When is the Best Time to Visit the Cape Winelands?

Although many believe the best time to visit the Cape Winelands in South Africa is during the summer (December to February), each season in the Winelands brings its visitors something special.

With a leafy, green and mountainous landscape, this area provides the perfect backdrop for sampling the country’s best wine and some of the finest cuisine found in South Africa. There is something for everyone within these wine valleys, but deciding when to go to the Cape Winelands generally depends on which other destinations you wish to visit on your holiday.

 

Month by Month Guide for Travelling to the Cape Winelands: 

Visiting the Cape Winelands from January to March

Walking in the vineyards of the Cape Winelands, South Africa | Go2Africa

January is a busy time of year to explore this area as it’s just after the Christmas holidays and right in the middle of summer. This is the best time to visit the Cape Winelands in South Africa for guaranteed sunshine, pleasant evenings, and most importantly the opportunity to visit wine estates that are some of the oldest and most prestigious in the country (some dating back to 1690).

February is the one of the best times to go to the Cape Winelands because of the balmy summer weather. It can get very hot during this period, especially in the inland areas, but these conditions are perfect for enjoying a chilled glass of dry white surrounded by award-winning vineyards.

Harvest season begins in March and is an ideal time to experience South African wine country. The days are warm and there is little to no wind during this month. With a myriad of world-class wine estates to choose from, you can also peruse some of the country’s premier art galleries.

 

Visiting the Cape Winelands from April to AugustDelaire Graaff in Stellenbosch, the Cape Winelands, South Africa | Go2Africa

 

April & May are the autumn months in the Cape, the days start to become cooler and there is a chance of light rain, but this is still a great time to visit these famed vineyards. The wine estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl and Wellington are far quieter during these months.

June can be a rainy month and there is even a chance of some snow in the months ahead. Don’t expect heavy snowfall, the mountains surrounding the Cape Winelands is generally just snowcapped for a few days. It creates a romantic ambience, where cold winter afternoons and evenings are spent by a roaring log fire, sipping local vintages.

July & August are cold winter months for South Africa, but there is never not a good time for wine tasting. There are numerous festivals during these months that are held annually like ‘Taste the Helderberg’ in Stellenbosch, or the ‘Robertson Slow Food and Wine Festival’. There is always a reason to celebrate in wine country.

 

Visiting the Cape Winelands from September to DecemberCape Dutch architecture in the Cape Winelands, South Africa | Go2Africa

 

September is the first month of spring in the country and it is the best time to visit the Cape Winelands if you’re looking to avoid the crowds before the busy summer season. Both September and October experience pleasant temperatures during the day, but not the extreme heat of summer. It can still be a little cooler in the evenings.

November right through to January keeps the wine estates busy with both tourists and locals. It’s considered the best time to visit the Cape Winelands because the small towns that feature classic Cape Dutch architecture are taking full advantage of the sunshine and clear, blue skies.

December is a busy month; the days are generally hot, the heat stretching well into the evening. It’s best to book in advance for wine tastings and food pairings – be prepared for a more bustling Cape Winelands. Rates on accommodation tend to be higher at this time of year.

 

Ready to Start planning your Trip of a Lifetime?

Chat with someone who’s been there. Get in touch with one of our Africa Travel Experts to help tailor-make a trip to the Cape Winelands that’s right for you.

Explore these Cape Winelands Resources
Cape Winelands, South Africa
Your private balcony offers a great view over the winelands
Intimate and romantic, the dining areas at Delaire Graaf offer a special experience for a celebratory trip.
Ideal for honeymooners and for discerning guests looking for an extra-special stay, Delaire Graaf goes the extra mile.
The restaurant interior is stylish and elegant, with a varied menu to suit different palates.
Spend a leisurely lunch or afternoon out on the main restaurant deck, enjoying delectable meals and fine South African wine.
Delaire Graaf is situated in the heart of the exceptional Cape Winelands, with some of the best views in the region.
Your private deck includes a plunge pool and comfortable loungers. Soak up the gorgeous views!

Delaire Graff Estate

Activities Travellers Enjoyed
Cultural visits Day tours Hiking Historical tours
Cape Winelands, South Africa
Enjoy refreshments in the garden. Spend time in the swimming pool by the spa. Each open-plan suite has a luxurious en-suite bathroom and lounge area. Luxurious en-suite marble bathrooms. Bedrooms contain contemporary accessories and furniture. Take a dip in the pool at Babylonstoren.

Babylonstoren

Activities Travellers Enjoyed
Biking Canoeing Guided walks Spa treatments