Cape Winelands
Bosman Family Vineyards
The Bosman family have been vine growers for eight generations, and this farm exudes history. Visitors to the estate – located at Lelienfontein Farm on Hexberg Road near Wellington – will be greeted by a tasting room that is part of the original 270-year-old cellar, surrounded by beautifully kept gardens.
Oenophiles will discover wine varieties such as Sicilian Nero d’Avola and Fides, an innovative orange wine produced from skin-on white Grenache grapes. This selection is complemented by traditional favourites including Cabernet, Cinsaut, a Chenin Blanc Cap Classique and the Optenhorst Chenin Blanc from very old vines. Weekday visitors can wander through the ancient cellar “museum” – if you look down through a framed patch of glass flooring, you’ll see where the old wine vats once stood. Culinary offerings include Dalewood cheese platters and bitterballen, perfect accompaniments for wine tasting.
Imbuko Wines
Situated on Uitkyk Farm along Bo-Dal Street in Wellington, this estate (its name is isiXhosa for “admiration for”) offers plenty of seating indoors and out, and has a large jungle gym and grassed area for the kids. The estate is renowned for hosting the annual Imbuko Big Five MTB Challenge, a globally recognised mountain-biking hill-climb event.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of tasting experiences on the verandah, where five distinct labels offer an array of reds, whites, rosés and a Cap Classique. For a unique experience, guests can try pairings such as wine with gourmet pies or spritzers with macaroons. Those who opt for a blind tasting and accurately identify the wines stand a chance to win a wine hamper. The estate’s celebrated pies are available without a wine pairing, served with a side salad. Imbuko also caters for lighter appetites with a cheese platter.
Diemersfontein Wine & Country Estate
Diemersfontein Wine & Country Estate, located in Wellington, is renowned as the birthplace of the original coffee-chocolate Pinotage. Yet it offers so much more – what started as a family retreat in the 1940s is now a wine-tasting, event-hosting, food-loving haven. The country-chic Diemersfontein guesthouse offers 22 en-suite guest rooms.
Guests are invited to indulge in the estate’s diverse wine offerings, with four distinct ranges available for tasting in an elegant tasting room or on the scenic verandah. Alongside the pioneering Pinotage, which now has two additions to its family (Prodigy and Carpe Diem), the selection includes Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Malbec and a sweet Viognier, among others, ensuring a rich and varied tasting experience.
Wellington Wines at Bovlei
On Bainskloof Road (R301) in Wellington, the renovated Bovlei cellar is a historical landmark not to be missed, as it stands as the second-oldest cellar in South Africa. It now serves as the tasting room for Wellington Wines, a fruitful collaboration spanning decades between Bovlei, Wamakersvallei and the Wellington Cooperative. With its homely atmosphere and relaxed, comfortable aesthetic, it’s the perfect place to indulge in award-winning wines amidst picturesque vineyard views.
Enjoy a diverse selection of wines, including the unique white Pinotage, as well as varieties from Chenin Blanc to Shiraz.
The Duke’s Kitchen restaurant complements the wine-tasting experience with its home-cooked casual dining options featuring pizzas, burgers and a special meal of the day every Sunday.
Doolhof Wine Estate
Doolhof Wine Estate near Wellington is perfectly insulated from the outside world, providing an ideal sanctuary for those seeking to escape. The elegant tasting room invites guests to discover three ranges of award-winning wines, featuring a Cap Classique and a Shiraz in collaboration with singer Karen Zoid. Beyond the tasting room, the estate offers an outdoors experience that invites visitors and their four-legged friends to enjoy river walks, explore horse paddocks and navigate a labyrinth. For those seeking more vigorous activities, there are trails for hiking and mountain biking.
Mila restaurant on the premises offers a bistro-style menu focused on locally sourced ingredients. Doolhof also offers glamping options at AfriCamps, complete with personal hot tubs on the deck for a luxurious outdoor stay. Alternatively, guests can opt for the opulence of the Doolhof Boutique Hotel, a Cape Dutch manor featuring six suites, a grand verandah, a pool and a spa room.
Dunstone
At the foot of Bainskloof Pass, this picturesque, family-run boutique winery is a tranquil countryside venue with excellent wine and perfect for a family day out. The Country House lounge is an excellent setting for wine tasting, with the winery particularly acclaimed for its robust selection of red wines. Guests are treated to a unique wine and Belgian chocolate pairing experience. The estate also has a variety of hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. For families, there is no shortage of activities: children can enjoy the jungle gym; play mini-golf or mini-soccer; or use the swings and slides. Moreover, the venue welcomes dogs, making it a perfect destination for pet owners.
