A
Guide to South Africa's Winelands by Kobus van der Merwe
In
1652 the Dutch East India company establishment a refreshment station at
the Cape of Good Hope aiming to provide fresh food to the company's fleet
on voyages to India and surrounding areas. As a result of this trading
station South Africa now boasts a flourishing wine industry and colourful,
multi-cultural nation.
The
fertile soil and Mediterranean climate of the Western Cape, makes the Cape
Winelands one of the most renowned wine producing areas in the world. The
Western Cape is also cooler than its position of 34º South of the
equator might suggest, making the area ideal for growing a wide range of
noble vine varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon,
Shiraz and Pinot Noir. The traditional wine growing areas along the coastal
regions are seldom more than 50km from the ocean and are exposed to cool
breezes blowing in from the sea.
All
the wine grape varietals cultivated in South Africa, belong to the Vitis
vinifera species, originally brought from Europe. Unfortunately these European
vines were susceptible to phylloxera and as a result many South African
viticulturists these days often have to graft their vines onto American
rootstock in order to resist the insect.
Although
Cape Town and the nearby Boland basin is best-known for it's superb Bordeaux-style
red wines, the wine-producing regions of the province extends further north-
and eastwards and has established itself as producer of world-class red,
white, fortified and sparkling wines from a wide range of varietals.
Constantia The
oldest and one of the most famous wine farms in the area is Groot Constantia,
which was granted to governor Simon van der Stel in 1685, by the Dutch
East India Company. The estate is located on the Southern Slopes of Table
Mountain and is still world-renowned for it's superb wines and breathtaking
location. It's beautiful Cape Dutch homestead also forms part of the Iziko
South African National Museums. The Constantia region also features such
formidable estates as Steenberg well know for it's Reserve Sauvignon Blanc
and Semmilon while the nearby Buitenverwachting produces outstanding Chardonnay.
Both estates feature award-winning restaurants.
Boland From
Cape Town, the Winelands spread north-east and eastwards to the beautiful
Boland basin with Stellenbosch,
Paarl, Franschhoek and
Wellington being the most prominent
producers. Some of the oldest wine farms in South Africa are situated in
and around this beautiful Cape Dutch village, which at over 300-years old,
is the oldest town in the country. Although the area hosts an endless amount
of superior wine estates, well-known farms towards the east include the
Shiraz and Port producing Alto; the prolific Blaauwklippen estate which
produces one of the only Zinfandel's in the region; the red wine producing
Delheim; the famous Lanzerac estate and hotel; the prominent Middelvlei;
the international award-winning red wine producing Rust en Vrede estate;
Vriesenhof with it's outstanding white wines; the exclusive Engelbrecht
Els estate and the beautiful Tokara with it's adjoining restaurant managed
by famous local chef and saucier Etienne Bonthuys.
Towards
the west of the town there's the well-known Beyerskloof, famous for it's
award-winning Pinotage; the superior sparkling wine producing House of
JC Le Roux, the scenic Meerlust estate with it's legendary Rubicon blend;
the family-run Overgaauw; the "Cap Classique" producing Villiera and Zevenwacht
estate.
The
nearby Franschhoek, which translates as "French corner" also boasts some
of the country's oldest estates: The beautiful Boschendal with it's typical
Cape Dutch homestead; Cabriere Estate with it's flagship range of Pierre
Jourdan "Methode Cape Classique" sparkling wines; Graham Beck with it's
signature Brut Blanc de Blanc sparkling wine and Rhona Muscadel; and the
beautiful La Motte estate which produces outstanding Shiraz.
Overberg On
the otherside of the Franschhoek and Hottentots Holland mountain ranges,
the Overberg region includes quaint
villages such as McGregor, Montagu and Robertson - the latter boasts the
De Wetshof estate, owned by the prolific Chardonnay producer Danie de Wet,
while the nearby Hemel-and-Aarde valley close to Hermanus is home to such
spectacular wineries as Hamilton Russel with it's well-known Pinot Noir
and the legendary Bouchard Finlayson.
