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
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.
Hyde Hotel
Rates from R2 214.00 per person
The Hyde Hotel, Cape Town is the perfect establishment for a luxurious and relaxing stay in the trendy district of Sea Point, Cape Town.
The Hyde All-Suite Hotel offers guests beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean, Table Mountain and Signal Hill. The hotel's suites are designed with luxury and comfort in mind, providing discerning travellers with an unforgettable experience during their visit to South Africa's stunning Western Cape region.
With attentive staff on hand to assist with any needs or requests, The Hyde Hotel in Sea Point promises an exquisite getaway that will leave one feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Alphen Boutique Hotel
Rates from R2 225.00 per person
Nestled in the picturesque Constantia, Alphen Boutique Hotel Spa is a 5-star haven of luxury spanning over 11.5 acres of immaculately manicured gardens and lush lawns.
This historic yet modern hotel offers guests an unforgettable stay, blending its past with cutting-edge facilities and amenities.
Alphen Boutique Hotel offers the most luxurious and convenient travel experience, with attentive service and exquisite dining options to make your stay in Constantia a truly memorable one.
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.
Camps Bay Village
Rates from R1 700.00 per night
At Camps Bay Village, you will find a collection of luxurious crash pads, seaside studios, garden studios and deluxe holiday villas.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled family holiday, this is the lodging for you!
With easy access to the famed Camps Bay beach, restaurants, cafes, bars and nightlife of Cape Town, all of this makes the village very popular with travellers.
These Villas in Cape Town offer exceptional value and location.
POD Boutique Hotel
Rates from R3 600.00 per person
Escape to POD Boutique Hotel for the most lavish and remarkable getaway in the Suburb of Camps Bay.
The POD Camps Bay, located in close proximity to the beautiful beachfront and tranquil Atlantic Ocean, offers 15 luxurious suites that boast opulent extravagance coupled with sophisticated simplicity.
Enjoy ultimate relaxation and opulence as you savour the panoramic views of pristine white beaches and shimmering crystal seas that will make your getaway an unforgettable experience.
Just a few minutes away you can find south beach Camps Bay beach, several restaurants, and various bars, all within an easy stroll of less than three minutes.
Twelve Apostles Hotel
Rates from R4 465.00 per person
Welcome to the luxurious Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, located not to far from the famous Camps Bay suburb of Cape Town.
Enjoy breathtaking views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Table Mountain National park from any one of the 70 rooms and suites available.
Indulge in fine dining and wine-tasting options while taking in one of the most beautiful sunsets for any one of the decks!
With so much to offer, it's no wonder the Twelve Apostles is a favourite destination for travellers looking for an unforgettable and unique Camps Bay experience.
Cape Grace Hotel
Rates from R5 700.00 per person
Indulge in the majestic beauty of Cape Town and its waterfront with a stay at The Cape Grace Hotel.
Nestled on the serene waterfront of bustling V&A Waterfront, this luxurious hotel offers guests an experience that is incomparable in terms of luxury, comfort and service.
Relishing in opulence and unparalleled amenities, it's no surprise that The Cape Grace is the epitome of luxury and one of South Africa's most coveted hotels.
From romantic escapes to family-friendly adventures, The Cape Grace offers something for everyone seeking the perfect getaway.