Wine Tours of South Africa

Cape Town Wine Region: Constantia

Found a short distance from Cape Town's city centre, the Constantia wine route unfolds as a haven of refinement and luxury. With a storied heritage dating back to the 1680s, this esteemed region boasts some of South Africa's most prestigious wine farms. Constantia's breath-taking vistas, lush vineyards, and historic estates converge to create an unforgettable experience.

Groot Constantia, one of the oldest wine estates, stands as a testament to the country's venerable wine tradition. This iconic estate continues to produce exceptional wines that grace tables worldwide. Beyond savouring award-winning varietals, Constantia wine tours offer an immersive journey into the region's rich history and heritage.

Renowned for its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc Semillon blends, and sweet wines, Constantia is home to the legendary Vin de Constance and Grand Constants. Elegant Bordeaux Reds complete the region's impressive repertoire.

In Constantia, the art of winemaking is intertwined with the land, people, and tradition. Go on an exclusive exploration of this idyllic wine route, where every sip tells a story of legacy and excellence – it’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Cape Town.

Constantia Accommodation

Located just 20 minutes from Cape Town's city centre, Constantia's wine route is effortlessly accessible via scenic routes, making it an ideal day-trip or longer stay destination. Whether by car or guided tour, reaching Constantia is a seamless experience, allowing you to focus on savouring the region's exceptional wines and natural beauty.

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Franschhoek Wine Region

Franschhoek, the crown jewel of the Cape Winelands, is renowned for its exceptional wines and gourmet experiences. This charming village, set in sweeping vineyards and towering mountains, offers an unparalleled wine tasting adventure.

With a focus on crafting world-class wines, Franschhoek is particularly famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillon, and Chardonnay varietals. For those with a taste for bubbly, the dedicated Cap Classique Route is a must-visit.

The town's rich history, rooted in French Huguenot heritage, laid the foundation for its wine excellence. In the late 1600s, Dutch settlers established Franschhoek as a halfway station, later granting the land to French refugees. These pioneers brought their viniculture expertise, cultivating vineyards in the fertile soil. The name ‘Franschhoek' (French Corner) reflects this legacy.

Today, Franschhoek's elegance and charm is perfect for all types of travellers, including families, honeymooners, and travelling friends. Boutique art galleries, world-class restaurants, and wine farms dot the landscape, making it an internationally recognised food and wine capital. Franschhoek makes up a part of the top South Africa wine tasting tours.

Franschhoek Accommodation

With a wide variety of places to stay in Franschhoek, accommodation can be described as luxurious and chic with the backdrop of stunning mountain and vineyard views. A wide range of accommodation options are available, from a private villa for a family holiday to deluxe honeymoon suites. Some accommodations have facilities for mountain biking, horse riding, day tours, wine tasting, spa treatments, golf, guided walks and picnics held on picturesque grounds.

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Stellenbosch: South Africa Wine Country

Simon van der Stel, governor of the Cape named the small island on the Eerste River as Stellenbosch in 1679. The fertile land and the natural beauty of the area resulted in the settlement by farmers within a year of its discovery and became the Colony of Stellenbosch. Stellenbosch's rich wine history has earned its reputation as a premier South African wine destination.

The Stellenbosch wine routes connect a network of some 200 wineries that offer experiences for both wine lovers and tourists. With five sub routes that highlight the characteristics of award-winning wine styles, geographical location and climates, the Stellenbosch wine routes are a must see for visitors to Cape Town and its surrounds.

Wine enthusiasts can explore the region through various activities, savouring an impressive range of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Pinotage, Bordeaux-style blends, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, and Sauvignon Blanc. Stellenbosch wines are renowned for their rich, full-bodied flavours, balanced acidity, and elegant tannins.

Experience the essence of Stellenbosch with wine tours that cater to every interest and preference. From thrilling helicopter rides to leisurely bike tours, hop-on-hop-off excursions, tractor wine tours, and exclusive private experiences, discover the region's stunning landscapes and exceptional wines.

For a more immersive experience, wander through Stellenbosch's picturesque streets, savouring local cuisine, exploring museums, and uncovering the town's historic heart at Dorp Street. Here, the past and present blend seamlessly.

Stellenbosch Accommodation

Stellenbosch's diverse accommodation promises a luxurious retreat, blending sleek design with personalised service. Catering to all tastes and travel styles, this charming town presents a range of options.

Romantic getaways find their perfect haven in intimate boutique hotels, while families delight in spacious villas and gardens, ideal for quality time together. Groups are warmly accommodated in residences with communal living areas, fostering connection and community.

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Wine Tours In South Africa: Route 62 Wine Region

Explore the lesser-known Route 62, a scenic wine route that winds its way through the Western Cape. It follows the Cape R62 road from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth via Klein Karoo and the Garden Route. The Cape route was created to link Cape Town to Port Elizabeth through the scenic route that passes farming towns.

Often missed by motorists on the N2 Highway, Route 62 is known for its fruit orchards and wine producing towns. Dubbed as the longest wine route in the Western Cape, Route 62 covers the towns of Wellington, Tulbagh, Worcester, Robertson and the Klein Karoo. You can travel the route and enjoy the scenery that includes rolling, verdant mountain ranges, quaint farming towns and farmlands.

