WHERE OLD WORLD MEETS NEW
Beginning with 330 year-old Groot Constantia - literally in the suburbs of Cape Town - the winelands region is one of the most enchanting in the Western Cape. No visit to the Mother City is complete without taking the time to explore at least one of the three major wine routes. The Cape Winelands are a scenically enchanting region of dramatic mountains and fertile valleys, dotted with vineyards, orchards and classic Cape Dutch homesteads where gastronomic delights accompany the splendid wines.
The region offers visitors a delightful combination of small historic towns, beautiful scenery and renowned wine estates that produce both delicious wines and brandies. There are literally hundreds of wine estates to choose from, each offering the chance to sample its unique varietals and blends in a picture-perfect setting. In addition, less than two hours drive from Cape Town, you will find the Aquila Safari Park. Aquila is more than just another luxury (4 star) game reserve and lodge, its primary purpose is to offer an educational experience to all who visit in the hope that this knowledge will enrich our understanding of the importance of living in harmony with nature.
regional travel info for south africa
view sample trips that include Cape Winelands
Cape Winelands highlights
- Enjoy gourmet food and wine at some of the regions excellent restaurants including the 'Delaire Graff Restaurant' headed by executive Chef Christiaan Campbell
- Visit historical Constantia and enjoy its famous 'Vin de Constance' (a favorite of Nelson Mandela's) under the ancient oaks
- Take a leisurely drive through the picturesque towns of Stellenbosch and Paarl - the second and third oldest in South Africa respectively
- Lose yourself in the splendor of the richly-endowed Franschhoek valley - with it's strong sense of French Heugenot heritage, you could be forgiven for thinking you were amongst the lush vineyards of Europe
- Learn about wine appreciation whilst you discover more about local varietals such as Pinotage at one of the many tasting rooms dotted throughout the region
- Discover the art of Brandy distillation at the Van Ryn distillery
- Explore the village museum in Stellenbosch, consisting of four houses from various historical eras, each fully 'decorated' in original period pieces
- Catch a classical concert or opera on the lawns of history-rich Vergelegen, Oude Libertas or Spier estates
- Enjoy a vinotherapy massage or treatment incorporating the astounding restorative properties of grape and wine-derived products
Cape Winelands accomodation
La Residence
La Residence is a Tuscan-influenced Cape Dutch Farmhouse with more than a hint of Louis XV.
