In South Africa’s Western Cape, the enchanting Cape Winelands may just be the most coveted wine region in the world. With sublime scenery, world-class wines, and rich cultural history, this remarkable region is a sought-after destination for wine lovers and travelers alike. From soaring mountains and manicured gardens to lush vineyards and charming Cape Dutch architecture, we take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful South African wineries in the Cape Winelands.
Experience it: Spectacular South Africa
Vergelegen Estate
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Located in Somerset West in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Vergelegen Estate is one of the oldest and most prestigious South African wineries. Established in 1700, the estate has over 300 years of rich history and is home to historic Cape Dutch architecture, manicured gardens, and award-winning wines.
Vergelegen, meaning “situated far away” in Dutch, covers around 3,000 extraordinary hectares, with 146 hectares dedicated to vineyards producing a wide variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.
As part of our Spectacular South Africa luxury tour, you’ll indulge in a wine tasting of the estate’s premium wines while soaking up the stunning views of the Hottentots Holland Mountains. You can also explore the historic homestead, the library, and the mill ruins. Or enjoy a stroll through the ancient camphor tree forest or the 18 unique gardens, including the lovely rose garden.
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Boschendal Wine Estate
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Boschendal Wine Estate is a picturesque winery nestled between the Groot Drakenstein and Simonsberg Mountains in the Franschhoek Valley. Established in 1685, it’s one of the oldest and most celebrated South African wineries, with a remarkable history, diverse wines, and breathtaking scenery.
Spread over 2,400 hectares, the estate is a tranquil haven of flower beds, luscious lawns, shady okay trees, and fruit and vegetable gardens. As for the wines, Boschendal is known for its award-winning Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Méthode Cap Classique.
When you travel on our Spectacular South Africa luxury tour, you’ll savour a farm-to-table lunch at Boschendal Wine Estate. Chef Allistaire Lawrence presents a seasonal menu with local and ethically sourced produce harvested from the Werf Food Garden. After your meal, you can explore the restored Cape Dutch Manor House, original wine cellar, and dreamy rose garden. You can also admire the impressive collection of Cape Dutch furniture and artwork, before returning to Cape Town in a chauffeured vintage car.
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Babylonstoren
@babylonstoren
Set in the heart of the Drakenstein Valley between Franschhoek and Paarl, Babylonstoren is famed for its immaculate gardens, award-winning wines, and luxurious spa. This farm and wine estate is not only beautiful but historic, dating back to 1692.
The impressive gardens span over eight acres and are designed in the style of a traditional Cape Dutch farm. The gardens have over 300 varieties of plants, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. You can explore the gardens, learn about sustainable farming practices, and even take part in the harvesting.
One of the highlights of this wine estate is the Greenhouse restaurant. Walk through the tall oaks and arrive at the gorgeous Greenhouse, where you can enjoy picnic-style lunches and teas in the dappled sunlight of the greenhouse.
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Waterford Estate
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Located in the scenic Blaauwklippen Valley in Stellenbosch, South Africa’s most famous wine-producing region, Waterford Estate is renowned for its spectacular views and exceptional wine-tasting experiences.
Established in 1998, Waterford Estate cultivates a variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Shiraz. Their flagship wine, “The Jem”, is a blend of several grape varieties showcasing the diversity of the Stellenbosch terroir. Indulge in a wine-tasting of all their award-winning wines, or take part in the more unique wine and chocolate tasting.
Waterford Estate’s stunning setting adds to its allure. Surrounded by lush vineyards, fragrant citrus orchards, and breathtaking views of Helderberg Mountain, the estate creates an idyllic atmosphere. The Mediterranean-style architecture, including the terracotta-tiled buildings and courtyard, adds a touch of European elegance to the South African landscape.
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La Motte Wine Estate
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The esteemed La Motte winery is located in the magnificent Franschhoek Valley, one of the premier wine-producing regions in South Africa’s Cape Winelands. La Motte has a rich history dating back to 1695, with over three centuries spent refining its delectable wines reflecting the unique terroir of the Franschhoek Valley. Their notable wines include the La Motte Sauvignon Blanc, La Motte Chardonnay, and the La Motte Pierneef Shiraz Viognier.
The most striking features of La Motte are its gorgeous gardens and superbly restored Cape Dutch-style manor house, dating back to the 18th century. The manor house sits among the gardens, with its traditional whitewashed walls, thatched roof, and intricate gables. After exploring the charming building, you’ll find it’s a pleasure to get lost in the gardens. You can wander through the peaceful lily pond and the rose garden with over 1,000 rose bushes. There’s also the remarkable herb and vegetable garden that supplies the estate’s restaurant.
La Motte is also home to an impressive collection of Pierneef artworks, one of South Africa’s most celebrated artists. The Pierneef à La Motte Museum showcases a permanent exhibition of his works, alongside other rotating art exhibitions.
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Delaire Graff Estate
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Perched on the Helshoogte Pass between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, Delaire Graff Estate is one of the most exclusive South African wineries, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and unparalleled luxury.
The first thing you notice is how the design of the estate’s architecture intentionally maximizes the views. With floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces, you can fully immerse yourself in the scenes of the Stellenbosch mountains. The immaculate gardens showcase indigenous plants, vibrant flowers and manicured lawns. Meanwhile, the exquisite vineyards produce a range of award-winning wines, including Bordeaux-style red blends, Chardonnay, and Chenin Blanc.
You’ll also find an impressive collection of contemporary South African art. The estate houses sculptures, paintings, and installations by acclaimed artists such as Lionel Smit, Deborah Bell, and Dylan Lewis. Thoughtfully displayed throughout the estate, including the fine dining restaurants, the art collection adds to the sophisticated atmosphere. It’s no wonder the estate is known as the Jewel of the Cape Winelands.
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