The Stone Kitchen bistro is known for its country-cuisine favourites, offering a range of platters and blackboard specials, and caters to families, featuring a highly child-friendly environment.
Upland Organic Estate
Upland Organic Estate, situated just outside Wellington, has been crafting world-class brandy, grappa, port and wines since 1990. These products stand out not only for their quality but also for being sulphite-free and vegan, reflecting the estate’s dedication to gentler, more sustainable farming methods.
Tastings are hosted in the Oude Klaskamer that offers an atmospheric backdrop to the wine experience. A must-try is the estate’s award-winning Cape Tawny port, which was recognised as the Platter Port of the Year in 2020. Upland also boasts the distinction of producing South Africa’s only cask-strength (undiluted) brandy. Visitors are invited to explore picturesque walks on the farm (with prior permission) – you can bring your own picnic to enjoy by the river.
Mont du Toit Wines
With roots tracing back to the French Huguenots, the Du Toit family boasts a rich farming heritage spanning 300 years. Their estate, situated at 119 Blouvlei Road, Wellington, flourishes with red-varietal vineyards, and offers wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Shiraz. These vines are nurtured using traditional and eco-friendly farming methods, demonstrating the family’s commitment to sustainable agriculture. Visitors are invited to try the internationally acclaimed, full-bodied wines through a tasting session led by the winemaker, available by appointment.
Welbedacht/Schalk Burger & Sons
Part of the sports-loving Burger family portfolio, which notably includes its very own cricket oval, Welbedacht was founded in 1830 and joined the family’s holdings in the 1990s.
Situated on Oakdene Road in Wellington, the estate’s expansive vineyards now cultivate 12 different grape cultivars, offering a diverse array of wines for tasting within the original cellar. This space has been transformed into a cosy, atmospheric tasting room, surrounded by a stunningly manicured garden. The estate has four wine ranges, including the Meerkat, alongside a Cap Classique and selections crafted in celebration of the Rugby World Cup.
Welbedacht is characterised by a delightful eccentricity and genuine warmth, providing an added touch of sparkle to every visit. Visitors should also be on the lookout for occasional live music concerts. Additionally, the farm is the proud host of the annual Boland Gravel Monster cycling race, further cementing its status as a hub of sporting and cultural activity.
Val du Charron
Val du Charron (French for “Valley of the Wagonmakers”) has been a Wellington landmark since the 1700s. The Entwistle family, having taken stewardship in 2006, has infused the estate with contemporary flair while enriching it with a plethora of attractions, transforming it into a captivating “leisure estate” adorned with sculptures across its manicured lawns. Home to 15 varietals, the estate’s blends are particularly celebrated, offered to guests through traditional wine tastings and cellar and vineyard tours. There are also hiking and mountain-biking trails to explore to soak up the beauty of this serene corner of the Cape Winelands.
Boschendal
Boschendal, located on Pniel Road in Groot Drakenstein near Franschhoek, represents the pinnacle of wine-farm destinations. The estate effortlessly checks every box for an unparalleled experience, offering stylish accommodation, engaging activities such as night markets and puppet shows, and a farm shop. Guests can choose from various luxurious lodgings, including self-catering cottages and a stunning mountain villa.
The Werf Restaurant offers a farm-to-table dining experience with spectacular views, while The Deli serves sandwiches and burgers. For a scenic outdoor experience, book a picnic in the Rhone rose garden. Wine enthusiasts can explore the Cellar Door for tastings on weekends and public holidays, complemented by a charcuterie board or a chocolate-and-wine pairing.
Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines
On the slopes of the Dassenberg mountains, Leeu Estates is a sprawling 68ha wine farm and the proud home of Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines. It was acquired by entrepreneur Analjit Singh after his first visit to Franschhoek in 2010. Accommodation at Leeu Estates includes the elegantly restored Manor House and picturesque cottages, ensuring a luxurious stay amid the vineyards, gardens and native fynbos.
The Wine Studio offers guests a chance to enjoy the estate’s acclaimed wines with a tasting experience guided by the award-winning duo, Chris and Andrea Mullineux. Culinary offerings at Le chêne restaurant boast a menu that marries South African flavours with French techniques, set against the estate’s breathtaking views. Adding to the gastronomic delight is La Petite Colombe, offering exemplary fine dining.
