The Cape Winelands

A 45-minute drive only from Cape Town will take us to the Winelands where splendid mountains form a dramatic backdrop to lush vineyards and gabled Cape Dutch homesteads steeped in history. Scenic drives will take you through the hospitality and beauty of the Constantia, Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek wine areas where you will have the chance to combine wine tastings, cellar tours and gourmet experiences.

Noble varieties which have been cultivated increasingly in the Cape Winelands during the past few years include Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Riesling, Viognier which produce top-class white wines. Red wines include Cabernet Sauvignn, Merlot, cabernet Franc, Shiraz, Pinot Noir and the most well known local crossings, Pinotage, a hybrid of Pinot Noir and Hermitage (Cinsaut).

A winemaking tradition and history dating back more than 300 years blends the restrained elegance of the Old World with the accessible fruit-driven styles of the New, making for wines which eloquently express the unique terroir of the Cape. No wonder that this extraordinary wealth of natural assets and tradition should instil South Africa’s wines, of unique character and complexity, with a true sense of place.

Cape Winelands regions

Constantia

The verdant Constantia valley is the oldest, most enduring vineyard region in the Cape, first producing wine in 1689. Constantia sweet wines were prized throughout Europe by the leaders, including the Emperor Napoléon and aristocracy of the 18th century. Today Constantia valley is highly regarded for the quality of its white wines.

Stellenbosch

Founded in 1679, Stellenbosch is the oldest town in the country after Cape Town. Undoubtedly one of the most scenic and historically-preserved towns in southern Africa, Stellenbosch is ideally situated in a magnificent mountain valley, boasts a mild Mediterranean climate and is the ideal destination from which to explore the Cape Winelands.

Paarl

Only 56 km from Cape Town, Paarl offers historical charm, culture, architectural heritage, wine and fruit farms, breathtaking scenery and many cycling and nature trails. Major attractions include Paarl Mountain (one of the largest solid rocks in the world), the Afrikaans Language Monument and a treasure house of architecture found along the 2 km stretch of the Main Street.

Franschhoek

“The culinary capital of the Western Cape” Franschhoek, which means “French Corner”, is well known for its excellent restaurants, top accommodation establishments, splendid mountains and openhearted hospitality. Spend time browsing its many arts-and-craft shops, galleries, antique stores and don’t forget to taste the traditionnal Cap Classique method, the equivalent of the French Champagne!

 The Cape Winelands are situated quite close to the coast and are found mainly within large valleys surrounded by impressive rocky mountain ranges. With its magnificent history and world famous wines, a visit to the Cape would simply not be complete without experiencing the tranquil beauty of the Cape Winelands.