Cape Winelands

1. Superlative Dining Experiences

One thing about the Cape Winelands that you can count on is sensational dining experiences. Franschhoek in particular is not only known as the Cape's ‘French Corner', but also its culinary capital. A high concentration of award-winning restaurants dot the area and nearby Stellenbosch, practically overflowing with options from decadent dining to top rated fine dining establishments. The same can be said for the Constantia side of the Cape Winelands, albeit with more select options.

2. Enjoy the Ultimate Romantic Getaway

Nothing says romance quite like sprawling vineyards, verdant valleys, and a taste for the finer things in life. Spend a wholesome weekend in the outer winelands soaking in the views, walking through quaint streets hand in hand, and realising there's simply no rush when romance is involved. Embrace the relaxed atmosphere of small town life and enjoy things as they strike your fancy or ready yourselves for adventure and excitement mixed with a good dose of decadence.

3. Heed Adventures’ Call

While there's a certain luxury in sitting back, relaxing, and sampling some world-class wines, for those who desire a side of adventure, there's a Cape Winelands experience for that. Franschhoek, for example, is a prime example with its iconic Wine Tram, an enchanting tram system ferrying guests from farm to farm on various routes to experience the crème de la crème of the region's wineries.

4. Say ‘I Do’ In The Vineyards

We can't imagine a more romantic place to say “I do” than in the midst of rolling vines, lush greenery, and breathtaking mountainous backdrops. The Cape Town Winelands are home to a spectacular array of venues – from beautiful boutique spots and sprawling lawns to historical Cape Dutch architecture and modern luxury. As many of the venues also have wonderful accommodation options, spend a magical weekend away celebrating with loved ones. From there, visit Cape Town or venture further afield along the Garden Route, on an adventurous safari, or to one of Africa's exceptional beaches for a honeymoon.

Franschhoek: Award-Winning Restaurants, Magnificent Setting

Set against a backdrop of orchards, vineyards and mountain peaks, the little town of Franschhoek (‘French Corner’) is arguably the prettiest of the Cape Winelands regions. The appearance and atmosphere are that of Provence, and the mood is further reflected by elegant wine estates such as Le Petite Ferme, Chamonix and Mont Rochelle – their names testament to the early French Huguenot influence in the area.

Franschhoek has just one main street but it is lined with art galleries, boutique shops and a number of excellent restaurants. Known as the gourmet capital of South Africa, Franschhoek is a top choice for a food and wine holiday; dine on flavours ranging from traditional Cape fare to French haute cuisine – and the accompanying wine will of course come from the vineyards around you.

Stellenbosch: Classic Old Cape Town, Wide Choice of Wine Estates

The second oldest settlement in South Africa after Cape Town, Stellenbosch is famous as the capital of the Cape Winelands – indeed, there are a staggering 200 wine estates in the immediate area! Many of these farms are open to the public and have daily wine tours and tastings, not to mention restaurants with vineyard views or picnic baskets to be enjoyed on their expansive lawns.

Don't forget the town itself – Stellenbosch is the perfect place to wander around on foot and you can do a little shopping before enjoying a meal in the shade of its famous 300-year-old oak trees. Head for Dorp Street, the historic heart of the town and a national monument, thanks to its grand display of old Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian buildings. Meanwhile, the famous Stellenbosch University adds a lively atmosphere to the town, its students filling the many bars and sidewalk cafés.

Constantia: The Cape's Oldest Winelands

Most visitors to Cape Town never suspect what sits on the cooler, wetter south-eastern slopes of Table Mountain: just a half-hour drive from the city centre will take you to the exclusive suburb of Constantia, home to palatial houses set on sprawling green lawns, imposing ambassadorial residences and expansive vineyards.

This area was first cultivated in 1685, making the Constantia Wine Valley the Cape's oldest wine-producing region. Visit Groot Constantia and Klein Constantia, both grand old estates with classic Cape Dutch architecture and offering plenty of opportunities to taste their excellent wine and gourmet food. Enjoy a round of golf, explore Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, go hiking on one of the many nearby mountain trails, or hit the beach – it’s not far to either the Indian Ocean of False Bay or the colder waters of the Atlantic.

Route 62: Good-Value Wine Farms, Amazing Scenery

Not only is Route 62 one of South Africa’s most scenic drives but it is also the world’s longest wine route. Starting about an hour’s drive out of Cape Town, Route 62 runs through vineyard-sprinkled valleys, over dramatic mountain scenery and past sleepy farming towns before entering the Karoo, the great expanse of semi-desert that covers much of the Western Cape’s interior.

