Wine tastings and vineyard tours aren’t the only ways to indulge in the world of wine. Immersing yourself in the enchanting ambience of vine-clad landscapes, savouring exquisite flavours, and succumbing to the allure of wine-country living are all part of the experience.
Here are five stays situated on or near Western Cape wine estates that allow wine enthusiasts and travellers to savour every moment of their journey:
Val du Charron, Wellington
Situated in the picturesque Bovlei region of Wellington, Val du Charron is steeped in history dating back to 1699. With such a rich heritage, it’s no surprise that its wines possess tremendous character, each with an exciting story to tell.
VDC is located just under an hour’s drive from Cape Town and is close to the quaint town of Wellington. It offers luxurious accommodations, top-rated restaurants and a variety of activities to suit every interest, including wine tastings and running trails.
The 4-star Guesthouse, which boasts 18 luxurious suites, each featuring a balcony with views of the vineyards or garden and the Hawekwa Mountains; the 5-star Coach House, which is an exclusive Wineland getaway for discerning guests who value privacy and luxury; and the Manor House, dating back to 1699, have been completely restored and revamped, offering a modern country escape that is one of the most distinctive accommodation options in the Wellington Winelands.
Val du Charron seamlessly blends the region’s rich traditions and natural beauty with modern amenities and technology to create an unforgettable experience for its guests, complete with not only superb wines but unforgettable memories.
- Location: Val Du Charron, Bovlei Road, Wellington, South Africa
- Contact: 021 873 1256 | [email protected]
- Website: www.vdcwines.co.za | www.capecountryroutes.com
Until 31 August 2023, you can enjoy a special deal on this stay.
Also read: Travel bug: Discounted winter escapes in the Cape Winelands
Devonvale Golf & Wine Estate, Stellenbosch
Situated amid the lush vineyards of the Bottelary Hills, Devonvale Golf & Wine Estate awaits, a true treasure of the Cape Winelands. This estate offers a prestigious golf course, lavish accommodations and exquisite dining. Devonvale Golf & Wine Estate serves as a convenient home base for exploring the enchanting wonders of Stellenbosch, the wine route and the Overberg region.
Enjoy an overnight retreat that will leave you feeling refreshed; the Merlot Spa Package is there to help you unwind. Share this extraordinary experience with a companion, whether a dear friend or a cherished family member and revel in a tranquil sojourn amid the Cape Winelands’ vine-lined landscapes.
Regarding your accommodations, you will be treated to a one-bedroom suite at the Devonvale Hotel. This elegant suite features a bedroom, a bathroom complete with a bath and shower, a lounge area and a well-appointed kitchenette. Guests opting for this accommodation have the choice of either an enclosed garden or a balcony to complement their stay.
The suite boasts an array of amenities to ensure the utmost comfort and convenience, including:
- Fine cutlery and crockery for your use
- A cosy lounge area for relaxation
- A secure safe for your valuables
- Complimentary Wi-Fi access to stay connected
- A convenient fridge to keep your refreshments cool
- A kettle and microwave for your convenience
- A cot can be provided upon request
- A serene garden area with a braai for your enjoyment
- A cosy 4-seat dining area for shared meals
- The option of double or single beds for your preference
- Television for your entertainment
- An air conditioner for climate control
- Ample bathroom plugs for your convenience.
- Location: Devonvale Golf Estate, Bottelary Road, Stellenbosch
- Contact: 021 865 2080 | [email protected]
- Website: devonvaleestate.co.za
Until 30 September 2023, you can enjoy a special deal on this stay.
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Lekkerwijn Historic Country Guest House, Groot Drakenstein
Lekkerwijn is a historic Cape Dutch homestead that graces magnificent grounds and gardens and provides an unforgettable experience for solo travellers, couples and families.
This idyllic country retreat is located in the heart of the Cape Winelands, with Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Paarl all within a 15-minute drive. The airport is only 30 minutes away for those seeking seamless travel connections, while Cape Town, the enchanting Garden Route and the captivating coast are all within easy reach with a 45-minute journey time.
Three exceptional wine estates – Allee Bleue, Solms Delta and Boschendal – are within walking distance of Lekkerwijn, promising a tantalising exploration of South Africa’s renowned wine culture.
Make your visit to Lekkerwijn all the more special by indulging in two 30-minute spa treatments of your choice at the Farm Spa, followed by a cosy stay in a self-catering cottage or suite.
Until 23 September 2023, you can enjoy a special deal on this stay.
- Location: Lekkerwijn, R45, Groot Drakenstein
- Contact: 069 106 4419 | [email protected]
- Website: wellnessinthewild.co.za
Cabernet Cottage, Franschhoek
Cabernet Cottage is a charming little gem situated among a forest of olive, willow and oak trees. Located just a stone’s throw away from the centre of Franschhoek, the wine tram and a variety of delightful restaurants, Cabernet Cottage is an idyllic retreat, especially during the winter season when a gentle rivulet flows nearby.
There are numerous activities to choose from in the surrounding area. For a memorable day out, hop on and off the renowned wine tram at your leisure while sampling locally produced wines with your partner. It’s a great way to round out your stay and is conveniently located nearby.
While you’re in the area, stop by the First South African Perfume Museum to learn about the fascinating history of perfumes, or make a visit to the Huguenot Memorial Museum, which is highly recommended for a more informative and immersive activity.
Cabernet Cottage in Franschhoek promises an unforgettable experience for you and your partner with its charming cottage setting, convenient location and an array of engaging activities. Snuggle up next to your loved one and gaze out the window at the breathtaking mountain scenery, while the cosy glow of a lovely, quaint Dover stove keeps you warm on chilly days.
Until 30 September 2023, you can enjoy a special deal on this stay.
- Location: La Terra de Luc, Dirkie Uys Street, Franschhoek
- Contact: 082 920 5445
- Website: airbnb.co.za
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Villa Tarentaal, Tulbach
Escape to a world of total relaxation and surrender to the tranquility of a countryside villa nestled in the historic Tulbagh Valley. Villa Tarentaal serves as an ideal base for exploring the numerous attractions that Tulbagh and the renowned Winelands region have to offer.
Villa Tarentaal’s cottages are surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens and offer breathtaking mountain views. These elegant residences seamlessly blend rustic charm with modern conveniences and each cottage has plenty of space and is outfitted with everything you need for a comfortable self-catering stay.
The Fish Eagle and Egyptian Goose cottages stand out among the villa’s lodging options. Step inside to find a comfortable lounge area where you can unwind after a day of exploring and step outside where a secluded garden awaits, complete with a delightful patio and a braai area. An indoor fireplace provides a cosy glow on cooler evenings, while air conditioning keeps you cool on hotter days and a fully equipped kitchenette also allows you to prepare meals at your leisure.
No trip to the Winelands would be complete without a wine tasting, and Tulbagh has a number of prestigious wineries to choose from. You can savour and purchase the finest award-winning wines in Saronsberg, Krone, Lemberg and Montpellier, providing your palate with an unforgettable experience. A wine-tasting journey by bike is a more active adventure. Rent a bicycle from Vindoux and take your time pedalling through scenic vineyards, immersing yourself in breathtaking scenery.
Tulbagh Horse Trails provides an unforgettable experience for exploring the valley’s natural beauty in a unique way. Set out on a guided horseback ride through rolling estates and orchards, and embrace the tranquility of your surroundings.
- Location: Van Der Stel Street, Tulbagh
- Contact: 083 629 1484 or email [email protected]
- Website: villatarentaal.co.za
Until 30 October 2023, you can enjoy a special deal on this stay.
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Picture: Matthijs van Schuppen / Unsplash