Anthonij Rupert
Framed by the beauty of the L’Ormarins Estate in the Franschhoek Valley, Anthonij Rupert Wines is renowned for its exquisite vintages produced with the help of state-of-the-art facilities. More than just a winery, this destination marries heritage architecture with modern winemaking, set against a backdrop of spectacular scenery and complemented by gourmet cuisine and a range of engaging attractions.
Highlights include the Franschhoek Motor Museum, which showcases 80 vintage cars and the option to explore the estate by tram. The Estate Package offers lunch, wine, a tram ride and museum access, providing a comprehensive experience. Visitors can indulge in a luxurious high tea or choose from three wine-tasting experiences tailored to suit varied preferences and budgets.
La Motte
Surrounded by majestic oak trees, La Motte in Franschhoek stands as a prestigious estate celebrated for its world-class wines, distinguished restaurant, charming farm shop, estate museum and welcoming tasting room.
The estate’s wines, known for their quality and elegance, include a refreshing aperitif-style Sauvignon Blanc, classic Chardonnay, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, all of which can be savoured in the tasting room.
La Motte restaurant mirrors the estate’s dedication to creativity and excellence. Visitors are encouraged to explore the La Motte Museum (which includes a JH Pierneef exhibition), enjoy scenic hikes on the property and visit the farm shop. There’s also a bakery on site.
Eikehof Wine Estate
Eikehof Wine Estate, enveloped by majestic oaks, reflects the enduring legacy of the Malherbe family, who have looked after this family-owned winery since its establishment in 1903. The estate’s name, derived from the Afrikaans word for oak, speaks of its deep connection to the surrounding natural beauty.
As a cherished hidden gem, Eikehof offers a tranquil retreat for enjoying leisurely days with loved ones, complemented by exceptional wines. Guests receive a warm welcome with a complimentary tasting of the estate’s Rosé upon arrival at the tasting centre, where a knowledgeable and passionate winemaker leads regular tastings. Visitors are invited to savour farm-fresh platters or indulge in an al fresco picnic on the lawns, all while admiring the picturesque views of the vineyards and the majestic Drakenstein mountains in the distance.
La Petite Ferme
Offering stunning views of both the valley and surrounding mountains, La Petite Ferme in Franschhoek has become a preferred destination for those with a refined taste. This esteemed winery offers individually decorated accommodation options, including vineyard suites, each featuring a private pool and log-burning fireplace with valley views, and manor house rooms that share a pool.
The restaurant at La Petite Ferme, enhanced by breathtaking vistas, serves a seasonal menu of fresh, beautifully presented dishes. Despite its modest size, La Petite Ferme is renowned for producing some of the country’s most coveted wines, thanks to the expertise of winemaker Wikus Pretorius, whose extensive experience spans wine regions in France, California and Australia. Guests can enjoy these exquisite estate wines in a tasting room or amid the natural beauty of the garden.
Haute Cabrière
Owned for generations by the Von Arnim family, Haute Cabrière is situated on the slopes of the Franschhoek Mountains, offering unparalleled views over the sprawling valley below. The estate is celebrated for its exquisite restaurant, featuring a selection of à la carte dishes and shareable tapas designed to complement its setting.
A visit to the bakery and deli is essential for indulging in some of the finest croissants outside of Paris. The estate’s tasting room, a remarkable stone cellar built into the mountains, provides guests with a glimpse into the underground barrel maturation room, enhancing the wine-tasting experience. This is the heart of the estate, where the magic of winemaking comes alive. Before leaving, visitors have the opportunity to purchase some of the estate’s quality wines, ensuring the Haute Cabrière experience lasts well beyond their visit.
Mont Rochelle
Owned by founder of the Virgin Group Richard Branson, Mont Rochelle is a distinguished estate offering panoramic views of meadows, vineyards and mountains. This tranquil retreat is renowned for its superb, award-winning wines and 26 stylish rooms with exposed-beam ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views.
Visitors can indulge in homegrown wines at the tasting lounge or enjoy a wine-paired meal. Mont Rochelle boasts two restaurants: Miko, serving meals made with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients; and The Country Kitchen, for a more relaxed atmosphere. The estate also offers scenic picnics for an al fresco dining experience.