Swartland North
of Cape Town, the predominantly wheat producing Swartland region includes
the fructuous Riebeek valley, well-known for it's Shiraz wines and olive
farms. This region hosts such prestigious estates as Kloovenburg, Allesverloren
and Twee Jonge Gezellen, as well as the larger co-operative wineries such
as Riebeek Cellars, Swartland Cellars and Darling Cellars, extending further
east, towards the Hexrivier Valley at De Doorns and north towards the Olifants
River valley close to Citrusdal and the fruitful Orange River Valley near
Upington in the Northern Cape.
About
the Author - To plan a hassle free trip to Cape Town, use CityGuideSA
- a comprehensive online travel resource with up-to-date information on
where to Eat, Stay and Play in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and the
Garden Route.
Constantia, Southern
Suburbs, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa Upmarket and beautiful southern
suburb of Cape Town. Mountain views - some areas have magnificent
views across to False Bay. 20 minutes from the Cape Town City Centre,
and 25 minutes from the airport. Groot Constantia and the Constantia
winelands close by. 15 minutes from the nearest beaches at Hout Bay.
Constantia
Lodge, Guesthouse, CONSTANTIA Constantia Lodge lies among
trees below the beautiful Cecilia Forest and looks out across the spectacular
Constantia Valley towards False Bay and Hottentots Hollands mountains beyond.
The rooms are individually decorated, all double en-suite and fully equipped
with luxuries for privacy and comfort. There is also a pool, games room
and african bar & lounge.
Constantia
Vista Luxury Self-Catering Suites, Constantia, Cape Town Overlooking
forests, vineyards, mountains and sea, Constantia Vista is the ideal hideaway
for those who wish to get away from it all. Nestling high on the
hill in a beautiful forest setting, four fully self-contained, free-standing,
self-catering units look out across the magnificent Constantia Valley to
False Bay.
Southern
Light Country House, CONSTANTIA In
perfect composition of energy and tranquility, Southern Light Country House
is set in the elegant, lush surrounds of famous Constantia. Embedded
between magnificent golf courses, beautiful forests, horse riding stables
and renowned wine estates, this location offers the ultimate break away.
The beautifully appointed two acre garden allows you to soak up
its relaxed energy and unwind from the rumble of the city and busy lifestyles.
The stylishly modern Guesthouse offers you a home away from home, giving
a professional impression with subtle personal touches.
Considered
the food and wine heartland of South Africa, Franschhoek was settled
300 years ago by the Huguenots. After the Edict of Nantes was revoked in
France in 1685, and Protestantism was outlawed, hundreds of French Protestants
fled their homeland, with some 275 of them arriving by ship at the Cape
of Good Hope. The Dutch government gave them land in a valley called Oliphantshoek
(Elephant Corner), so named because of the vast herds of elephants that
roamed the area. Soon after they settled there, the valley become known
as Franschhoek (French Corner). The area is known for its vineyards, wineries
and fine cuisine
Akademie
Street Guesthouses, FRANSCHHOEK Akademie Street Guesthouses
offers five-star accommodation in five unique buildings all situated on
the same beautiful property in a quiet area of the village Franschhoek
in the heart of the Cape Winelands. There are four sun-kissed swimming
pools and shady, gardens where one can lie in privacy and listen to the
splashing of the fountains, the song of the cicadas, the cooing of the
Cape Doves … sounds so evocative of the Cape Winelands. This is coupled
with the personal service that only a very small, family owned and managed,
five-star guesthouse/boutique-hotel can give. From this retreat one can
stroll to the village centre and its famous restaurants. Historic
wine farms, great golf courses, hiking, fly-fishing and riding are close
by.
Auberge
Bligny, Bed and Breakfast, FRANSCHHOEK Auberge Bligny is an 1860
homestead in the historic center of Franschhoek. It has 8 en-suite bedrooms
with private entrances. There is a romantic honeymoon suite, family suites
with interleading doors and a room equipped for disabled guests. A country
breakfast is served - in summer on the terrace overlooking the pool and
the mountains for which the village is famous. With six restaurants in
the top 100 of the country, there is a lot of truth in the saying that
Franschhoek is the gourmet capital of the RSA. Some of these and numerous
other excellent restaurants are within seven minutes’ walk from the guest
house.
