The Winelands Guide

The Cape Winelands are located just an hour North East of Cape Town, this vast expanse of beautiful countryside produces much of the countries premium wines. Surrounded by vast valleys, jagged mountains and enormous fruit orchards, vineyards and wineries, The Winelands are worth a visit whether you enjoy wine or not.

The Cape Winelands produce many fine wines which are found in restaurants, shops and bars around the world. The towns and villages of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek are world famous for their divine red and white wines brandies, ports and sherries. These quaint villages are home to historic Cape Dutch homesteads, beautiful monuments and beautiful scenery. Not only do the Cape Winelands offer fine wine and beautiful town and villages, it is also home to some of South Africa’s finest restaurants. There are also many beautiful walks that can be done through the mountains and valleys and other activities include horse riding through the vineyards and valleys and tours by Segway can also be arranged.

Franschhoek is a traditional French town and is considered to be the ‘food capital’ of South Africa, home to 8 of the top 100 restaurants in the country. Franschhoek features 30 wine cellars and is the main producer of Cap Classique a premium South Africa sparkling wine and is home to a wonderful selection of art galleries, coffee shops, antique shops and specialty wine sales shops.

For the more active, why not try one of the hiking trails around the surrounding mountains. Paarl is renowned for its Victorian, Cape Dutch and Georgian buildings and is home to the oldest Dutch Reformed Church in the country – the Strooidak Church – and also the Paarl Museum. Not only does this unusual town offer beautiful vineyards and cellars, but it also the main producer of popular wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, Shiraz, Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc.

Stellenbosch is surrounded by the Stellenbosch Mountains and overlooks the Jonkershoek River Valley and is one of the most picturesque settings in the Western Cape. Stellenbosch is the second oldest city in South Africa, fondly known as Eikstad or ‘City of Oaks’ the streets are lined with tall oaks and are dotted with cosmopolitan restaurants and eateries. The Cape Wine Academy offers tours through the vineyards, cellars and finishes with wine tasting.