Why a winelands visit is a must this summer
Along with world-class wines, the Cape’s wine routes deliver picturesque landscape settings, astounding architecture and generous hospitality. Which is why the winelands sit at the top of summer’s bucket list.
With an astounding 529 wineries stretching from Constantia to Stellenbosch to Franschhoek and Paarl, you’re truly spoiled for choice. And the more forward-thinking wineries have become expansive lifestyle destinations in their own right, offering not only a cellar experience, but also on-site restaurants, spas, boutiques, and other delights, all at one venue.
Taking a closer look, you’ll find the Stellenbosch Wine Route only 45-minutes’ drive from Cape Town. It is one of the country’s most historic and recognized wine routes in the world and home to many of South Africa’s most prestigious wineries.
For a unique red wine tasting experience, look no further than De Toren Private Cellar, located on the Polkadraai Hills. With a global reputation for excellence, De Toren is home to award-winning red blends, magnificent ocean-facing views and stunning estate experiences. There’s an array of exclusive offerings to choose from, including private, guided vineyard and cellar tours, and tastings.
Explore outside the borders of Stellenbosch by taking a Franschhoek Wine Tram trip with your nearest and dearest. Make sure to hop off the tram at Le Lude for an elegant flute of South Africa’s finest Méthode Cap Classique. The ultimate way to welcome the new season in style.
Franschhoek holds the title as South Africa’s culinary capital, but Stellenbosch boasts more than its fair share of top-rated restaurants and exceptional culinary gems. Top picks in and around the winelands are Le coin Francais, La Petite Colombe, Reuben’s, Overture, The Fat Butcher and Ember Meat Room. One thing they all have in common is their passion for South African wines which becomes quite evident when exploring the wine lists or their gastronomic food pairing menus. Each restaurant promises an unforgettable South African dining experience.
Summer’s fabulous outdoor weather calls for a good old market. Stock up on fresh, organic and seasonal ingredients, catch up with friends or family and appreciate the finer arts and local craftsmanship. If you are an early bird, make sure to stop by the Blaauwklippen Family Market on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Or, if you prefer to sleep in, not to worry, there are plenty of night markets to choose from. Be on the lookout for the Friday Night Market at Boschendal and The Friday Twilight Market at Lourensford which is also open on Saturdays and Sundays.
Continuing to take advantage of the great outdoor options, why not stop by the Dylan Lewis Studio and Sculpture Garden? Located between two worlds, one wild and one tamed, the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden borders the manicured suburbs of Stellenbosch and a rugged mountain wilderness where leopards still roam.
No matter what the season, one can never get the day fully started without a good cup of coffee. Deluxe Coffeeworks, based in Stellenbosch, and Terbodore Coffee Roasters in Franschhoek, are both destinations you do not want to miss. They roast and supply single-origin beans and boast renowned house blends. A definite must taste this season!
We’ve named but a few of the enticing, world-class destinations the winelands have to offer… One thing they all have in common is their passion for welcoming you as their guests. It’s time to explore!
Image credit: Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden Copyright Pardus Fine Art CC – Credit Elsa Young 1 (LR)
