Superb cool-climate wines in the country’s smallest “wine of origin” region.
From Plettenberg Bay, a short drive in any direction and you can find yourself deep in purest countryside: lush forests, haunting Tsitsikamma mountain vistas, rolling farmland, fynbos, and – for the last two decades – vineyards producing limited quantities of cool-climate wines in the country’s smallest “wine of origin” region.
It’s all thanks to a farmer named Peter Thorpe, who planted his first sauvignon blanc vines on Bramon Wine Estate 22 years ago, having identified climatic similarities between the Garden Route and winegrowing regions in New Zealand. Until then, no-one had ever considered growing wine this far east of the Cape’s traditional winegrowing regions.
By 2006, Plett was declared a wine region, with grapes grown on farms stretching between the picturesque rural hamlets of Harkerville and The Crags, known for cooling sea breezes and indigenous forests. Over the years various small-scale vineyards have come and gone, mostly focused on white varietals, and several offering intimate tastings and farm-style lunches out of their boutique cellars. Many vintages are so rare, they can only be bought in the area, which means that exploring the wine route firsthand is not only a chance to discover the region, but has practical advantages as well.
Worth highlighting is the region’s focus on Méthode Cap Classique. Plett’s wine farmers have long been intent on making this South Africa’s sparkling wine hub (the town traditionally hosts an annual Wine & Bubbly Festival in March). Aside from the wine farms below, there is also closed-to-the-public De Villo Boutique Wine, where Plett’s first Merlot (first harvested in 2015) is produced by Olof and Marlita de Villiers on a farm atop a hill above the Keurbooms River.
Here are the 9 must-visit wine farms in Plettenberg Bay:
Bramon
What began as just a few hectares (experimentally) under vine kickstarted a farming revolution for the Garden Route. Today, over 20 hectares produce grapes for a range of award-winning wines and bubblies, including the first South African Méthode Cap Classique made from 100% sauvignon blanc grapes. Situated in The Crags, where tall mountains loom overhead and several world-class animal sanctuaries serve as useful family entertainment, Bramon is a warm, welcoming and thoroughly laidback spot to unwind and enjoy a sybaritic afternoon, without a hint of pretence. There’s place for children (and dogs) to play as you feast on mezze platters or order picnic crates from the indoor-outdoor restaurant (very easy-going: you tick off your desired tapas and tuck in as they arrive) – if you’re lucky (or reserve), you’ll get a table between the vines.
Hot tip Bramon is massively popular and during peak season (10 December – 10 January), there’s a time limit (2.5 hours) on all table bookings in the restaurant.
Opening times Tasting Room: Tuesday – Sunday 11.30am – 5pm
Restaurant: Monday – Sunday, 11am – 5pm
Contact 073 833 8183, therestaurant@bramonwines.com
Where to find it Bramon Wine Estate, N2, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
![Plettenberg bay winelands bramon Plettenberg bay winelands bramon](https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bramon.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=2000&s=270ed6c6c67c810b0dd972f512d2006a 2000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bramon.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1800&s=89678724cdcd7c5d52d349841c91f090 1800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bramon.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1600&s=ec2f0f936c48da2093268e5ddc33709e 1600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bramon.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1400&s=6c5b2a59370ba77c3a11ee5b1ed2e3df 1400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bramon.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1200&s=1834813106d9c2af956cc4be317da93e 1200w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bramon.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1000&s=9c889a74e998f4795abad8b52e49d23a 1000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bramon.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=800&s=568eb88004c8108ebfe107cd43de42da 800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bramon.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=600&s=072389bf5b94a34867dc7bdc064a7580 600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bramon.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=400&s=bf75594126a67b3b7ccb86b8458f2878 400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bramon.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=300&s=d3295d94521a0927926d750496213945 300w)
Kay and Monty Vineyards
With sumptuous mountain views and a setting deep in the rural wonder that is The Crags, this boutique-size farm has just 7.5 hectares under vine – great things have been achieved with what’s grown here, however. Its first wines were produced in 2012, immediately garnering gold medals and a string of stars – its distinctive sauvignon blanc and popular Champu MCC are more than worthy of a visit (and they recently released their first rosé and red blend). Along with wonderful wines, there are the beautifully prepared artisanal platters served in The Tasting Room. This chic, open-plan space in the converted old orchid greenhouse sits alongside the farm’s dam: warming fires are lit in winter or you can stretch out on the deck in summer savouring the sumptuous views as you linger over a long, languid lunch.