Auberge
Clermont, Bed and Breakfast, FRANSCHHOEK This magnificent auberge
has been created in an old wine cellar set amid vineyards. Every room has
been individually and stylishly decorated. Underfloor heating and ceiling
fans ensure year round comfort. Superb bathrooms feature double basins,
separate showers and heated towel rails. Delicious breakfasts are served
on the terrace under 140-year old oak trees overlooking the plum orchards
or in the charming courtyard dining room. In addition, Clermont has an
historic self-catering two bedroomed villa, with private swimming pool,
large covered terrace, and stunning views of the Franschhoek mountains.
The villa also has a large loft room with ensuite shower - ideal for children.
Belle
Fleur, Bed and Breakfast, Self-catering, FRANSCHHOEK On a Lemon Farm between
two Wine Farms, you will find 'Belle Fleur'. Situated on a citrus farm
it is the ideal venue for your holiday or simply a relaxing weekend away
from the city. With a swimming pool, braai facilities, lovely garden, panoramic
views. All the rooms are large - fan – Bar fridge - TV - tea/coffee making
facilities and spacious and have private bath and shower (not en suite).
The famous wine routes of Franschhoek, Paarl and Stellenbosch are on our
doorstep. This area renowned for its fauna and flora, offers the quiet
surroundings and scenic nature trails for the nature lover.
Gable
Manor Guest House/Self catering, FRANSCHHOEK Join us for great hospitality
in a stylish and modern guesthouse with luxurious fittings, furnishings
and spacious air-conditioned rooms with beds that sleep so well. Enjoy
the air of relaxation and understated elegance in this classic Cape Dutch
architecturally styled house set in the village of Franschhoek. The two
suites and four bedrooms have air conditioning, top class king size/twin
beds, crisp white percale linen, soft gowns, individual satellite TV, tea
& coffee trays, carpets, safes, UK wall plugs and hairdryers. The décor
follows the theme of understated elegance with each room having its own
distinctive character. The Balinese furniture perfectly matches the gentle
colours in each room.
Gingerbed
Cottage, Self-Catering, FRANSCHHOEK Gingerbeds is a charming
and stylish cottage situated on a large property with a beautiful, tranquil
garden, in the historical “onderdorp” of Franschhoek. It has its own private
entrance, and private courtyard overlooking the garden. Our rooms are tastefully
decorated with whitewashed floors and white percale linen – it is simple,
stylish and comfortable. It is an open plan unit with an ensuite bathroom
with bath, basin and toilet, and small self-catering kitchen. There is
a tv and couch in the bedroom, and guests have access to the garden pool.
La
Fontaine Guest House, B&B, FRANSCHHOEK La Fontaine welcomes you
into Franschhoek in the heart of the winelands. Situated in peaceful surroundings
with spectacular mountain views, this gracious home offers you 8 spacious
double rooms with ensuite bathrooms, three garden rooms and one family
suite which open out into the secluded garden. Generous buffet breakfasts
indoors or under the vine covered pergola. Within safe walking distance
to award-winning restaurants, shops and galleries. Golf, fly-fishing, horse
riding, wine tasting, hiking nearby.
La
Providence, Self-Catering, FRANSCHHOEK Noted
for its wine production and luxurious guest accommodation, La Providence
offers visitors the opportunity to experience Franschhoek in regal style.
The estate is located behind the famous Huguenot monument and is only five
minutes’ walk to Franschhoek’s main road, which is home to several of the
widely-acclaimed restaurants. The valley also boasts over forty wine estates,
resulting in its title “Gourmet Capital of South Africa”. In addition
to some superb golf courses, the Franschhoek Winelands also provides a
wonderful location for other outdoor pursuits such as horse riding and
trout fishing.
Le
Quartier Francais, Guesthouse, FRANSCHHOEK A little French, a little
foreign, a little style they like to call Cape Provencal. Of course, some
call it an Auberge, others an exclusive country inn. In any language, Le
Quartier Français is a splash of style in the heart of the historic
village of Franschhoek, a quaint corner of the Cape wine lands that is
forever a little French. Set behind a delightful Provençal façade
lined with a charming rose and lavender border, Le Quartier Français
welcomes visitors from all over the globe who come here to dine in fine
style and spend the night in a room with a spectacular view. A mélange
of French, Malay and traditional South African dishes, Margot Janses’ menu
tempts with a modern twist of the old Cape and the new.
Maison
Chablis, Guest House, FRANSCHHOEK White
washed walls, beautiful garden and a sparkling swimming pool surround this
elegant Georgian Guest House. Each of the beautifully decorated, spacious
en-suite bedrooms has its own unique décor and character.
