Sip, Savor & Surprise: Uncover the Winelands’ Most Playful Food-and-Wine Pairings

The new year has heralded the arrival of several new wine experiences. Listed below are fresh attractions in Paarl, Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, Elgin and the Swartland.

American philosopher Henry David Thoreau once said, “Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influence of the earth.”

If you’re looking for extraordinary ways of getting around the South African winelands, read on.

From bicycles and boats to scooters and sidecars you’re set to tick off some bucket-list-worthy experiences amongst the vines.

Picture this: a bottle of incredible local wine, a sunset over the vineyards and the love of your life by your side.

Quality time away with your partner probably doesn’t happen often, so when it does, make sure it’s a memorable experience. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the most romantic and unique getaways across 20 different wine routes in South Africa.

It is spring at last and the fynbos, the natural vegetation of the Cape, is at its most spectacular with hundreds of species in flower. I have been trying to convince myself that it is time to get moving and shake off those nasty winter wobbly bits.

The scenic beauty of South Africa’s winelands combined with wide open spaces and mountainous terrain, make our 23 wine regions a playground for trail runners.

The Winelands of South Africa are well known for their mountain biking culture, with a huge base of riders and an impressive network of trails cutting through the valleys. But there is also a growing movement of trail runners starting to take advantage of the impressive mountain passes, rolling jeep tracks and challenging technical single-tracks that are found throughout the wine regions.

Wine and art lovers living in the spectacular Winelands are in the fortunate position of being surrounded by attractions that’ll please all their senses. From light art displays to art walkabouts with wine tastings, take a look at this list of upcoming wine and art events.

Like wine, tasting rooms have their fans. Ask anyone for their favourite and you’ve launched a debate.

For some, it’s about architecture; others, the view. There are tasting rooms that are great because they’re like the local pub; a place about people. And still more that have a following because of the art or the frogs (keep reading) or the vibe.

“It’s just a perfect road-trip,” declares Doornkraal Farm Stall owner Celia le Roux suddenly.

We’re sitting on the stoep of her well-known roadside wine shop, deep in rural Klein Karoo territory, and she’s punting the Garden Route. “Drive the R44 from Montagu to Oudtshoorn, then head back via George and the Garden Route,” she adds.

Drinks with friends used to be such a complicated affair. Bars were for some, and even those people couldn’t use just any bar. It was the ugly side of Cheers, Where Everybody Knows Your Name™. You had to be sure these were your people, once your eyes had adjusted to the smoke and dim interior.

Step into the cosy season with our selection of winelands experiences that are perfect for autumn. Nostalgic farm-style dining, wine lounges with breathtaking views, family-friendly picnics, exclusive wine and food experiences… Take your pick from our list of magical autumn experiences in the Cape Winelands.

South Africa is famous for its long coastal stretches and world class vineyards. Pristine white-sand beaches, epic surf spots and row-upon-row of vineyards are all calling cards for the country, and visitors come in the thousands, drawn by the vast diversity of varietals and the endless stretches of coastline. The only question is which do you do first? Sample an award-winning vintage or soak up the sun on a Blue Flag beach? The good news is that you can do both with a number of the country’s winelands within a stone’s throw of the beach.

The Cape Winelands serves as a natural choice for anybody who appreciates the finer things in life.

Be it for an escape from reality as you indulgently fly in for lunch, sip bubbly after a spa treatment, or enjoy an extended stay in a tucked away private villa – the discerning traveller is certain to find what they’re looking for among the vine covered mountains and valleys.

We can all agree that 2022’s been quite a year. As the days grow longer and the sun gets hotter, it’s time to get together as a team and clink a few glasses. What better way to end off 2022 than with an awesome year-end party?

The South African winelands are not only home to some of the world’s finest vintages and award-winning estates, but also incredible adventure experiences. From mountain biking to quad biking, zip-lining to trail running and sky diving to abseiling, for those seeking adrenaline-fueled adventures, those brave souls willing to tackle the extreme, you will get your fix in the winelands.

There are many things that South Africa can boast about, but arguably, there are two things that sit on top of that impressively large list of bragging rights: wine and safari. Few other destination can match up in terms of diversity and quality, so why not combine them? Next time you visit the SA winelands, be sure to pair the world class vintages with the might and beauty of the Big 6 and more.

You’re ready to take your relationship to the next level. It’s time to pop the question. The real question however, is: where to do it?

Fear not, the winelands have you covered – from Plettenberg Bay to Doringbaai and beyond. Here’s a short list of suggestions to get your started. Remember that most need to be booked in advance.