Our favourite wine stop on Route 62 is the Robertson Valley, home to more than 50 estates and boasting big names such as Springfield, Graham Beck and Bon Courage. This valley is also where to go in the Cape Winelands for outdoor activities ranging from vigorous hikes in the local Langeberg Mountains to lazy river cruises complete with a packed picnic basket and (of course) a chilled bottle of wine.

Hemel-en-Aarde Valley: Peaceful Valley, Close to the Sea

Set just outside the seaside town of Hermanus, the scenic Hemel-en-Aarde Valley benefits from cool ocean breezes which create perfect growing conditions for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines. Little-visited and well off the main wine route, this region has a relaxed, casual atmosphere so take your time, soak up the ocean and mountain views, taste award-winning wines, and have a late lunch on one of the estates.

We'd particularly recommend visiting the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley during the July to November whale season and rounding off your time in the vineyards with a stay in Hermanus on the Whale Coast – home to the best land-based whale watching in the world.

Riebeek Kasteel: Olives, Wine & Cheese, Art Galleries & Cafes

One of the oldest towns in South Africa and only an hour's drive from Cape Town, Riebeek Kasteel lies at the heart of the Swartberg, a tranquil farming region that is home to rolling wheat fields punctuated by fruit and olive plantations. But it is the vineyards of the Riebeek Valley and in particular the many excellent red wines they produce, that have put this otherwise rather sleepy town on the map.

Riebeek Kasteel is the perfect spot to head for a day excursion from Cape Town. Chat with the friendly locals, sample some local wine, olives and cheeses, and spend an afternoon exploring the shops, cafes, art galleries and restaurants in the town centre.

Paarl: Wine & Food Pairing, Historic Monuments

The Paarl Wine Route is renowned for its award-winning reds and is especially appealing if you're looking for something a little extra to accompany your wine tasting. Visit the Fairview Estate for wine pairing with their famous cheeses; learn about organic and bio-dynamic wine farming practices on the Avondale Estate; or try the brandy and chocolate tasting at KWV before a tour of their famous Cathedral Cellar – the largest cooperative wine cellar in the world.

The name Paarl means pearl in Dutch and refers to the massive granite outcrop that towers over the town – said to glow like a pearl at sunrise. Originally an agricultural town and heavily dependent on the wine industry, Paarl has reinvented itself as a place of cosy bistros and fine cuisine. Although still not quite as attractive as Franschhoek or Stellenbosch, a walk along Paarl’s main road will take you past worth-a-browse antique shops, beautiful old buildings, national monuments and lively restaurants.

Visiting the Cape Winelands from January to March

January is a busy time of year to explore this area as it's just after the Christmas holidays and right in the middle of summer. This is the best time to visit the Cape Winelands in South Africa for guaranteed sunshine, pleasant evenings, and most importantly the opportunity to visit wine estates that are some of the oldest and most prestigious in the country (some dating back to 1690).

February is the one of the best times to go to the Cape Winelands because of the balmy summer weather. It can get very hot during this period, especially in the inland areas, but these conditions are perfect for enjoying a chilled glass of dry white surrounded by award-winning vineyards.

Harvest season begins in March and is an ideal time to experience South African wine country. The days are warm and there is little to no wind during this month. With a myriad of world-class wine estates to choose from, you can also peruse some of the country's premier art galleries.

Visiting the Cape Winelands from April to August

April & May are the autumn months in the Cape, the days start to become cooler and there is a chance of light rain, but this is still a great time to visit these famed vineyards. The wine estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl and Wellington are far quieter during these months.

June can be a rainy month and there is even a chance of some snow in the months ahead. Don't expect heavy snowfall, the mountains surrounding the Cape Winelands is generally just snowcapped for a few days. It creates a romantic ambience, where cold winter afternoons and evenings are spent by a roaring log fire, sipping local vintages.

July & August are cold winter months for South Africa, but there is never not a good time for wine tasting. There are numerous festivals during these months that are held annually like ‘Taste the Helderberg' in Stellenbosch, or the ‘Robertson Slow Food and Wine Festival'. There is always a reason to celebrate in wine country.

Visiting the Cape Winelands from September to December

September is the first month of spring in the country and it is the best time to visit the Cape Winelands if you're looking to avoid the crowds before the busy summer season. Both September and October experience pleasant temperatures during the day, but not the extreme heat of summer. It can still be a little cooler in the evenings.

November right through to January keeps the wine estates busy with both tourists and locals. It's considered the best time to visit the Cape Winelands because the small towns that feature classic Cape Dutch architecture are taking full advantage of the sunshine and clear, blue skies.

December is a busy month; the days are generally hot, the heat stretching well into the evening. It's best to book in advance for wine tastings and food pairings – be prepared for a more bustling Cape Winelands. Rates on accommodation tend to be higher at this time of year.

