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
Ellerman House
Rates from R9 000.00 per person
Experience luxury at Ellerman House in Bantry Bay, South Africa. With stunning ocean views from its rooms, suites, dining areas, lounges, and pool, this property is among the finest in the country. Every detail, from the stylish interiors to the top-notch amenities, has been carefully crafted.
Ellerman House offers an unmatched stay with exclusivity and elegance. Its personalised service ensures guests feel cared for every moment. With stunning ocean views and beautiful spaces, Ellerman House delivers an unforgettable luxury experience.
Ellerman Villa Two
Rates from R150 000.00 per night
Nestled in the prestigious Bantry Bay, Cape Town, Ellerman Villa Two is a luxurious private retreat that redefines indulgence. Surrounded by mountain ranges and offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, it's one of the most exclusive destinations for those seeking peace and refinement.
Perfect for families or small groups, the villa features three beautifully designed bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom and private terrace, offering exceptional comfort and space. Every detail, from the elegant interiors to the stunning views, is crafted for an unparalleled luxury experience.
Twelve Apostles Hotel
Rates from R4 465.00 per person
Welcome to the Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, where elegance meets natural beauty. Just minutes from Cape Town's Camps Bay, this hotel offers a truly unique stay. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain National Park from any of the 70 beautifully designed rooms and suites.
Savour exquisite dining and world-class wines while watching stunning sunsets from the hotel's scenic decks. Every detail is crafted to create an unforgettable experience, blending luxury with a deep connection to the surroundings.
The Bay Hotel
Rates from R4 190.00 per person
The Bay Hotel is a stunning retreat with 78 beautifully designed rooms located right across from the iconic Camps Bay Beach. Each room is crafted for ultimate comfort, offering a luxurious yet welcoming stay.
Camps Bay Beach, with its white sands, top restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, is one of the most sought-after destinations for an unforgettable getaway. Whether you're enjoying the beach, savouring great food, or soaking up the lively atmosphere, The Bay Hotel is the ideal base for an exceptional vacation.
Radisson Collection Hotel Waterfront
Rates from R4 565.00 per person
Radisson Collection Hotel Waterfront is a must-visit in Granger Bay, near the iconic V&A Waterfront. With stunning views of Robben Island and unforgettable sunsets, this luxurious hotel is perfect for travelers seeking comfort and beauty. Its 177 stylish rooms and suites are designed with sophistication and attention to detail.
For those seeking relaxation, the outdoor pool offers a serene spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the view. The luxurious on-site spa is perfect for unwinding and escaping daily stress. Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property makes it easy to stay connected, along with other thoughtful amenities.
Welgelegen House
Rates from R1 750.00 per person
Located near the heart of Cape Town, Welgelegen Boutique Hotel offers a peaceful escape with a perfect mix of luxury and convenience. Set in two restored Victorian houses, it features seven elegant suites designed for comfort and style.
At Welgelegen House's centre is a picturesque cobbled courtyard with an inviting plunge pool. Charming balconies decorated with fragrant roses and jasmine complete the dreamy, tranquil, and luxurious setting.
Tintswalo Atlantic
Rates from R5 510.00 per person
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean's rugged boulders and the slopes of Constantiaberg, near the charming Hout Bay, Tintswalo Atlantic offers a serene escape. This hidden gem invites guests to relax in tranquillity, with stunning ocean views from private balconies or luxurious freestanding bathtubs.
The accommodations are beautifully designed, combining elegance and comfort, while the friendly staff ensures every need is met with care. Whether enjoying the stunning views or the tranquil atmosphere, Tintswalo Atlantic offers unmatched relaxation.
Franschhoek Country House
Rates from R2 800.00 per person
Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Franschhoek Valley, this 5-star hotel offers an exceptional stay complemented by the renowned Monneaux Restaurant. Perfectly situated in the Cape Winelands, it features 14 exquisitely designed rooms and suites, each crafted with luxurious attention to detail.
Franschhoek Country House is, without a doubt, one of the finest options for anyone seeking a sophisticated getaway in Franschhoek. Whether you're indulging in world-class dining or simply soaking in the beauty of the valley, this accommodation promises a truly memorable experience.