The Cape Winelands is a lush meander of estates that each offer breathtaking views as well as gourmet dining but only a select few have something extra in store for guests. We’ve visited estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl and Durbanville and we’ve found some delightful things to share…
Tea Ritual @ Babylonstoren
Staying at Babylonstoren as a hotel guest gains you special privileges in terms of securing a spot on this intriguing journey through the zen garden. This tea ritual offers many different teas to choose from each with an assortment of healing properties. Plus, there’s a tasting menu with treats such as bliss balls! View our picture gallery blog showcasing the wondrous sights at this organic working wine farm.
Picnic Pods @ Warwick Estate
Many of the wine estates in Stellenbosch offer prepacked picnics but Warwick Wine Estate estate is special because not only do they offer vegan picnics (with nut cheese!) but they’re also the only estate we’ve discovered that has picnic pods. The wooden pods curve as if from the earth and blend in with the surrounds. An added bonus: the easy-to-use online booking system allows you to select your preferred picnic spot, named according to their wines.
Eagle Encounters @ Spier
Spiers gifted this land for the conservation of birds of prey in the region. The farm now offers guests the opportunity to connect with the ecology of the area and help to conserve the future of these birds. See everything from owls to eagles! There are different prices for children and adults with the proceeds all going towards the protection of the birdlife here and their winelands haven.
Caves @ Klein Roosboom
There are many different tasting experiences that you can try out in the Cape Winelands such as cellar set-ups and outdoor picnic-style offerings. Klein Roosboom takes this to the next level though, with literal holes in the wall, each a “cave” where guests can taste the delicious wines created by this little boutique.
Red Ladies @ Vrede en Lust
Vrede en Lust is one of the most picturesque estates on the list with views of the Simonsberg Mountain range and acres of newly cultivated vineyards. Apart from their rich history and beautifully bottled vintages, they also invite you to take a tour with their “red ladies”, a group of women dressed in red as the name suggests. These are your guides and operate the tasting room where you can enjoy the bubbly uniformity along with the roar of a crackling fire.
Goat Tower @ Fairview Cheese & Wine
The Cape Winelands extends to the furthest reaches of the province with Fairview being the furthest estate on our list. The drive is worth it though because of the bakery, bistro, deli and tasting room that prides itself, naturally, on its cheese! Something to really astonish you though, is the goat tower where the farm’s famous goats reside. The spiral bridge shown above is easily navigated by these quirky creatures and they can be gazed upon by guests in the middle of the estate.
Are you inspired to uncover more of the hidden gems that exist on the Cape Winelands? Let us know about some unique attractions that you’ve discovered.