Hot tip While it’s a great spot for an afternoon, it also transforms into a rather spectacular wedding venue, in case you’re on the hunt for somewhere especially serene to tie the knot.
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Contact 079 965 9779, info@kayandmonty.com
Where to find it Redford Road, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
![Plettenberg bay winelands kay monty vineyards Plettenberg bay winelands kay monty vineyards](https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-kay-monty-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=2000&s=0d8877a624f6eebdc9bc0e3e444b978f 2000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-kay-monty-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1800&s=aa4252f36d830f8a5bba73fcc983246d 1800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-kay-monty-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1600&s=0905611bae9fe6f32ff26d4a8ff1c0a4 1600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-kay-monty-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1400&s=b3c913218d86788e661482f8c34cff2b 1400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-kay-monty-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1200&s=dad8be84268aefbc596ec05dd71d70f7 1200w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-kay-monty-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1000&s=b0293c7fe37985238f49fc08d113d802 1000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-kay-monty-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=800&s=d58cb300eb831777f2ec7304a890fadb 800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-kay-monty-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=600&s=8db527034378d2f4f1beab114a80143b 600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-kay-monty-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=400&s=69904a652da2e370a55ab86e24a8bf18 400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-kay-monty-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=300&s=a1a4ab985d5a653b57e1be2eeccca598 300w)
Newstead
With a focus on organic farming techniques and preference for producing small quantities of high-quality grapes, Newstead’s Lund Family Vineyards is authentic and unpretentious. The first MCC produced here was a 2012 blanc de blanc that won a double-gold at the Michaelangelo Awards, a direct reflection of the specialness of the terroir, the quality of the grapes and the focus of the wine-making. Today, when you visit, there’s every chance the MCC will be sold out – good thing, then, that the Bubbly Bar is well-stocked and also serves craft beers and gin-infused cocktails. It’s worth lingering for the food, too – the restaurant does pizzas as well as dishes put together from what’s in season and whatever’s fresh from the garden. They also provide picnics that can be enjoyed between the vines. And, thanks to the family’s love of the sport, Newstead remains something of a polo hangout. Apart from regular chukkas played on the estate, in April there’s a popular polo evening, accompanied by a sunset picnic that gets very festive.
Hot tip If you want to stay awhile, there’s a pair of chic two-person self-catering cottages renovated from the old farmhouse available to rent. They’re next to the horse paddocks and the pinot noir vineyard.
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 4pm (wine sales on Monday + Tuesday by arrangement)
Contact 076 300 9740, info@newsteadwines.com
Where to find it Newstead Wine Estate, Redford Road, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
![Plettenberg bay winelands newstead Plettenberg bay winelands newstead](https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-newstead.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=2000&s=dc55758025c870c54010cbbc2de1728b 2000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-newstead.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1800&s=4bc174755aefa896ab0e91fdc18bb6ba 1800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-newstead.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1600&s=7fb740ffb1340a03a42fb5c92cb4972c 1600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-newstead.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1400&s=ad5946744bd5647c697f96671db452cd 1400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-newstead.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1200&s=d362f2c708242830464c8787303c14db 1200w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-newstead.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1000&s=6bd2dc5fc6ccb5f333b5d9498b1e05ca 1000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-newstead.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=800&s=dbc40024e93d834f8345d5a5eedc62d0 800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-newstead.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=600&s=33e3b7cef365cc14f71a5da577006311 600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-newstead.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=400&s=a843b256268907f22750485da5299ef6 400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-newstead.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=300&s=81cf00d5654e4a30f673ae3bb24e8a42 300w)
Packwood Wine and Country Estate
Between Plett and Knysna, the rural hamlet of Harkerville is almost imperceptible (save for a few farm stalls and side roads veering off into the forest). One such road (Fisanthoek Road) leads to this hilltop estate with commanding views of the surrounding landscape: on one side are massive gorges, mountain views and the distant ocean, embraced from the north by indigenous forests. Owners Pete and Vicky Gent emigrated from England in 1997, starting a Jersey dairy herd from scratch (their core business). Today, they also manage a cracking trade in garagiste wines made from hand-selected grapes, sustainably grown and nourished by the rich soils. “The climate was similar to many parts of the world, we couldn’t understand why there weren’t vineyards everywhere,” recalls Vicky. “So working alongside experts Vinpro, the perfect site was found and planting began. From our small vineyard we produce many wines: cap classique, pinot noir, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc. If you’re planning a visit, stay a while and enjoy the fresh air and views across the farm, while diving into a farm-fresh lunch of soft delicately flavoured cheese, crusty bread, chutneys and dips.
