Stellenbosch is blessed with some of the most spectacular wine farms in the country, indeed the world, offering spellbinding views, scrumptious farm meals, superb wines, fun activities and a fantastic atmosphere.
With so many brilliant options – the City of Oaks has more than 200 – it’s hard to know where to begin. So, we went in search of the best, where you can wine and dine to your heart’s content.
Lanzerac
The third-oldest farm in Stellenbosch (founded just 13 years after the town itself, over 330 years ago), and the first to commercially bottle and sell pinotage, Lanzerac is a majestic slice of history and a quintessential Winelands landmark. It’s risen from the ashes of a devastating fire in 2017 to emerge even more beautiful than ever.
The wine: Three ranges, including heritage limited releases, the cellar master’s unusual blends, a pinotage rosé and MCC. Various tastings are offered, as well as a wine-and-chocolate pairing, in the elegant Tasting Room or on its verandah overlooking the vines.
The food: Finer dining at The Manor Kitchen (for breakfast, afternoon tea, Sunday lunch and daily dinners); casual daytime meals at the Deli; gourmet pub grub and small plates at the Taphuis; whisky pairing in the Craven Lounge, a cocktail and cigar bar.
There’s more: Lanzerac Spa offers exquisite hydrotherapy (and a special Night Spa Experience until 31 May); manicured gardens to explore; The View Point for super-special private picnics.
Hidden Valley
In the foothills of the imposing Helderberg, Hidden Valley has grown into a foodie destination of note, with an impressive setting and beautiful views. The estate is also a WWF Conservation champion.
The wine: Two hand-crafted ranges (Hidden Valley and Sebastian), including reds, whites, rosés and MCC. The Tasting Centre is a modern wood-and-glass building amid the vineyards, with a wide terrace. The tasting includes five wines and complimentary estate olives, plus there’s a wine-and-chocolate pairing and a cheese and charcuterie platter.
The food: Modern SA cuisine (3 or 6 courses) by chef Bertus Basson at award-winning Overture; laidback, self-service alfresco meals with spectacular views at The Deck.
There’s more: Lush gardens and a tranquil dam; a nature trail that passes through a wild olive forest; a special vineyard sunset wine-tasting experience for groups (10 or more).
Stay The Bush Lodge is a stunning timber mini-villa, with unbelievable west-facing views.
Tokara
Perched on the edge of a mountain overlooking a valley of vineyards, between the Banhoek Conservancy and Simonsberg Nature Reserve, Tokara is one of the most breathtaking spots to spend the day.
The wine: The focus is on sauvignons, but other varietals also feature in two ranges (Tokara Premium and Reserve), plus MCC and a potstill brandy. Tastings are done in the stunning cellar or the art-filled Tasting Lounge. All wines are available by the glass at the Restaurant, alongside wines from other estates near and far.
The food: Elegant, terroir-focused dishes at glass-walled Tokara Restaurant (à la carte lunches and 4- or 6-course set menus for dinner); family-friendly breakfasts and lunches at Tokara Delicatessen.
There’s more: Olive oils are produced next door to the Deli; an impressive art collection (including three rare William Kentridge tapestries hanging in the Restaurant) and sculpture garden at the Deli.
Click HERE to see the full list.