Owners Bradley Tyler and Peter Hager have ensured your stay will be a memorable
one by welcoming you to their gracious guest house with a very special
brand or warm and caring Cape hospitality, the attention to detail, sumptuous
breakfast and friendly service, will make your stay with us a truly memorable
one!
La
Petite Ferme, Self-Catering, FRANSCHHOEK La Petite Ferme is set high
on the northern slopes of the magnificent Franschhoek Mountains in a beautiful
garden that extends upwards into the Cape's unique Fynbos. Overlooking
a trout-filled lake and Franschhoek's charming village below, it is the
ideal setting for a relaxing weekend of leisure. For those who wish to
escape city life and experience the sheer joy of silence, beauty and unassuming
simplicity in a charming country retreat, MontMartre is the ideal destination.
Inside the Lodges you will find everything you will require to make your
stay comfortable and unforgettable. Cool in summer because of their higher
altitude and cosy in winter with ceramic fireplaces and logs at the door.
Plumwood
Inn, Guesthouse, FRANSCHHOEK Lying in what was once a
plum orchard, on the edge of the old part of the village, Plumwood Inn
is a mere two-minute amble from the village centre. Peering over plum trees
and majestic mountains this is a place of timeless romance and peace. Soaking
up the African sun at one of the sparkling salt water pools in the peaceful,
cozy garden will make you feel rejuvenated. Plumwood Inn has been stylishly
and creatively designed and decorated to create a warm and most relaxed
ambiance. Roel & Lucienne from the Netherlands pride themselves in
effortless sophistication & personalized service. Plumwood Inn has
seven rooms, in both classic and contemporary style, in two adjacent properties.
Residence
Klein Oliphants Hoek, Bed and Breakfast, FRANSCHHOEK Klein Oliphants Hoek's was
originally mission post, and has been renovated in a sophisticated and
comfortable style whilst keeping as much of the old historical charm as
possible. We aim to keep a warm atmosphere and a very personal relationship
with our guests whilst providing outstanding service and an overall sense
of well-being. Résidence Klein Oliphants Hoek was founded in 1999
by Camil and Ingrid Haas and is now owned and run by Renata Gaggio. We
are located only a five minute walk from the centre of the historic and
famous Franschhoek Village where you will find all of the famous award
winning restaurants and many gallery's and shops to browse in.
Val
D'Or Guest House, FRANSCHHOEK Only
minutes from the centre of the Cape's culinary capital, lies Val d'Or where
the welcome is warm, the tranquillity tangible and the ambience geared
to your comfort. Sink into plump couches in the lounge with its intimate
bar, sip a sundowner on the terrace overlooking vineyards and mountains,
or enjoy a pre-prandial sherry on a winter evening. Luxuriate in
one of the spacious, individually decorated en-suites, or opt for a quaint
garden unit. Wake to birdsong and linger over a bountiful breakfast.
Paarl (meaning "Pearl"
in Dutch and called "Die Pêrel" in Afrikaans) is the third oldest
European settlement in the Republic of South Africa (after Cape Town and
Stellenbosch) and forms part of the Western Cape Province. The 2001 census
reports Paarl to have a population of approximately 108,000 which makes
it the largest town in the Cape Winelands. It is situated about 60 kilometers
northeast of Cape Town in the Western Cape Province and is renowned for
its illustrious past and haunting scenic beauty. Paarl is unusual in South
Africa in that the name of the place is pronounced differently in English
and Afrikaans: in English it is 'Paarl' (rhymes with marl) but in Afrikaans
it is 'Pêrel' ('Pair-uhl'), although still spelt Paarl. An unusual
feature of the name of the town is that Afrikaners customarily attach the
definite article to it: people say (in Afrikaans), "I live in the Pearl"
(in die Paarl), rather than "I live in Pearl". This idiosyncrasy has a
parallel in Australia: "I live in the Alice", meaning I live in Alice Springs.
The district is particularly
well known for its Pearl Mountain or "Paarl Rock". This huge granite rock
is formed by three rounded outcrops that make up Paarl Mountain and has
been compared in majesty to Uluru (formerly known as Ayers Rock) in Australia.
