Cape Winelands Tours

The Cape Winelands start less than an hour from Cape Town. Old Cape Dutch homesteads, mountain views and hundreds of wine farms make it one of the easiest day trips from the city.

A tour means nobody has to drive after tasting. Choose a guided day with several estates, the Franschhoek Wine Tram, an e-bike tour or a private day planned around the wines you like.

The main wine areas

Constantia

Inside Cape Town, about 20 minutes from the centre. Groot Constantia, founded in 1685, is the oldest wine farm in South Africa.

Durbanville

Cool hills on the northern edge of the city, known for Sauvignon Blanc.

Stellenbosch

About 45 minutes from Cape Town. A university town founded in 1679, with oak-lined streets and the largest number of estates. See the Stellenbosch Wine Route.

Franschhoek

About an hour and a quarter from Cape Town, in a valley settled by French Huguenots in 1688. Known for its restaurants and the Wine Tram. See Franschhoek.

Paarl and further afield

Paarl, Wellington and the Robertson valley on Route 62 are quieter and good for longer trips.

Ways to taste

• Guided tasting tour. Visit several estates in a day with lunch, with tasting fees often included.
• Franschhoek Wine Tram. A hop-on hop-off line of tram and open bus between estates in the Franschhoek valley.
• E-bike tours. Ride between estates in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek on electric bikes, with a guide.
• Helicopter and picnic. A short scenic flight over the vineyards with tasting and a picnic lunch.
• Private day. Your own guide and vehicle, so you choose the estates, the pace and where to eat.

What to taste

Chenin Blanc is the most planted white grape in South Africa. Pinotage, a cross of Pinot Noir and Cinsaut created here in 1925, is the local red. Stellenbosch is also known for Cabernet Sauvignon and red blends, and Méthode Cap Classique is the local name for sparkling wine made the traditional way. Many estates offer cheese, chocolate or food pairings.

Best time to go

The harvest runs from about February to April. Summer is busy and can be hot inland. In winter the valleys are green and quiet, and estates light their fireplaces.

Good to know

• Check whether tasting fees are included or paid at each estate.
• The legal drinking age in South Africa is 18.
• Many estates can ship wine abroad, which is easier than carrying bottles in your luggage.
• Pace yourself: use the spit buckets and drink water between estates.