At the gateway to Stellenbosch lies Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate, a special place bathed in serenity, heritage and natural beauty. Only 30 minutes’ drive from Cape Town, it offers an immediate escape into country peace and calm. You can hear the birds as they gather at the vlei, the susurration of the leaves in the indigenous gardens, the Indian Runner ducks as they waddle off to work and the occasional lowing of cows. A herd of Dexter cattle, like the ducks, takes care of weeds and fertilises the soils.
The mixed farming estate, just 5kms from False Bay, operates according to regenerative agricultural principles to keep soils healthy, promote biodiversity and capture carbon.
Visitors are so captivated by the extensive gardens, the walking trails, the outdoor artworks by the acclaimed Dylan Lewis and Manuela Holzer, the finely restored 18th century Cape Dutch buildings and two restaurants, it’s sometimes hard to remember this is as much an agricultural enterprise as it is an enclave of luxury.
The estate offers high-end boutique accommodation with spectacular views. Each suite has been individually appointed with the accent on comfort, ease and privacy. For those looking for some self-spoiling, there’s a superb spa.
There are fine wines, many of them award-winning as young winemaker Vusi Dalicuba makes his mark. Elegant and restrained, they shine when paired with dishes at Geuwels, a casual eatery for breakfast and lunch, and the more formal Clara’s Barn. At both, Bertus Basson and Drikus Basson have given local culinary traditions an exciting reinterpretation.
Guests can also sample wines at the 1773 Homestead Wine Lounge.
Visit Vergenoegd Löw for a distillation of understated but world-class sophistication.