(However, they are not geologically similar. Paarl Rock consists of intrusive
igneous rock, while Uluru is a sedimentary remnant).
Like many towns in the Cape
Winelands, Paarl is home to a prosperous community, with many well maintained
and attractive Cape Dutch houses, beautiful gardens and streets lined with
old oak trees.
Grande
Roche Hotel, PAARL Grande Roche is situated
on the site of the old De Nieuwe Plantatie in the Drakenstein valley of
Paarl, South Africa. Its heritage dates back to 1717 when a grant of land
was given to Hermanus Bosman. Over the years the homestead grew and changed
and, in 1876, it was renovated to reflect the then popular Victorian style.
The farm was bought and modernised by the Du Toit family in 1926 and after
a fire in 1953 it was rebuilt as a Victorian manor house. It was finally
restored to its original Cape Dutch splendour after careful research in
1991 and transformed into a luxury hotel. In 1993, the fastidious restoration
was acknowledged when the Grande Roche Estate was declared a national monument.
Jacaranda
B&B, PAARL Paarl Tourism starts at
Jacaranda B&B Guest house Accommodation close to Cape Town in the Cape
Winelands, Western Cape, South Africa, with its Golf Courses, Horse Riding
and famous Wine Routes. The white brick Mediterranean arches open to inside
outside flow of sunlight and bright spaces. Unique artwork adorns the walls
echoing tones of subtle colour and texture. We take great pride in our
personal hospitality and our guests enjoy and relax in our home as part
of their holiday experience. The well stocked bar with African flavour
opens out onto the large patio, which is surrounded by herbs and flowers.
Individual sunbathing areas surround the large dazzling pool.
Mooi
Bly Landgoed Estate, Between PAARL & WELLINGTON A 60 minutes drive from
Cape Town, somewhere between Paarl and Wellington, on the slopes of the
Du Toit Kloof Mountains, you'll find the beautiful estate called Mooi Bly
Landgoed. You will be able to enjoy four fully equipped cottages with all
comfort available. Each cottage has a kitchen that is situated next to
cozy lounge and a terrace to watch the sunset while having a barbeque (Afrikaans
word is "Braai"). Owned by the family Wouters consists of 4 members,
father Luc and mother Anne-Marie, daughter Liesbeth and son-in-law Erik
who originally come from Antwerp, Belgium. Are you looking for a nice and
peaceful holiday resort in the middle of the vineyards?
Oukraal
Guesthouse B&B, PAARL Mediterranean style villa
( AA Superior, 4 Star). Owned by Ken and Lorraine (English spoken).
5 large rooms, en suite, safe, coffee making facilities, TV, air conditioners.
Most rooms have balconies with lovely views of the valley, and surrounding
mountains. It has a swimming pool in a landscaped terraced garden. Bar-b-q
and guest kitchenette facilities available. Guest house is 5 min walk from
town. Close to shopping areas, restaurants, and numerous wine tasting estates.
Paarl has many attractions such as Butterfly world, Lion Park, horseriding,
museums etc.
Seidelberg
Wine Estate, Between PAARL & WELLINGTON “A
little bit of heaven in the Winelands” was how one visitor to our historic
Wine Estate summarized his experience. Elevated high on Paarl Mountain
the farm has one of the most scenic and magnificent views over the Cape
flats and Table Mountain. Three newly renovated historical country
houses on Seidelberg Wine Estate offer luxury and spacious accommodation
combined with old fashion hospitality. All private situated country
houses are equipped with wireless internet, satellite TV, safe, fire place
and air-condition. The recreation facilities offer swimming pool, sauna
and tennis court.
Villa
Chapelle, Guest House/B&B, PAARL Three air-conditioned luxury
double/twin rooms are en suite, colour TV, M-net, safe, hairdryer, secure
parking with separate entrance to garden, pool and entertainment area …
all with vistas out over the valley. Enjoy the hospitality of your hosts,
Mack and Mariaan, who will assist you with daily itineraries that include
scenic drives over mountain passes, golf, hiking, 4x4 trials, horse riding,
birding, musical evenings, art route and hot air ballooning, trout fishing,
to name but a few. There are several renowned golf courses within easy
access. Wining and dining is a specialty of the region and, whether you
prefer traditional South African, French, Italian or Chinese, you will
be spoiled for choice. We offer dinner on request.