Good to know The lunch area accommodates up to 26 people for private functions, an ideal spot for a micro-wedding. There’s also a farm cottage to rent.
Opening times Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 5pm
Saturday + public holidays, 10am – 3pm
Contact 078 244 9400, 083 999 9521, vicky@packwood.co.za
Where to find it Packwood Wine and Country Estate, Fisanthoek, Harkerville, off the N2 between Plett (20km) and Knysna (25km), Garden Route, Western Cape
![Plettenberg bay winelands packwood Plettenberg bay winelands packwood](https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-packwood.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=2000&s=379d55a8405391d6c58dce9ca04950cc 2000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-packwood.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1800&s=ae80bffe63c97dad0d556d1fa9c7ee23 1800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-packwood.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1600&s=90f598e0363d55290ad7a2698a950633 1600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-packwood.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1400&s=2b5d75775c2058c9151601a3d27e4d8f 1400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-packwood.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1200&s=80e34842ba30e58f6a547c1805eeeafb 1200w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-packwood.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1000&s=9e43df53123ac5eb0b53338dc031a5ac 1000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-packwood.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=800&s=848a61998cbe88a0a1db12c3da136363 800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-packwood.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=600&s=4918a45f1c56f7821163acab905c5d63 600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-packwood.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=400&s=001d7489e05d910fd8781a8d28787233 400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-packwood.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=300&s=bc51a35340a9e0d11ab996988d99c492 300w)
Plettenvale Wine Estate
The first vines at this family-owned farm were planted in 2008 and the initial 2011 harvest produced only 630 bottles. But it has grown in output and confidence and now has its own winery and cellar (built in 2012), although the handcrafted approach ensures that quantities of each vintage remain limited, meaning that each bottle is something special. Aside from an award-winning brut rosé MCC, they produce a crisp, well-balanced dry rosé, an excellent unwooded chardonnay, and, from syrah grapes planted on the highest part of the estate, an easy-drinking red with subtle ripe-berry flavours and a smooth, peppery finish. Lovely wines aside, part of the charm is the graciously hands-on touch: visitors get a personalised winery tour before one of the paired tastings.
Hot tip Call ahead to book a cheese-and-wine or chocolate-and-wine pairing.
Opening times Wine tasting and sales every Saturday 10am–2pm; other times by appointment (082 322 0765)
Contact 082 322 0765 or 082 320 8765, info@plettenvalewines.co.za
Where to find it Plot 88, Roodefontein, Airport Road, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
![Plettenberg bay winelands plettenvale Plettenberg bay winelands plettenvale](https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-plettenvale.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=2000&s=4009586918cf820de4c7c3c0d8552ce6 2000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-plettenvale.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1800&s=dc6bb60bdffbab871264bcdcdb06f102 1800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-plettenvale.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1600&s=5939b074cc06cc2b905b6285b57c8d90 1600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-plettenvale.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1400&s=b6b2006c05f40218e38cacb9c499441d 1400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-plettenvale.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1200&s=207cc0bbce6da92a96b59fca6a77c768 1200w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-plettenvale.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1000&s=15b1edcce4d39742c29c4d47fb4be3bc 1000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-plettenvale.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=800&s=0b4deeb445919cdc929be40f183a8718 800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-plettenvale.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=600&s=583524db89174dcb2d2c10bbea38e493 600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-plettenvale.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=400&s=76bb88699a3b902ee68d5b905cd72756 400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-plettenvale.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=300&s=6c18f8b5d219aa9cb1f0d9cc3743aaca 300w)
Bitou Vineyards
With vineyards on former polo fields and a new cellar in the old stable block under the stewardship of Plett’s pioneering winemaker Anton Smal, this estate on the banks of the Bitou River has recently evolved into a robust wine-country destination. Not only are there wonderful sauvignon blancs and a marvellous malbec (that went into oak barrels in 2020) to taste, there’s a restaurant doing delicious food in a handsome setting. It opens onto a deck overlooking vineyards and near-distant mountains. There’s also a line-up of entertainment events if you’re looking for more reasons to settle in for a while.
