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There are many reasons to visit the winelands such as wine tastings, great food, gorgeous scenery and a luxury vibe. If you just can’t get enough of this incredible destination, here are some alternative routes that you need to try once you’ve enjoyed the better known winelands of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.
Hermanus
Take a meander along the Hemel en Aarde (Heaven and Earth) Valley and you will encounter 13 superb wine farms dotted around these slopes.
A relatively new addition to the wine experience in Cape Town, this area produces outstanding Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc wines.
Wine tastings are offered at the following estates:
- Ataraxia Wine Farm
- Domaine des Dieux
- Hamilton Russell
- La Vierge
- Sumaridge Estate
- Southern Right
You can add meals in scenic spots at Bouchard Finlayson, Creation Wines, Spookfontein, Hermanuspietersfontein and Newton Johnson.
Swartland
Some of South Africa’s most innovative wines are produced in this large and geographically diverse area, along with gourmet olives and olive oils. Small charming towns line the way in this agricultural mecca which is reminiscent of the Mediterranean in many ways.
There are a surprising number of wine farms in this area, many of them will be happy to welcome you by appointment, so start planning early.
Robertson Valley Wine Route
Here you will encounter some familiar names such as Graham Beck Wines, Klipdrift Brandy Distillery and Bon Courage Estate, among the 40 wine farms found in this region. The Robertson Valley Wine Route, known as Route 62, is the longest in the world.
At Le Roux & Fourie Vignerons you’ll come across unexpected rustic charm. Hand-painted murals watch over you while you dine on hearty homemade meals accompanied by enchanting red and crisp white wine.
The magic continues with wine tastings and pairings offered at most of these fine establishments.
Darling
Famous for its blooming spring flower displays, Darling is also home to a bouquet of fine wineries secluded in these natural fynbos surroundings. You can make a day of it here with wine tastings and a show on the Darling Wine and Art Experience or settle for the unique hospitality with a meal on one of the estates.
Tulbagh
The wider variety of terroirs in this region result in an equally diverse range of wines along the Tulbagh Wine Route. Every year this region produces a number of gold and double gold Veritas-award-winning vintages.
Get on the Route
Get in touch if you would like to enjoy a wine tasting extravaganza as part of your Southern African safari.
