The Cape truly shows off in winter. Even this year’s record-breaking rainfall hasn’t put a damper on things, with visitors falling in love with the Winelands’ lush greenery, verdant valleys, mountains and waterfalls. Forget drab, dreary or muted, this is a winter wonderland like no other.
Don’t believe us? Here are just eight ways to get a taste of the green season:
1. Grab your camera and head into the Helderberg Nature Reserve
The light in winter is pretty special. Softer than the bright glare of summer, it lends itself beautifully to photography. And on a clear day, the fresh, crisp air means everything looks more vibrant, colourful and alive. You’ll want to lace up your boots and head in the Helderberg Nature Reserve for a hike – or pack your camera and capture the reserve’s King Proteas (Protea cynaroides), fynbos (including Erica hirta), and Juffertjie-roer-by-die-nag (Struthiola myrsinites). The sweeping views across False Bay reward walkers and hikers – while birders will be in their element (look out for dazzling sunbirds, buzzards and owls).
2. Pick your own lavender
Lavender is in full bloom at the moment, which means the Cape’s winter wonderland includes swathes of purple. Make your way to the Canettevallei lavender and wine farm in Stellenbosch Kloof to pick your own lavender, or visit their shop to browse (and buy) lavender-infused soaps, gifts, shortbread and moskonfyt.
3. Enjoy a tasting with a difference
As Debbie-Lee Cockrell, the general manager of Erinvale Estate Hotel and Spa, points out wine tasting is only the beginning when it comes to tastings in the Winelands.
"In the Heart of the Helderberg you can experience wine and olive oil tastings at Morgenster, coffee and craft beer tastings at Lourensford, and an artisanal gin tasting at Erinvale," says Debbie-Lee. "There really is something for everyone. Which means you can base yourself at Erinvale and really get out and explore."
Taste the Heart of the Helderberg with a stay at Erinvale and a selection of specially-curated tastings around Somerset West: erinvale.co.za/activities/taste-the-heart-of-the-helderberg
4. Experience a winemaker's dinner
Unsurprisingly, when it comes to pairing food and wine, the chefs and winemakers in the Cape Winelands do it very, very well. Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa’s Winemakers Dinner takes place on the last Wednesday of every month, and they’ve hosted winemakers from Eagles’ Nest, Ken Forrester Wines, and Carsten Migliarina. If you’re yet to experience a Winemakers Dinner, now’s the time!
Alternatively, book a table at Stefan’s and experience the extraordinary culinary talents of Chef Stefan Bekker through a 7-course, fine dining experience to remember.
5. Soak up some art
There is something about a cool, rainy day that calls for poking around antique and collectible stores, browsing markets, and wandering around art galleries.
There are some incredible options too, like the Rupert Museum on the outskirts of Stellenbosch (housing South Africa’s best Pierneef collection) and the Art Curator Gallery at Lourensford (which boats a beautiful selection of South African Old Masters, Contemporary and African Art).
And if you’re staying at Erinvale you’ll love their eclectic collection of artwork – including pieces by South African artist, Kyle Rinquest.
6. Discover the Camellias at Vergelegen
The gardens at Vergelegen Wine Estate are legendary, and you don’t need to wait until summer to enjoy them! The Sundial Garden, Bamboo Garden, East Garden and Wetlands Garden can be enjoyed all year around, but the Camellia Garden of Excellence flowers between June and August – making it a must-do, especially as it is one of only 39 such gardens in the world, and the only one in Africa.
7. Hit the slopes on a mountain bike
There’s no reason to hibernate this winter. Lourensford’s network of MTB trails promises something special for every rider – including a pump track for the kids! It’s a great way to get moving, get active, and get plenty of fresh air this winter. And the views!
8. Find an excuse to drink champagne
Not that you need an excuse with Stellenbosch’s newest venue, Petites Bulles Champagne Lounge. Grab your girlfriends and head off for a morning, afternoon or evening of bubbles – and raise a glass to winter in the Winelands!
Petites Bulles Champagne Lounge can be found at 5 Herte Street, Stellenbosch.