Flights & Getting Around

Cape Town International Airport: it’s only an hour’s drive from the airport to the heart of the Cape Winelands.

The classic Cape Wineland towns of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek are easily accessed by regular half-day and full-day tours conducted in modern mini buses or sedan cars. These tours begin in Cape Town and can be arranged with the minimum of fuss from your accommodation or before you arrive.

Alternatively, hire a car and tour the Winelands at your own pace – the roads are good, it’s all well signposted and the scenery is amazing. Take the opportunity to stroll around these historic towns on foot – Stellenbosch is particularly rewarding.

Drivers & Guides

Perhaps the best way to enjoy a Cape Winelands holiday is to hire a driver or personal guide: they know their way around, only stop at estates that interest you, and – best of all – everyone in your party can enjoy wine tastings safe in the knowledge that there is a designated driver. There are also fantastic group tours for those who have an interest in finding out more about the area, its history, and the culture in the area – as well as its good food and wine scene, of course.

There’s An App For That

When it comes to restaurants, many of the Cape's establishments have moved over to Dineplan in order to make and confirm reservations. While it is known to work through a browser too, the app makes it easier to make bookings and discover which restaurants are available for your desired dates.

We also recommend downloading the Platter's iPhone App. This digital version of South Africa's most comprehensive wine guide gives you easy access to tasting notes, trusted ratings and producer notes on over 7 000 South African wines.

Exciting Events

Throughout the year, there are some great events and festivals held in the winelands – ones worth planning a long weekend around. One of the biggest events being Bastille Day, which takes place on 14 July each year to commemorate the storming of the Bastille in Paris in 1789. As the Cape's ‘French corner' this results in a fantastic festival each year celebrating food, wine, and heritage.

In November, the annual Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne Festival promises a wonderful day experiencing world-class wines and bubbles from local producers featuring live music. Take advantage of the gourmet foods on offer and simply soak in the scenery.

For a more low-key event in the southern Cape Winelands, venture to Cape Point Vineyards in Noordhoek for their Thursday evening Community Market. Artisanal delights, delicious food and fruity wines await as you watch the sun sink below the horizon. The event is family-friendly and fun for all.

Family-friendly Activities

Along with hiking, cycling, picnics and horse riding, there's plenty of must-do activities in the Cape Winelands that will be a big hit with your children: try the Birds of Prey Project at Eagle Encounters at Spier in Stellenbosch; Butterfly World, just outside Paarl; and the Cheetah Outreach Programme at its new home in Somerset West.

Recommended Cape Winelands Tours & Safari Holidays

From $23,515 to $25,745 pps

Romantic Cape, Whale Coast & Kalahari

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Explore the attractions of Cape Town like Table Mountain & Cape Point. Explore magnificent estates and sip excellent wines on a winelands tour.

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Romantic Cape, Kruger & KwaZulu-Natal

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Explore the many wonders of Cape Town. Discover splendid art at a top wine estate.

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Exclusive Cape Town, Winelands & Kruger Luxury

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Stay at the heart of the V&A Waterfront at one of our favourite hotels. A combination of hand-picked exclusive properties.

Destinations visited

From $7,200 to $8,215 pps

Family Cape Town, Winelands & Kruger

Highlights

Explore the city & surrounds at your own pace. Drink in the beauty of the Cape Winelands.

Destinations visited

From $22,135 to $30,710 pps

Family Cape Town, Winelands & Garden Route

Highlights

Full-day family fun tour in Franschhoek. Explore Cape Town & the scenic Winelands.

Destinations visited

From $23,515 to $25,745 pps

Romantic Cape, Whale Coast & Kalahari

Highlights

Explore the attractions of Cape Town like Table Mountain & Cape Point. Explore magnificent estates and sip excellent wines on a winelands tour.

Destinations visited

From $14,285 to $15,510 pps

Romantic Cape, Kruger & KwaZulu-Natal

Highlights

Explore the many wonders of Cape Town. Discover splendid art at a top wine estate.

Destinations visited

From $15,305 to $18,075 pps

Exclusive Cape Town, Winelands & Kruger Luxury

Highlights

Stay at the heart of the V&A Waterfront at one of our favourite hotels. A combination of hand-picked exclusive properties.

Destinations visited

From $7,200 to $8,215 pps

Family Cape Town, Winelands & Kruger

Highlights

Explore the city & surrounds at your own pace. Drink in the beauty of the Cape Winelands.

Destinations visited

From $22,135 to $30,710 pps

Family Cape Town, Winelands & Garden Route

Highlights

Full-day family fun tour in Franschhoek. Explore Cape Town & the scenic Winelands.

Destinations visited

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