Destinations / South Africa / The Cape Winelands
The Cape Winelands
Vineyards, Mountains & Fine Dining
Less than an hour from Cape Town, the Cape Winelands unfold across valleys framed by dramatic mountains. Historic Cape Dutch estates, award-winning wines and some of South Africa's finest restaurants make Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Paarl the perfect place to slow down before or after safari
A Wilderness Like No Other
World-Class Wines
More than three centuries of winemaking have shaped the valleys of the Cape, now celebrated for Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage and Méthode Cap Classique.
Cape Dutch Heritage
Whitewashed gables, oak-lined streets and historic estates tell the story of the region's past. Franschhoek was settled by French Huguenots in the late 1600s.
A Culinary Destination
From farm-to-table kitchens to elegant tasting menus, the Winelands are home to many of the country's most acclaimed restaurants.
Unforgettable Experiences
Slow days, fine wine and beautiful landscapes.
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The Wine Route Experience
Follow the celebrated wine routes of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl with a private guide, tasting with winemakers from old-vine Chenin Blanc to Cabernet Sauvignon.
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Franschhoek Wine Tram
Hop between estates in the Franschhoek valley aboard an open-air tram.
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Fine Dining
Enjoy tasting menus and long vineyard lunches in Franschhoek, often called South Africa's culinary capital.
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Cape Dutch Estates
Explore gabled manor houses, oak-lined avenues and historic cellars dating back more than 300 years.
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Cycling Among the Vines
Ride quiet farm roads between estates by e-bike.
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Art & Sculpture
Discover the galleries and sculpture gardens found on several Stellenbosch and Franschhoek estates.
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Horseback Riding
Ride through vineyards and up into the foothills.
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Spa & Wellness
Unwind with treatments in a garden or mountain setting.
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Visit Babylonstoren
Wander the celebrated garden of this historic Cape Dutch farm near Paarl, then taste its wines and enjoy a garden-to-table lunch.
When to visit
The Winelands are beautiful in every season.
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Long, sunny summer days for alfresco dining. Harvest usually runs from February into March.
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Autumn turns the vineyards gold and red, with mild weather and fewer visitors.
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Cool, rainy winter days are perfect for roaring fires, cellar tastings and hearty, wine-paired menus.
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Spring blossoms and new growth return to the vines
Premier Stays
Historic estates and boutique hideaways among the vines.
Boutique Hotels
Intimate, beautifully designed hotels with views across vineyards and mountains.
Wine Estate Stays
Suites on working wine estates, with cellar tours and tastings on your doorstep.
Exclusive Use Villas
Your own villa among the vines, with a private chef, pool and dedicated staff.
Pairs Perfectly with…
Because the best safaris rarely stop at one destination.
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Cape Town
Combine the Winelands with the mountain, ocean and energy of the city.
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Greater Kruger
Pair a visit to the Cape and its winelands with a classic Big Five safari in the Greater Kruger just a 2 hour flight away.
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Okavango Delta
Trade the vines for the silent waterways of Botswana.
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The Kalahari
Fly direct from Cape Town to the red dunes of the Kalahari, home to black-maned lions, meerkats and pangolins.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Franschhoek and Stellenbosch are around 45 minutes to an hour's drive from Cape Town and its airport.
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We recommend two to three nights to enjoy the region at an unhurried pace.o drive.
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No. We arrange private drivers and guides, so you can enjoy every tasting without needing to drive.
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South Africa is now ranked among the world's most exciting wine countries, with more than three centuries of winemaking behind it. Look out for old-vine Chenin Blanc, Pinotage (South Africa's own grape), Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends, Syrah, and Cap Classique sparkling wine.