Maison
Maison celebrates the essence of Cape Winelands hospitality, promoting slow and relaxed living. The estate’s contemporary design, set against the Franschhoek Mountains, complements the exceptional dining experience at Chefs Warehouse, known for its “global tapas” and excellent wines.
Maison features a vineyard- and mountain-facing contemporary farmhouse available for exclusive use or on a per-room basis, which includes beautifully decorated en-suite bedrooms as well as a suite annexed to the old stable block.
Grande Provence
Grande Provence, a historic estate in the valley, offers a luxurious French country escape combined with homespun comfort. It boasts extensive vineyards, an accolade-accruing restaurant and excellent wine-tasting facilities. Guests can enjoy traditional South African cuisine with a modern twist, engage in wine tasting by a cosy fireplace, or explore the on-site gallery as well as a sculpture garden. Accommodation includes The Owner’s Cottage and the La Provençale Vineyard Villa, offering exclusive or per-room rental options.
Lanzerac
Lanzerac Wine Estate is a historic landmark – established in 1692, it is the third-oldest farm in Stellenbosch and the first to commercially bottle and sell Pinotage.
The estate offers a range of wine experiences, including heritage limited releases, the cellar master’s unusual blends, a Pinotage rosé and a Cap Classique. Guests can enjoy tastings, wine-and-chocolate pairings and a variety of dining options at the elegant Manor Kitchen, the casual Deli and the Taphuis, a gourmet pub grub and small-plates venue. The estate also features the Lanzerac Spa, offering exquisite hydrotherapy and a manicured garden.
To cater for families, there’s a children’s menu at the Taphuis and Deli, including fantastic milkshakes. The five-star Lanzerac Hotel is arguably one of the most beautiful in the Cape Winelands.
Lanzerac has been under its current ownership since 2012, with a focus on bringing the grandeur of the estate into the 21st century without compromising its heritage.
Vergenoegd Löw
Vergenoegd Löw, dating back to 1696, is a bastion of heritage and conservation. The estate is committed to preserving rare endangered, flora and the environment, and is renowned for its wines. Visitors can also indulge in tastings at the historic Homestead tasting room or outside, accompanied by snacks. An indigenous tasting experience pairs local delicacies with the estate’s wines.
The food at Vergenoegd showcases South African cuisine with a twist, including foraged ingredients, at Clara’s Barn (three- or five-course sharing menus paired with wines) or Geuwels; or try the picnic baskets filled with familiar local favourites under oak trees on the lawns. There is also a children’s menu and kiddies’ picnics.
The estate is home to 1 000 Indian runner ducks and a Cape Dutch homestead, and offers luxurious farm-style spa experiences.
Zorgvliet Wines
Zorgvliet is one of the region’s oldest farms, dating back to the late 1600s. It is located in the scenic Banhoek Valley, between two mountain peaks. It boasts Cape Dutch buildings and offers three ranges of wines: the flagship Zorgvliet, premium Grand Cuvée and everyday Silwer Myn. Options include Petit Verdot, Sauvignon (Blanc and Cabernet), Merlot, Rosé and Cap Classique. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in the original 1692 manor house, including a bookings-only vintage tasting.
Enjoy a five-course à la carte small-plate menu, or can pick up a picnic basket with a complimentary bottle of Silwer Myn to enjoy in the gorgeous gardens. Keep an eye out for occasional live music. For the kids, there is a playground next to the picnic area, with a jungle gym, jumping castle and more. The restaurant also offers a children’s menu, and a kiddies picnic basket.
You can also stay at the Country Lodge, which offers rooms, suites and family units, as well as a lovely pool area.
Spier
Spier Wine Farm, situated in the Jonkershoek valley, is a must-visit destination in south-west Stellenbosch. It boasts age-old trees, sprawling vineyards and Cape Dutch buildings, and has a serene river running through it. The farm offers a diverse wine selection including organic, vegan and Cap Classique options.
Visitors can indulge in tastings at a tasting room by the dam, accompanied by platters or a chocolate pairing. Hearty meals are available at Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery, while the Farm Café offers grab-and-go picnic fare. The estate hosts Bubbles & Braai pop-ups and Friday night wine-pairing dinners.
Beyond wine and dining, Spier provides a range of activities including Segway tours, self-guided walks, contemporary art displays and the Eagle Encounters bird-of-prey sanctuary. Families can explore the Elemental Garden and enjoy grape-juice tastings. Accommodation at the Spier Hotel offers a luxurious stay.