Opening times Daily, 11am – 9pm
Contact 044 004 0369, info@bitouvineyards.co.za
Where to find it Bitou Vineyards, Off N2, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
![Plettenberg bay winelands bitou vineyards Plettenberg bay winelands bitou vineyards](https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bitou-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=2000&s=0021913b159eb7b987585fcf51df4e06 2000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bitou-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1800&s=de5611faa2b982c0edbbb29f16dac086 1800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bitou-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1600&s=6c23b2abb0ecb07cb981cdb38174a8d7 1600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bitou-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1400&s=c989ead0c3a324932f26a9ce2118b576 1400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bitou-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1200&s=95fb6f50a72a99f28fa8b8b1940c55c1 1200w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bitou-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1000&s=6cfb4f2ff32d6f4be1e7b26d8bca5d45 1000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bitou-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=800&s=e9ac13fdacc16669bc88a915a1166d4b 800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bitou-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=600&s=f98c542cf860a996e245055627b96bef 600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bitou-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=400&s=78dd0df04b482407bf34e72007442871 400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-bitou-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=300&s=1915f5b5882e070e59ee6a1931dac522 300w)
Lodestone Wines
Lodestone Wine and Olive Estate was first established in 2012 on a beautiful, fynbos-covered property in the Redford area of the Crags just outside of Plettenberg Bay. The estate straddles two adjoining farms in the foothills of the Tsitsikama Mountains, at an elevation of 250 metres. In 2022, Lodestone Wine and Olive Estate was acquired by an international investment company whose vision was to create one of the most pristine private wine estates in the Crags Valley.
Worth knowing The restaurant and tasting room will reopen once work on the Redford Road is completed. Lodestone wines, olives and olive oils can be ordered online.
Opening times Not currently open to the public due to roadworks.
Contact 044 534 8015, 084 404 0099, info@lodestonewines.co.za
Where to find it 9 Rondebosch Road, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
![Plettenberg bay winelands lodestone Plettenberg bay winelands lodestone](https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-lodestone.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=2000&s=7bb70aff6798c0d173a2893059fba3d8 2000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-lodestone.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1800&s=65f06da37ec8f4983344ce7abd90df9f 1800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-lodestone.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1600&s=af63d3698ac2938526f1bccc46ba0412 1600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-lodestone.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1400&s=3469a1ee5811f78fe5076993662fa1b9 1400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-lodestone.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1200&s=3582c1ec080bf86a3b18b4e8d9819ee6 1200w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-lodestone.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1000&s=d839377ab289a120c9ddb448cb0321f1 1000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-lodestone.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=800&s=c3c25d70122dc95880eb2c437a43707c 800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-lodestone.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=600&s=f99c7f27da06c798b8741911fd593615 600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-lodestone.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=400&s=2888e76bf4cb6baef0b9a2cd3533cd73 400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-lodestone.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=300&s=89d9c17551e88f94fbd99cd0f2a80c85 300w)
Luka Vineyards
In Harkerville, near the Elephant Park, this small, sustainability-focused estate has not looked back since garnering a Double Gold award for its third sauvignon blanc harvest. Now, with new owners and a fully-fledged café-style restaurant in the pretty gardens overlooking the vineyards and dam, its fabulous countryside location has truly come into its own. Along with breakfasts and lunches they do delectable packed picnics comprising baked treats and items thoughtfully selected from a seasonal menu. There’s a little farm shop selling wines and produce from the area, and if you’re not a wine drinker, they serve beer and gin – plus bubbly, of course. It’s child-friendly, too, with a dedicated play area for youngsters – and dogs are welcome if they’re on a leash and you’re seated outside.
