The Cape Winelands are perhaps the most scenic region of South Africa. Its visitors experience green rolling hills drenched in bright sunshine, packed with endless rows of sweeping vines. For those holiday makers who enjoy relaxed, leisurely days filled with great food and world-class wine, a trip to the Cape Winelands will not disappoint. Surrounded by magnificent mountains and lush valleys, the scenic Cape Winelands are located in the Western Province of South Africa, in-between the West Coast and the Overberg Coast. The Winelands include the towns of Franschhoek, Paarl, Stellenbosch and Wellington, and Breede River Valley. The region is home to many world-class vineyards, celebrated the world over for their whites, reds, sherries, ports and brandies. But which vineyards are the most breathtaking?
The Cape Winelands Region.
Babylonstoren
One of the most breathtaking wineries in The Cape Winelands is Babylonstoren, which is one of the oldest wine farms in the whole of the country. It dates back to 1692 and lies in the Drakenstein Valley in the heart of the region. Babylonstoren is known for its eight acres of gardens — home to a vast fruit and vegetable garden, which visitors can explore. Babylonstoren serve incredible platters of food in their wine tasting room, and also have a their own renowned restaurant, Babel. The vineyard also boasts a spa and a juicery. Babylonstoren is a super-stylish spot, and draws tourists in from all over the world.
Tokara
The Tokara Estate is another truly breathtaking vineyard. Tokara has the best views and most stunning architecture of all the wine estates in the Cape Winelands. Situated on the crest of the Helshoogte Pass, about 5 kilometres from Stellenbosch, from this estate you can experience views of Idas Valley, False Bay and the Simonsberg Mountains. If you enjoy Sauvignon Blanc, head to Tokara – theirs is sublime. Their restaurant, also named Tokara, offers fine dining with spectacular views, and is well worth a visit.
Sunset over a vineyard with Table Mountain in the background, Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands, Western Cape, South Africa.
Haute Cabrière
Haute Cabrière is the quirkest vineyard in the Cape Winelands region because of its whimsical setting. Sitting in the heart of the stunning Franschhoek Wine Valley, Haute Cabrière is a 30 hectare farm, which has a tasting room that feels like very much like a cave. Their outdoor patio provides views of the whole valley, and if you’re a chardonnay fan, this is the winery for you.
Vergelegen Estate
The Vergelegen Estate is one of the oldest-established wine estates in the region of Stellenbosch. And it’s the the ideal winery for nature lovers. If you enjoy exquisite countryside views, herb gardens, and the sight of local cattle grazing in pastures, then head to Vergelegen. Informal dining at the Stables bistro, and fine dining at The Camphors are two more reasons why this estate is so popular.
Waterford Wine Estate
The Waterford Wine Estate is an Italian style winery. This 120-hectare wine farm was established in 1998, and is nestled in the picturesque Blaauwklippen Valley. The Estate boasts large citrus groves, lush, rolling lawns, and fragrant, sweet-smelling lavender. Waterford feels warm, friendly and personal. And their excellent wine selection arguably represent the best that the region has to offer.
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