Go on an unforgettable wine tasting odyssey, where exceptional vintages meet gourmet cuisine, warm hospitality, and breath-taking experiences. Beyond the vineyards, thrilling discover safaris in South Africa with Big Five experiences within wildlife reserves and game parks found in the Western and Eastern Cape. Explore historic landmarks and cultural attractions that reveal the area's rich heritage. Discover vibrant art and craft production, showcasing local creativity. Unwind in serene botanical gardens, bursting with natural beauty.

Route 62 Accommodation

Explore the scenic Route 62 wine trail with ease, pairing exceptional vintages with carefully selected accommodations. To fully immerse yourself in the experience, plan your journey by speaking to one of our Africa Safari Experts.

Route 62's diverse accommodations offer a range of choices, from charming guest houses rich in local character to authentic farm stays that provide a taste of rural life. Family-run hotels exude warmth and hospitality, while self-catering retreats cater to those seeking independence.

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Hemel-en-Aarde Valley Wine Region

Hemel-en-Aarde is located behind the seaside resort of Hermanus. Hemel-en-Aarde is an Old Dutch and Afrikaans term translating to ‘heaven and earth'. This name was coined because of the height of the hills surrounding the valley that seem to touch the sky. Initially set aside as grazing land for Dutch settlers and then for sheep and wheat, Hemel-en-Aarde had its first wine growing property in 1975.

Hemel-en-Aarde Valley is renowned for its exceptional Pinot Noir, earning its title as South Africa's Pinot Noir capital. An interesting fact about Hemel-en-Aarde is that many of the wine farms are still owned and operated by the original families that broke ground to start planting vineyards.

Despite being South Africa's Pinot Noir capital, Hemel-en-Aarde is home to a little over 20 producers. This means, production of wines is small but exclusive. Hemel-en-Aarde boasts the greatest number of trophies, gold medals, five star ratings and classic scores per case of wine produced.

Ninety minutes from Cape Town, visitors can explore Hemel-en-Aarde to experience top South Africa wine tasting tours. From breath-taking scenery on both sides, enjoy a scenic 35km (21.7 miles) drive along the Hemel-en-Aarde wine route.

Hemel-en-Aarde Valley Accommodation

Tucked away behind the iconic whale-watching town of Hermanus, the Hemel-en-Aarde wine region beckons with its unique blend of luxury, natural beauty, and exceptional wines. The region's moderate climate, gentle sea breezes, and rolling mountains create an idyllic setting for wine enthusiasts and travellers seeking a tranquil retreat.

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Riebeek-Kasteel Wine Region

Discover Riebeek Kasteel, South Africa's oldest town, named after Jan van Riebeeck, a 17th-century Cape commander, this charming destination lies 80km (49.7 miles) north of Cape Town. Despite its proximity, Riebeek Kasteel boasts a unique climate, with sweltering summers and mild winters, receiving most of its rainfall between May and August.

Surrounded by rolling vineyards and the majestic Kasteelberg, Riebeek Kasteel's winemaking heritage dates back to the early 20th century. Renowned for its exceptional Chenin Blanc, Shiraz, and Pinotage, the town has become a haven for wine enthusiasts.

Beyond its exceptional wines, Riebeek Kasteel offers a diverse range of attractions that showcase its unique charm. You can explore the town's thriving olive and wheat industries and experience the vibrant culture at the celebrated Annual Olive Festival. Craft beer and olive tastings provide a delightful culinary experience, while fine art galleries and cultural museums offer a glimpse into the town's rich history. The bustling village market is a treasure trove of local goods, and game drives through the countryside reveal breath-taking scenery.

Paarl Wine Region

Paarl, a storied South African wine region, boasts a rich winemaking heritage dating back to the 17th century. Named after the Dutch word for ‘pearl', Paarl is exactly that with its iconic granite boulders. This historic town has paved the way for numerous firsts in South African winemaking.

Paarl's pioneering spirit is evident in its milestones: the first branded cellar in 1918, introducing cool fermentation in 1937, and the esteemed Nederburg Auction of Rare Cape Wines in 1975. The region has also made history with innovative blends, such as white Pinotage, Tempranillo, Tinta Amarella, and Tannat, as well as Pinotage fortified dessert wine.

Located just 45 minutes from Cape Town, Paarl invites wine enthusiasts to indulge in its picture-perfect vineyards, historic landmarks, and stunning Cape Dutch architecture, all nestled beneath the majestic Paarl Mountain.

Paarl, a haven for families and couples alike, offers an idyllic blend of adventure and romance. Explore the picturesque landscape through hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking trails, bathed in Paarl's Mediterranean climate of sun-kissed summer days and refreshing afternoon breezes, with mild winters.

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Ready To Book The Best Wine Tours In South Africa?

South Africa's wine regions offer a unique adventure steeped in history, culture, tradition, and the celebration of wine and winemaking. For your next Cape Town visit, be sure to explore some of the world's best South African wineries: