The picturesque valleys of the Wine Route (also referred to as the Cape Winelands) are renowned for their exquisite wines, grand old estates, pretty towns, & award-winning restaurants.
Experience
Within only a 60-minute drive from vibrant Cape Town, you reach one of the most breathtaking regions in South Africa where Alpine-style views, art galleries, & quaint side-walk cafes are seen from almost every street.
The Cape Winelands generally refers to the three most popular wine-growing regions surrounding Cape Town: Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, & Paarl, each countryside setting as beautiful as the next.
Franschhoek is South Africa’s gourmet capital, so guests here can take their pick from a wide selection of award-winning restaurants. The oak tree-lined streets of Stellenbosch are dotted with art galleries, quaint coffee shops, boutiques, and side-walk cafes while the quiet town of Paarl provides a relaxing, off-the-beaten-track Winelands experience.
The Wine Route is home to a variety of accommodation options that suit every type of traveler – from luxurious manor houses & secluded boutique hotels to farm-style suites & family-friendly villas.
Stay
Small & intimate, Babylonstoren only consists of 22 cottages & suites to ensure a private, exclusive stay. There are 6 one-bedroom suites, 3 one-bedroom cottages, 4 two-bedroom cottages & 9 farmhouse suites.
The suites & cottages are built in traditional Cape Dutch style, with white-washed walls, thatched roofs & clean, contemporary interiors. High ceilings, white decor & hand-picked furniture give the rooms a modern feel while maintaining the historical flair.
The tea garden provides delicious lunches, while the renowned Babel restaurant remains a favourite for its interesting food combinations. Other areas include a gym, library, bar, wellness spa & swimming pool.
Activities
Foodies and wine lovers should – most definitely – add the Winelands to their bucket list! But this breathtaking region offers so much more than just food & wine. Guests can enjoy a long list of activities, including mountain biking, quad biking, hiking, & horse-riding. Other attractions include art galleries, museums, wellness spas, & shopping.
Families will be spoiled for choice in the Winelands. Fun family-friendly activities include animal encounters, grape juice & chocolate tastings, wine farm picnics, strawberry picking, acrobranching (treetop obstacle courses), & even eco-friendly, non-motorized scooter rides through the vineyards – great fun for the whole family. Some wine farms also offer authentic outdoor farm experiences specifically designed for the little ones.
When to travel
The best time to visit the Winelands is between October & April when days are warm, dry, & sunny. Winter is between June & August, but foodies can still enjoy rainy days next to a cosy fire.
