Here is what makes Cape Town and the Cape Wineland’s one of the best wine destinations:
Accommodation: La Residence Hotel
There is no better way to end off a tasting than with a leisure stroll through Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz grapes vineyards on a 30-acre farm. La Residence, located in the beautiful Franschhoek Valley, sets the benchmark for luxury accommodation in the Cape Winelands.
Surrounded by Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz vineyards, olive groves and plum orchards, with a spectacular mountain backdrop towering above the undulating countryside. They pride themselves in exquisite beauty, luxury and complete tranquillity.
Website: www.theroyalportfolio.com/la-residence
Accolade: Ranked 2nd of Top 5 Resort Hotels in Africa – Travel + Leisure Magazine, 2020
Wine Tourism Restaurants: La Colombe
La Colombe is a popular annual award-winning restaurant and has received worldwide acclaim positioned amongst the top restaurants in the world. La Colombe is one of South Africa’s most iconic and internationally acclaimed fine dining establishments.
Website: www.lacolombe.co.za
Accolade: Restaurant of the Year – World Luxury Restaurant Awards, 2019
Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices: Spier Wine Farm
Ethical farming, the health of the soil and the people who work it, this is what Spier prides itself. Artistic endeavour and complete care in the crafting of their wines. Spier, located near Stellenbosch, is one of South Africa’s oldest wine farms with a dating back to 1692. Spier is rooted in this heritage, but also has a vibrant and modern energy, and is also home to some of the largest collections of contemporary South African art.
Website: www.spier.co.za
Accolade: Best Responsible Business – WTM Inspirational Africa Responsible Tourism Awards, 2020
Architecture & Landscape: Gåte Restaurant
Gåte Restaurant prides themselves with unique design the restaurant creates a unique feel for the dining experience. The unique aspect of Gåte at Quoin Rock is their location, situated in a winery allowing guests to relax and enjoy views of their scenic landscape and a glimpse into our production cellar.
Website: www.quoinrock.co.za/gate-restaurant
Accolade: Outstanding Architecture in Africa at World Luxury Restaurant Awards 2019
Architecture & Landscape: Bosjes
Located near the historical town of Worcester lies something truly magical and unique, surrounded by the inspiring Slanghoek and Waaihoek mountain ranges. Bosjes meaning’ small bushes’ in Dutch is the new name given to the old Bosjes-man’s Valley Farm dating back to 1790. Bosjes opened its doors to the public on the 15 March 2017.
Coetzee Steyn from Steyn Studio designed the striking Bosjes chapel known as South Africa’s architectural darling is the highlight to many visiting and has won many awards.
Website: www.bosjes.co.za
Most recent Accolade: Popular Choice Award as part of the international A+Awards
Innovative Wine Tourism Experiences: Middevlei Wine Estate (South African braai-incorporated experiences)
Looking for authentic and a traditional South African experience, Middelvlei is just the place. Visitors can choose from wine tasting, unique South African food pairing and winemaking experiences. Middevlei is family-friendly and offers kids the chance to braai their marshmallows or even do their juice tasting.
Website: www.middelvlei.co.za
Wine Tourism Services: Constantia Wine Tour
The Constantia Wine Tour is a great way to explore the Constantia Wine Valley – this full-day tour is inclusive of wine-tastings, lunch and refreshments. The tour includes a carefully selected blend of iconic, historic wine estates, boutique wineries and a four-wheel-drive visit to the highest mountain vineyards.
Website: www.theconstantiawinetour.co.za