The age-old history of this humble town and its generations-old traditions has many believing the region hasn’t developed with the times… they couldn’t be more wrong.
We found the birthplace of chocolate pinotage, as well as a white Pinotage, plus an entirely new varietal (a first in South Africa). That’s pretty innovative in our books…
That’s even before mentioning everything else Wellington has going for it: settings that beg you to linger longer, dog-friendly hiking trails, beautiful places to rest your weary wine-filled head, and delicious food.
Not only is Wellington a wine lover’s saviour (which makes it worth a visit in itself), its slow-paced, intimate way of doing things is a much-needed antidote to the stress of the past year.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or weekend stay, read on to discover the best of the Wellington Wine Route.
Pairings with a view
Diemersfontein Wine & Country Estate
The undisputed home of the original Coffee Chocolate Pinotage, Diemersfontein is one of the better-known wine estates in Wellington, and actually the Western Cape. But there’s so much more to the farm than that! What started as a family retreat for the Sonnenbergs is now a wine-tasting, event-hosting, food-loving haven. After a spot of swishing, swirling and swallowing in the Tasting Room, take a detour past Proe, its innovative restaurant, where you can design your own cheese and charcuterie platter. Then, why not extend your visit with a tranquil evening at the country estate guesthouse?
Winetasting at Diemersfontein Wine & Country Estate.
Bosman Family Vineyards
Originally part of the 260-year-old cellar, the tasting room at Bosman Family Vineyards welcomes guests with beautifully kept grounds and truly spectacular wines, courtesy of winemaker Corlea Fourie. While everyone expects a lineup of cabernet and chardonnay, oenophiles will be amazed to discover new-to-South-Africa varietals, such as the Nero d’Avola, the Optenhorst Chenin Blanc and Fides, an orange wine made with skin-on white grapes!
As part of the tasting experience, guests may wander through the cellar, and if you look down through a framed patch of glass flooring, you’re able to see where the old wine vats once stood. Those looking to spend the night can rest their head in ultimate country comfort at Vineyard Cottage, a self-catering farm-style house, with a private splash pool and vineyard-covered front and back porches overlooking the valley and mountains.
Bosman Family Vineyards.
Family and pet-friendly activities
Doolhof Wine Estate
Running through Doolhof Estate is the picturesque Kromme River that sets a wonderfully tranquil scene. While the farm has an elegant tasting room where you can sample its award-winning wines, outside is where the magic happens. From river walks (pooches are welcome), mountain-biking trails for adults and children, and secluded picnics, dinner and breakfast baskets to a labyrinth and Africamps glamping complete with your very own private hot tub, it’s easy to get lost in the maze of activities.
Also on the estate is the five-star Grande Dedale Country House, an elegantly restored Cape Dutch Manor House, complete with a library, tea lounge with a fireplace, grand verandah, and an outdoor pool and spa room.
Cycling at Doolhof Wine Estate.
Dunstone Country Estate
At the foot of Bainskloof Pass, this picturesque and family-run boutique winery is simultaneously a tranquil respite in the country thanks to a range of luxury accommodation options and excellent wine, and also a perfect spot for a family day out. The Stone Kitchen bistro is child-friendly to the max, offering a kids’ menu, indoor and outdoor play areas, with a Lego table, climbing wall and mini-kitchen.
Views at Dunstone Country Estate.
Click HERE for the full list.