The Cape Winelands area is known for its unsurpassed natural beauty with its mountains, massive vineyards and historic wine estates. The Western Cape is the wine capital of South Africa and is found less than an hour away from Cape Town. Anyone from serious wine buffs to absolute novices will enjoy visiting wine estates, eating at top restaurants and experiencing the culture, history and scenic beauty.
In 1971 the first wine route in South Africa was established, consisting of an organized network of wineries surrounding the old, historic town of Stellenbosch. Today the Stellenbosch Wine Route has five sub-routes and represents many wine producers. The town of Stellenbosch with its streets lined with oak trees and historic buildings is a good place from which to start exploring these routes.
Estates on the various routes offer cellar tours and daily wine tastings. There are those, like Fairview estate on the Paarl route, that offer cheese as well as wine tastings. Fees charged for wine tasting differ from estate to estate and many offer a discount on the tasting if wines are purchased. Customized tours and tutored tastings are available but need to be booked in advance.
Many of the estates have their own restaurants. At these restaurants one can taste a variety of local dishes, including venison, bobotie and snoek. International cuisine is offered too. Day tours usually include a leisurely lunch on one of the estates. Other items like olives, berries, baked goods and organic produce are often available for purchase.
The traditional French town of Franschhoek lies in a valley surrounded by vineyards and mountains. This makes it a good springboard to many wine estates. There are a number of top quality establishments offering accommodation in the area. It is also notable for its restaurants and its main street is lined with both restaurants and coffee shops.
The Paarl Wine Route is another popular route and is home to the largest wine cellar in South Africa, the KWV Wine Emporium. The town of Paarl also offers historical charm, culture and architectural heritage. The old Thatched Roof Church in the main road is one of the oldest in South Africa and is still in use today. Breath-taking scenery and many cycling and nature trails make this a favorite stop for nature lovers and those who enjoy being active.
Any time of the year is a good time to visit. There are regional wine festivals throughout the year, as well as special events and activities organized by wine estates. Take a donkey or horse-and-carriage ride through the vineyards or picnic next to a dam. Enjoy a show at an outdoor amphitheater or a massage at a spa and wellness center. The more active tourist has not been forgotten either with world-class golf courses and numerous cycling, walking and hiking routes.
As the Cape Winelands is an extensive area offering many different experiences, it is important to explore all the options available before making any bookings. It is possible to hire a car or to use a professional tour operator. Alternatively some of the wine routes use shuttle services or hop-on-hop off buses. Whatever means you choose to explore, this stunningly beautiful area is a must see.
In 1971 the first wine route in South Africa was established, consisting of an organized network of wineries surrounding the old, historic town of Stellenbosch. Today the Stellenbosch Wine Route has five sub-routes and represents many wine producers. The town of Stellenbosch with its streets lined with oak trees and historic buildings is a good place from which to start exploring these routes.
Estates on the various routes offer cellar tours and daily wine tastings. There are those, like Fairview estate on the Paarl route, that offer cheese as well as wine tastings. Fees charged for wine tasting differ from estate to estate and many offer a discount on the tasting if wines are purchased. Customized tours and tutored tastings are available but need to be booked in advance.
Many of the estates have their own restaurants. At these restaurants one can taste a variety of local dishes, including venison, bobotie and snoek. International cuisine is offered too. Day tours usually include a leisurely lunch on one of the estates. Other items like olives, berries, baked goods and organic produce are often available for purchase.
The traditional French town of Franschhoek lies in a valley surrounded by vineyards and mountains. This makes it a good springboard to many wine estates. There are a number of top quality establishments offering accommodation in the area. It is also notable for its restaurants and its main street is lined with both restaurants and coffee shops.
The Paarl Wine Route is another popular route and is home to the largest wine cellar in South Africa, the KWV Wine Emporium. The town of Paarl also offers historical charm, culture and architectural heritage. The old Thatched Roof Church in the main road is one of the oldest in South Africa and is still in use today. Breath-taking scenery and many cycling and nature trails make this a favorite stop for nature lovers and those who enjoy being active.
Any time of the year is a good time to visit. There are regional wine festivals throughout the year, as well as special events and activities organized by wine estates. Take a donkey or horse-and-carriage ride through the vineyards or picnic next to a dam. Enjoy a show at an outdoor amphitheater or a massage at a spa and wellness center. The more active tourist has not been forgotten either with world-class golf courses and numerous cycling, walking and hiking routes.
As the Cape Winelands is an extensive area offering many different experiences, it is important to explore all the options available before making any bookings. It is possible to hire a car or to use a professional tour operator. Alternatively some of the wine routes use shuttle services or hop-on-hop off buses. Whatever means you choose to explore, this stunningly beautiful area is a must see.
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