Hot tip On Fridays, happy hour is from 4.30pm to 6.30pm, with cocktails, shots, beers and wine by the glass, plus pizzas served from 4 till 8pm.
Opening times Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 4pm; Saturday, 9.30am – 4pm;
Sunday, 9.30am – 3pm; wine tasting by appointment on Monday
Contact 076 575 4768, laura@lukavineyards.co.za
Where to find it HKV80 Harkerville, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
![Plettenberg bay winelands luka vineyards Plettenberg bay winelands luka vineyards](https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-luka-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=2000&s=1dc9ce90ca1496f691d9259809c65d68 2000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-luka-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1800&s=4ff2a501b47f1f0bf455e8f605cbfe44 1800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-luka-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1600&s=7aea6d00e78c0a94298bb5cc96d15b83 1600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-luka-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1400&s=53219bfd74691d596ab1518550906d01 1400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-luka-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1200&s=54681c3501a861d0a98fecfb68bfd6b4 1200w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-luka-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1000&s=c1af29647a3addd1e0a02115830a84dd 1000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-luka-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=800&s=9d9a291249aa41935eeb02a309e7a5f8 800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-luka-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=600&s=c4f1f60c90203048a8f1206a1ec228d2 600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-luka-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=400&s=79974f8dda9628b628a09516325e28ed 400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-luka-vineyards.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=300&s=f809817392df2eb388c78d03dbc64ede 300w)
That Wine Demesne
Situated in The Crags at the end of one of those easy-to-miss turnoffs that head into this gorgeous pocket of hidden-away Garden Route countryside, this is among the smallest vineyards in the country, with just one hectare under the vines. It’s where the Butlers live with their menagerie of dogs, and a whole lot of tricky pinot noir grapes. While there isn’t a tasting room on the farm, there are two self-catering, pet-friendly houses on the estate: That Place is a three-bedroom bohemian charmer with its own outdoor pool enfolded by indigenous forest and a sauna to sweat it out in. Its sister house, Ons Hoek, is filled with books, treasures and knickknacks. Both are comfortable nests where you can spend a good, relaxing holiday. Besides being next door to Bramon (where you can buy That Wine), there are loads of family-friendly activities within easy reach: Birds of Eden, Monkeyland, and several other animal sanctuaries (including one full of reptiles) are found here. Plus two of the Garden Route’s best beaches – Keurboomstrand and Nature’s Valley – are close by.
Hot tip Only a handful of places sell That Wine: Beau de Jour Café at Bramon Tasting Centre and the restaurant at Bramon (it’s the farm next door); Fynboshoek Restaurant in the Tsitsikamma; the café at Luka Vineyards in Harkerville; at Barrington’s, The Fat Fish and at The Table Restaurant, all in Plett; and Ice Dream Land (ask as it may not be listed on the menu), the pizzeria and gelateria on the Airport Road near Plett.
Opening times The farm is only open to overnight guests.
Contact 082 578 1939, info@thatplace.co.za
Where to find it Off N2, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
![Plettenberg bay winelands that wine demesne Plettenberg bay winelands that wine demesne](https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-that-wine-demesne.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=2000&s=e6db3425bd1f982cbb5a71c548cbb12f 2000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-that-wine-demesne.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1800&s=2a11960bd803b2445317952d1ae84fe2 1800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-that-wine-demesne.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1600&s=bae3d76de194f6c9667be7e4352b18a1 1600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-that-wine-demesne.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1400&s=14a5dd1d130f55484bc4bf2a68fb1fb1 1400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-that-wine-demesne.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1200&s=94359efd947f87c4ec8304124cbdc74d 1200w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-that-wine-demesne.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=1000&s=4677dc39625f925d988bb3193f852f4c 1000w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-that-wine-demesne.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=800&s=4e1bb1506715d5723bddb8c4752ec110 800w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-that-wine-demesne.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=600&s=9fb20450446e197ee4a7b0cc42c007b0 600w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-that-wine-demesne.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=400&s=3bf12f1e6fa5611a0d9ca97563c19637 400w, https://wesgro.imgix.net/uploads/files/plettenberg-bay-winelands-that-wine-demesne.webp?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=clip&q=90&ratio=&w=300&s=a8de8c10db3e9f63e8fd5828788f382a 300w)