WINE ROUTES

NAMAQUA WEST COAST WINE ROUTE

West Coast wonders and wild open space

Welcome to the enchanting Namaqua West Coast Wine Route, a treasure trove of intimate and unique experiences, unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before. Journey off the beaten track to family-run farms, and in contrast, visit some of South Africa’s most renowned mega-wineries- also proud to call this region home. Here, local wineries practice environmentally sustainable farming and winemaking – not just as an aspiration but a necessity.

Embraced by the rugged beauty of the rocky coastline and hidden bays, adorned by arid landscapes that hold secrets of centuries past, the Namaqua West Coast beckons with its fine wines and an abundance of outdoor adventures. A particular spectacle awaits those fortunate enough to witness the carpets of colorful flowers that bloom after the rain, drawing the crowds in Spring and painting the landscape with nature’s vibrant palette.

A vibrant tapestry of cultural delights awaits—where the rhythm of the Rieldans and the Blikkitaar’s melody intertwine. Along the coast, skuit-bakkies rest on the sandy shores, and bokkoms slowly cure under the eaves, a testament to the region’s rich heritage.

Namaqualand’s botanical wonders cast a spell, with the springtime vygieveld bursting into dramatic bloom and the Knersvlakte’s dwarf succulents creating a mesmerizing tableau. The West Coast Wine Route meanders along the Olifants River valley, encompassing the coastal Lambert’s Bay ward and the high-altitude ward of Piekenierskloof. The latter, with its conducive climate for organic cultivation, yields grapes of exceptional quality. The region stretches from the citrus-rich Citrusdal in the south to Koekenaap in the north, offering a diverse range of flavours and experiences.

Amidst the bounty of this thriving region, wine has an age-old tradition, dating back to the 18th century when Francois le Vaillant, a French explorer, first purchased wine from the widow Van Zeijl during his explorations.  Today, the Namaqua Wine Route honours this rich heritage while embracing innovation and the diversity of its offerings. Renowned for its authenticity and genuine hospitality, one thing has always remained the same- this is a place where all visitors are truly welcomed, embraced with warmth, exceptional wines, good food and great sense of humour.  Step into this enchanting realm, where traditions blend with natural marvels, and an unforgettable experience awaits in every sip and around each corner.

FOOD EXPERIENCES IN THE NAMAQUA WEST COAST WINE ROUTE

Along the Namaqua Wine Route, our cellars are dedicated to offering a culinary experience that shines the spotlight on the finest local flavours.  Menus feature a wide array of authentic delicacies, such as skuinskoek and roosterkoek, prepared with a touch of tradition and passion. Guests can savour the ocean’s bounty with abalone, snoek, and bokkoms, all served fresh and highlighting the coastal riches of the region. Adding to the culinary adventure, the succulent lamb from Boesmanland farms needs to find a way to your plate at some point. A unique celebration of local abundance awaits, from Rooibos tea pairings to Abalone delicacies served
complete with sea views at Fryers Cove – the magic of the west Coast is warm hospitality, a hearty plate of good food and of course, the perfect complement of wine.

WINE OF ORIGIN:
Olifants River, West Coast,
Bamboes Bay and Lamberts Bay

WINES WE ARE KNOWN FOR:
Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet
Sauvignon and Muscadelle

DISCOVER THE NAMAQUA WEST COAST WINE ROUTE
Five ‘must try’ local experiences:

  1. Be sure to visit the renovated fish factory of Fryer’s Cove, set on the Doring Bay pier and boasting the world’s only vineyard
    this close to the Atlantic Ocean! Soak in the views and tuck into some seriously delicious, fresh seafood and sample the
    delicacy of Abalone.
  2. Those looking for a breath of fresh air can enjoy numerous hiking and biking trails in the area, such as the Viswater MTB Trail
    & Gifberg Hiking Trails.
  3. Enjoy a rooibos & wine pairing for a unique new appreciation of the thriving tea plantations this side of the world. Klawer
    Cellars gets creative with delicious additions like rooibos biscotti paired with Pinotage and even boasts an African Ruby
    Rooibos infused wine!
  4. Be sure to sample a skuinskoek – a local doughnut specialty (and thank us later).
  5. Live music on offer at Die Keldery, the official tasting room for Namaqua Wines, where you’re also able to enjoy guided pairings with chocolate, biltong and even a kiddie-friendly version!

DISCOVER THE NAMAQUA WEST COAST WINE ROUTE
Five ‘must try’ local experiences:

  1. Be sure to visit the renovated fish factory of Fryer’s Cove, set on the Doring Bay pier and boasting the world’s only vineyard
    this close to the Atlantic Ocean! Soak in the views and tuck into some seriously delicious, fresh seafood and sample the
    delicacy of Abalone.
  2. Those looking for a breath of fresh air can enjoy numerous hiking and biking trails in the area, such as the Viswater MTB Trail
    & Gifberg Hiking Trails.
  3. Enjoy a rooibos & wine pairing for a unique new appreciation of the thriving tea plantations this side of the world. Klawer
    Cellars gets creative with delicious additions like rooibos biscotti paired with Pinotage and even boasts an African Ruby
    Rooibos infused wine!
  4. Be sure to sample a skuinskoek – a local doughnut specialty (and thank us later).
  5. Live music on offer at Die Keldery, the official tasting room for Namaqua Wines, where you’re also able to enjoy guided pairings with chocolate, biltong and even a kiddie-friendly version!

THE NAMAQUA WEST COAST WINE ROUTE

THE NAMAQUA WEST COAST WINE ROUTE

Book a tasting at your favourite winery

Book your spot now, don’t be disappointed!