Hazendal
Hazendal Wine Estate stretches across the Bottelary Hills in the Stellenbosch Winelands, just 30 minutes from Cape Town. It is a world-class destination offering culture, cuisine, golf and entertainment for the entire family.
One of the oldest estates in the region, Hazendal boasts two wine ranges – Hazendal and Christoffel Hazenwinkel – featuring reds, whites, Cap Classique, and a Spanish Carignan. The estate’s plush Wine Lounge provides tastings with cheese and charcuterie platters, while the subterranean Wine Library offers a sensory food-and-wine pairing experience.
Food options range from comfort classics at the Deli to gourmet pub grub at The Kraal beer garden and three-course dinners at monthly Jazz Club events. Visitors can explore the Marvol Gallery, Cape Dutch manor house and classic car collection, and enjoy activities like putt-putt at Kleine Hazen putting park.
Quoin Rock
The Gaiduk family, owners since 2012, have transformed the Quoin Rock estate into a stunning and relaxing destination. It offers a wide selection of wines, including reds, whites, Cap Classique and a husk spirit. Visitors can enjoy sommelier-led tastings in the Wine Lounge or on the terrace with views into the cellar.
Gåte Restaurant provides a fine-dining experience with three-, five- or seven-course menus, including vegan options, paired with wine or tea. The estate has beautiful and manicured gardens with sculptures and stylish pergolas for gourmet picnics, and is a striking venue for functions. For children, there’s a picnic menu and entertainment like lawn games and a jumping castle. Accommodation at the Cape Dutch Manor House offers views of False Bay, Cape Point and Table Mountain.
Tokara
Perched on a mountain overlooking vineyards, Tokara in Stellenbosch is renowned for its Sauvignons and diverse wine ranges, and brandy. Guests can enjoy tastings in the cellar or the artsy Tasting Lounge and delicious meals at the glass-walled Tokara Restaurant.
The estate’s Olive Shed produces olive oil, while there’s also a sculpture garden and an orchard walkway. Families will delight in the children’s menu and jungle gym with treehouses on the lawns.
With its rich history, Tokara promises a memorable experience for tourists interested in exquisite wines, fine dining and gorgeous views.
Blaauwklippen
Blaauwklippen is one of the Winelands’ most picturesque estates, surrounded by classic Cape Dutch architecture and ancient oak trees. Guests at this wine farm can indulge in wines, including reds, whites, Rosé, Cap Classique and a rare Zinfandel. Wine tastings feature five wines and pairings with macarons, chocolate and fudge.
The food ranges from creative “country casual” dishes at the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant to bistro-style meals at the deli. The estate hosts a family market under fig trees as well as craft gin tasting, and has a bike park and a glasshouse cathedral. Children can enjoy jungle gyms and special picnic boxes.
Accommodation at Blaauwklippen Manor offers exclusive group stays.
Delaire Graff Estate
Situated on the Helshoogte Pass and owned by international jeweller Laurence Graff, Delaire Graff Estate offers breathtaking views, beautiful interiors and great dining. The estate features three wine ranges – Premium, Luxury and Icon – showcasing Banhoek Chardonnays and Stellenbosch Cabernets. Indulge in tasting options at the chic Wine Lounge, complemented by cheese and charcuterie platters, or enjoy sundowners on the terrace.
For dining, there are modern bistro dishes with a local twist at Delaire Graff Restaurant or Japanese cuisine at Hoseki – both offering al fresco dining with stunning Banhoek Valley views. The estate also has a sculpture-filled garden, a spa with bespoke products, designer boutique, and renowned artworks. Accommodation at the Delaire Lodges provides the ultimate luxury retreat.
Muratie
Muratie Wine Estate, a 15-minute drive north of Stellenbosch, exudes a bohemian charm that encapsulates the Cape’s rich history. Founded in 1685, the farm is a living museum where buildings, artefacts and centuries-old trees tell stories of the past.
Traditional winemaking methods are still in practice, offering visitors an authentic taste of wine-farm life, especially at the GP Canitz Guest Cottage. Wine tastings happen in a characterful room adorned with old paintings and stained glass, or within the cellar among aged wine tanks. There are options for chocolate pairing.
The Farm Kitchen serves up hearty, country-style meals in the atmospheric old wine cellar with wine pairings to complement each dish. There’a a special menu for children, making Muratie a captivating experience for all ages.
