Route, one of the region’s most popular attractions. Here artisan producers make charcuterie, ice cream, chocolate, wine and beer, offering tastings of every product on the menu. Just off the tour bus track is Avondale, a biodynamic farm with charming vineyard tours and an excellent restaurant.
Talbagh
Located in the Witzenberg Mountains, about 90 minutes from Cape Town, Talbagh is known for two things: Champagne-style wines and a street chock-a-block with historical monuments. An early morning walk down Church St is a great way to start a trip to Tallaght. It is an open museum, with each monument having its own explanatory plaque. Once the midday heat sets in – and the city gets really hot in the summer – retreat to a winery a short walk from the centre. Of the rich There is a no-fills taproom with some excellent red wines, while Montpelier Offers cheese plates and tastings under the trees outside the old manor house. When you’re near the mountains, drop in for some bubbles and try your hand at Toy Jong Gazelle. Demolish, Destroy – Opening the bottle of MCC (The classic cap method – local term for Champagne-style wine) with a sword. To the right of the mountains are the Oakhurst olives, a different variety to taste.
Robertson
The Robertson Winery is a two-hour drive from Cape Town, so while it’s doable as a day trip, it’s even better for a weekend getaway. The town itself is only worth a quick look, but is dotted with refreshingly unique wineries, many of which sit along the banks of the Brady River. A great way to experience the river is to launch an hour-long cruise from Viljoensdrift. Get there early for a free tasting and buy a bottle and picnic to take with you on the ride. For relaxed sipping, beautiful Springfield has no restaurants, activities or children’s areas – just some great wines to enjoy in peace by the river. The region is also full of family-friendly wineries – try Excelsior or Van Loveren with its kid-focused lunch option for juice and candy tasting. If you’re sticking around for more than a day, make a quick detour to small-town cute MacGregor for a few gourmet treats.