Cape Winelands

Founded in 1679, Stellenbosch is South Africa's second-oldest town and the heart of the Cape wine industry. The town's historic oak-lined streets, Cape Dutch architecture, and vibrant student culture create a unique atmosphere. Major estates include Waterford, Jordan, Delaire Graff, and Rust en Vrede. Stellenbosch is particularly famous for Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, and red blends. The Stellenbosch Wine Route was South Africa's first, established in 1971.

Franschhoek ("French Corner") was founded by French Huguenot refugees in 1688 and is today South Africa's culinary capital. The Franschhoek Wine Tram is the region's most popular activity — a hop-on, hop-off experience combining a vintage tram and open-air bus across 8 estates. Top restaurants include La Petite Colombe, Epice, and Reuben's, many featuring on the World's 50 Best lists. The valley produces exceptional Chardonnay and MCC sparkling wines.

Paarl is home to some of the Cape's largest and oldest wine estates, including Nederburg, Fairview (famous for its goats on the tower), and the KWV Wine Emporium. The Paarl Rock — the world's second-largest granite outcrop after Uluru — dominates the landscape. The Drakenstein mountains provide a spectacular backdrop, and the region is known for excellent-value wines and relaxed tasting rooms.

Beyond tastings, the Cape Winelands offer chocolate-and-wine pairings, olive oil tastings, cheese platters, and gourmet multi-course lunches paired with estate wines. Many farms offer horse riding, mountain biking, and hiking through the vineyards. For a unique experience, book a blending session where you create your own custom wine blend to take home.