Winelands - South Africa

For those who don't know, South Africa goes far beyond safari. One of the best things there is the wine regions of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl – also known as Winelands, close to Cape Town.

Wineries in South Africa are reputed to be some of the best in the world. There are several with tasting rooms, restaurants, accommodations and even spas!

The Winelands are approximately 40-60 minutes drive from Cape Town. Therefore, they are the perfect complement to your itinerary in South Africa.

Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl are the best known wine regions in South Africa, but Constantia is also an amazing wine destination around Cape Town. Keep reading to understand where the main wineries in South Africa are located, which ones to visit and how to organize your itinerary!

Wineries in South Africa: the main regions

South Africa has been producing wines since the arrival of its Dutch settlers, that is, for over 300 years! If you are a wine lover, you cannot miss this paradise. We managed to visit 3 wineries in South Africa in three different regions – Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Constantia, according to our itinerary and available time.

Stellenbosch

It is a university town and is one of the most talked about wine regions as it is the main wine producing region in South Africa. The distance from this city to Cape Town is 49 km, not even 1 hour by car.

The city is home to, in addition to the many wineries, universities (one of the best in South Africa!), shopping malls and a very charming center, with a very European atmosphere. The huge and beautiful houses that are on the streets close to the center draw attention, and we wonder how peaceful life there must be.

There are approximately 150,000 inhabitants and more than 150 wineries to visit!

franschhoek

This is one of the best wine regions in South Africa with a wide range of red, white and sparkling wines. The city is 80 km away, just over 1 hour from Cape Town and also has some of the best restaurants in the country. In addition, it offers luxurious accommodation as well as cozy inns.

Constantia

Although not the most talked about, Constantia is the oldest wine producing region in South Africa, its occupation for viniculture dates back to 1685. The wine route in Constantia is made up of 9 wineries and offers a delicious experience! Also, it is closer than the other wineries, only 15-20 minutes by car from the center of Cape Town.

Paarl

The Paarl wine route is famous for its spicy, full-bodied and red vintages and its white wines. Best known for its Shiraz, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinotage (South Africa's most famous grape, produced exclusively there). It is the second oldest wine region in South Africa and is adjacent to Franschhoek.

Here are the ttop 2 :

Jordan (Stellenbosch)

The Jordan Wine Estate has been producing world-class wines for nearly 25 years and has quickly built a reputation for fine wine, fine food and incredible accommodations.

Although it has only been in operation since 1993, the history of its land spans over 300 years. It passed through many hands and was acquired by the Jordan family in 1982. A decade later, it was taken over by Gary Jordan, heir, and his wife Kathy. As well as making great wines, one of the couple's initiatives is to create measures to bring women from the UK and South Africa to start their own careers within the wine industry.

Reserve wines are the true stars of Jordan. This range features 2015 Nine Yards Chardonnay, 2013 Cobblers Hill and 2014 Mellifera Natural Sweet.

If you're craving some fresh bread during your time in Jordan, head to their Bakery. You can choose from a selection of cold meats, breads, cheeses and pastries. It's a shame we left it to go at the end of the day, just at the time the bakery closed.

If you're looking for more than a light snack, head over to Jordan Restaurant. This place uses locally sourced seasonal ingredients. There is a vegetable and herb garden just outside the door, along with a wine barrel and wood burning oven.

There is also the option of staying within Jordan. Its suites with panoramic views of the vineyards have an effortless boutique hotel vibe – all with a balcony perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view. Most rooms also have a freestanding bathtub and fireplace.

Boschendal (Franschhoek)

Boschendal is one of South Africa's oldest wine estates, boasting award-winning vintages dating back to 1685, as well as producing fresh food straight from its gardens.

If you include the Franschhoek region in your itinerary, I highly recommend visiting this place! It is worth “wasting” at least an hour tasting the wines and enjoying the beautiful landscape. The tasting can be done outside or inside the restaurant, which is sophisticated, and the price varies according to the category of wines you choose.

Another incredible option is the guided tour of the cellars and vineyards, where they explain better about the wine production method and its characteristics.

Boschendal knows how to make an impressive bottle of wine. They specialize in classic and fruity wines and have won numerous awards. There is also a Farm Shop & Butchery with products from the farm and The Werf restaurant, which we thought was very good (although we only ordered a starter of cured meats with spices and toast).

In addition, the farm has chalet-style accommodations where guests can enjoy the best of farm life.

The only doubt, when staying there, will be exploring the property on foot, following trails through the orchards, having breathtaking views of the mountains, cycling or horseback riding, strolling through the cellars, swimming in the dams, sitting in the garden to read , relax in the spa… a true paradise!

For breakfast, guests can sit in the restaurant's picnic area or order baskets to be taken to their cabin. And they can buy fresh produce at the farm shop to prepare it in their accommodation. All chalets have cozy fireplaces, swimming pools and fully equipped kitchens. Ideal for couples, families and groups of friends.

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