Attention wine lovers! Get ready to embark on a breath-taking journey through the winelands of the South African Cape. Learn all about the process of making fine wines, from the vineyard to the bottle, and visit the historical towns of Stellenbosch, Franschoek & Paarl.
Stellenbosch/Zewenwacht
The Stellenbosch winelands, just 20 minutes away from the city of Cape Town, offer a superb scenery, completely different from the landscape of the Cape Peninsula. Numerous grapes are grown in the region, such as Chenin Blanc, Shiraz, Pinotage, and the Méthode Cap Classique (local champagne). Stellenbosch is a small but vibrant town with a very famous university and numerous activities like wine cellar tours and tastings. You will have the opportunity to purchase wines to bring back home to enjoy continue enjoying the region’s wonderful vintages even after your visit.
(1h 45min)
Franschhoek/Marianne Wine Estate
Franschhoek (“the French Corner”) is an old Huguenot village. With its numerous streets and estates with French names, the town will disorient you, making you wonder whether you have been transported to France in another era. You will be completely enchanted by the town’s charm and its very peaceful environment. You will get the chance to taste the region’s delicacies, cheeses, and its best wines. Experience a unique and leisurely way to see the Franschhoek Valley as you journey through rolling vineyards in an open-side tram.
(2h)
Drakenstein Prison
Drakenstein is a low-security prison between Paarl and Franschhoek. The prison is famous as the place where Nelson Mandela spent the last part of his imprisonment for campaigning against apartheid.
(10min)
Paarl/Laborie
The town of Paarl offers a fascinating window into Afrikaner culture and tradition. As a former haven of the Huguenots pioneers who came from Europe at the beginning of the 17th century after the Edict of Nantes, the town boasts a monument dedicated to the Huguenots. You will also be able to visit the town’s vineyards where you will taste the region’s finest wines.
(1h)