Cape Winelands
Dating back to the mid-1600s, the iconic Cape Winelands is renowned for being one of the world’s most celebrated wine routes. This picturesque region showcases hundreds of esteemed wine producers and offers a rich heritage of grape cultivation.
Everything you need to know
The Cape Winelands is home to one of the world’s most renowned wine routes, showcasing hundreds of distinguished wine producers. As the largest and oldest winemaking region, its history dates back to the mid-1600s.
In 1652, Dutch settlers arrived in South Africa and discovered that the Western Cape’s fertile land and favorable climate were ideal for grape cultivation. This led to the establishment of numerous wine farms, with the first wine being produced by Jan van Riebeeck in 1659.
Today, the Cape Winelands is a treasure trove of rich history and cultural heritage, featuring some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. Nestled within lush, fertile valleys and rolling vineyards, this celebrated region produces some of the finest wines in the world.
Where is the Cape Winelands located?
The Cape Winelands is a picturesque collection of farmsteads, towns, and villages stretching from the West Coast to the Overberg. Located less than an hour from Cape Town, this scenic countryside region nestles in the valleys alongside the Cape Fold mountains.
Historically, the epicenter of the Cape Winelands included regions such as Stellenbosch, Breede River Valley, Drakenstein, Witzenberg, and Langeberg. Today, however, the Winelands have expanded beyond these traditional districts to encompass newer vineyards in areas like Constantia, Walker Bay, Darling, and more.
When to visit the Cape Winelands
The hot, dry months between November and March offer great opportunities to dine alfresco and sip on delicious chilled wines in the sunshine. February to March is harvest season, so you’ll be able to catch the vines rich and heavy with grapes.
April and May see aging vines take on striking splashes of burnt amber, orange, yellow and brown. The weather is lovely and temperate during this time.
The winter months from June to August bring the rain, and transform the winelands into a blanket of green. This is a great time to cosy up next to a roaring fire and enjoy a range of delicious reds.
In Spring, the Winelands transform once again with sprinkles of wildflowers across the landscape. The weather from September to November is lovely and mild – the perfect time to enjoy the scenic Winelands.
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Franschhoek
The valley of Franschhoek is regarded as the gourmet capital of the Cape, home to some of the finest restaurants in the country. This gourmand’s paradise offers exceptional local and international cuisine crafted by top chefs, all set in a stunning landscape. With a rich French Huguenot heritage, Franschhoek hosts numerous wine, art, and music festivals. The secluded valley, with its natural beauty, features sprawling vineyards at the foot of majestic mountain ranges. Visitors can choose from a variety of exquisite accommodations, ranging from gracious Cape Dutch-style manor houses to contemporary hotels.
Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch, the most famous wine-producing region in South Africa, is home to approximately 150 wine farms and estates. Known as the birthplace of Pinotage, the region is also celebrated for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Bordeaux wines. The town is encircled by lush vineyards and mountains, offering a picturesque backdrop for its numerous quaint coffee shops, restaurants, museums, and more. Its charming oak-lined streets are adorned with historic Cape Dutch, Georgian, and Victorian-style buildings. Visitors can choose from a wide array of top-class accommodation options, ensuring a memorable stay in this renowned wine region.
Constantia
Constantia is where the story of South African wine began. Home to the country’s first wine estate, established by Governor Simon van der Stel in 1685, this leafy suburb lies on the southern slopes of the iconic Table Mountain, just a 20-minute drive from Cape Town’s center, making it perfect for a day visit. Constantia is renowned for its cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc, Bordeaux Blend wines, and sweet dessert wines made from Muscat Blanc. The area features several historic manor houses and hosts some of the Cape’s top restaurants, offering a range of dining experiences from à la carte to bistro-style eateries.
