The Cape Town Winelands name suggests a lazy weekend outing to Stellenbosch or Franschhoek, tasting some excellent wines and then a relaxed luncheon at one of the numerous vineyard restaurants. What people forget is that you can do this right on the doorstep of Cape Town itself within a twenty-minute drive south from the city centre to the Constantia Valley.
Some of the oldest vineyards or wine farms in South Africa exist and are still producing in Constantia. The home of the wine industry in South Africa is Groot Constantia which has been in almost continual production of wine since 1685 when the Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel, started his farm. In Constantia, sun, wind, the oceans and fertile soil have combined to make an excellent terroir for various grape cultivars. The beautiful Cape Dutch manor house and grounds of Groot Constantia are open to the public, so along with a wine tasting, you can wander through the history of the Cape in very much unspoilt surroundings. Take a picnic, or you can eat the local cuisine at the Jonkershuis restaurant or more contemporary dishes at Simon's.
The original Groot Constantia was divided over the centuries and spawned the wine farms of Klein Constantia, Constantia Uitsig and Buitenverwachting. All of which have their unique identities, environments and wines. In my opinion, Buitenverwachting (quite a mouthful which means "beyond expectations" in Afrikaans) has probably the best fine dining restaurant in the valley and one of the best in South Africa. Their champagne, or "methode cape classique' to give the proper nomenclature, is probably the best sparkling wine in the country. There is also a casual bistro where you can sit down or picnic on the lawn.
Klein Constantia is one of the few farms with no restaurant but specialises in the production of fine wines. Its Sauvignon Blanc is particularly renowned, but the king of its production is the Vin de Constance. Bottled in an original 18th-century mould, this sweet wine is akin to the Sauternes of Bordeaux. It is the descendant of the Constantia sweet wines, which made the reputation of this area and was exported to the royal houses and the court of Napoleon in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries.
Moving on to Constantia Uitsig, this is an estate more known for its restaurants than for the quality of its wines. The fine-dining Uitsig restaurant, which competes with Buitenverwachting as one of the best, is complemented by the casual River Cafe, a firm favourite amongst Capetonians for leisurely breakfasts and weekend brunches.
Finishing at the end of the valley (or the beginning, depending on where you start) in the suburb of Tokai is the grand Steenberg Estate. Developed over the years as an upmarket residential estate with a top golf course, the original manor house and vineyard have endured since its founding in 1685. The courtyard of the manor house is flanked by the fine dining Catharina's restaurant and a spa and hotel. Near the winery itself, well known for its sparkling and Catherina, Red wines are the contemporary Bistro 1682, an architecturally stunning and contemporary building with a backdrop to the vineyards and mountains of the Table Mountain National park. It is well known for its Tapas menus and is an excellent way of finishing a punishing day of wine tasting!
Constantia Winelands, What to Do? by Uyaphi.com
Marine Hermanus Hotel
Rates from R2 750.00 per person
Discover the ultimate luxury and relaxation at the Marine Hermanus Hotel, with stunning views of Walker Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and majestic mountain ranges from private balconies.
The Marine is one of South Africa's top hotels for a good reason.
Enjoy fine dining from two in-house restaurants or sample some of the Overberg's best wines with a wine-tasting experience.
Rediscover yourself or reconnect with your loved ones at The Marine Hermanus Hotel – an oasis of bliss that will take your breath away!
Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
Rates from R4 375.00 per person
The Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel is ideal for immersing yourself in luxury and blissful relaxation.
In the bustling heart of Cape Town lies a luxurious boutique hotel featuring 12 en-suite bedrooms adorned with modern and vintage furnishings that promise a truly unforgettable stay in Cape Town.
This is no ordinary hotel but a Bohemian chic heaven of sophistication and luxury. From the spectacular materials used to create maximum impact to the eclectic combination of modernity and vintage style - Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel offers it all!
The Portswood Hotel
Rates from R1 710.00 per person
The Portswood Hotel, located in an idyllic setting within the V&A Waterfront, this stylish hotel offers guests exceptional service and amenities that are sure to make one's stay unforgettable.
From comfortable rooms and suites to views of Table Mountain and the Cape Town harbour, the Portswood Hotel is an ideal destination for those seeking a luxurious stay whether it be business or pleasure.
Enjoy fine dining options at one of the many restaurants' in-house or a short walk away in the V&A Waterfront or relax with a drink at the chic bar or swimming pool.
Ellerman House
Rates from R8 000.00 per person
Indulge in a luxurious five-star experience at Ellerman House situated in the beautiful South African coastal suburb of Bantry Bay.
With its breathtaking ocean views from each and every one of its rooms, suites, dining areas, lounges and swimming pool, this exclusive property is widely regarded as one of the most luxurious hotels in the country.
Ellerman House guarantees guests an extraordinary experience with its five-star amenities, stunning interiors, and top-notch personalised service that can't be found elsewhere.
Kensington Place
Rates from R3 050.00 per person
Perched atop the picturesque slopes of Table Mountain, Kensington Place is a lavish boutique hotel with breathtaking views of Cape Town's bustling downtown skyline.
At this intimate boutique hotel, visitors can enjoy a harmonious blend of city convenience and serene peacefulness.
Boasting 5-star amenities and services, Kensington Place has established itself as an ideal lodging option for those exploring Cape Town.
Guests can enjoy a tranquil refuge while still being near the numerous attractions and restaurants that make this bustling city unique.
Tulbagh Hotel
Rates from R925.00 per person
The Tulbagh Boutique Hotel is centrally located, making it easy to explore the town and its historic Church Street.
The main hotel building dates back to 1859, and it is here that one will find the restaurant, bar, and swimming pool, as well as a luxurious selection of contemporary-styled rooms and suites.
Tintswalo Atlantic
Rates from R11 600.00 per person
Nestled amongst the boulders of the Atlantic Ocean and the slopes of Constantiaberg not far from the small hamlet of Hout Bay, this is an ideal destination for those looking to get away from it all and relax in peaceful tranquillity.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean from one's private balcony or from those stunning bathtubs.
With luxurious accommodations and friendly staff available to attend to your every need, Tintswalo Atlantic in South Africa is nothing short of amazing.
Franschhoek Country House
Rates from R2 245.00 per person
5-star hotel accommodation in the heart of the Franschhoek valley complimented by the famous Monneaux Restaurant, Cape Winelands accommodation, with 14 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites.
One of the best options for anyone when looking for a few nights in the Franschhoek valley.