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 R3 645.00 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, and for good reason.
Enjoy fine dining from two in-house restaurants or sample some of 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!
Erinvale Estate Hotel And Spa
Rates from ZAR 2 950.00 per person sharing
Enter the elegant world of Erinvale Hotel and Spa, located in Somerset West, with Cape Town's stunning vistas as your backdrop. This luxury boutique hotel blends historical charm with modern sophistication, offering guests a sanctuary of relaxation and indulgence.
It's undoubtedly a top choice for a peaceful escape, romantic getaway, or memorable family holiday. Erinvale offers unmatched experiences with luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and exceptional amenities.
Rijks Country House
Rates from R1 250.00 per person
Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Rijks Country House offers tranquillity and sophistication. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and dramatic mountains, this boutique retreat invites guests to escape daily life and enjoy the serene beauty of Tulbagh.
Guests can enjoy gourmet dining with fresh, local ingredients and award-winning wines from Rijks Private Cellar. Whether exploring the landscape, relaxing by the pool, or savouring the Estate's offerings, Rijks Country House is a perfect destination for unwinding in understated splendour.
POD Boutique Hotel
Rates from R3 255.00 per person
Escape to POD Boutique Hotel, the perfect spot for a luxurious getaway in Camps Bay. Just steps from the Atlantic Ocean and Camps Bay's stunning beach, POD offers 15 stylish suites that blend elegance with modern simplicity. Here, luxury is a way of life.
POD's prime location is just minutes from Camps Bay Beach, with lively restaurants and bars only a three-minute walk away. Whether you want a peaceful retreat or the buzz of Camps Bay's social scene, POD offers the best of both worlds.
The Dock House
Rates from R5 910.00 per person
The Dock House is one of Cape Town's most exclusive boutique hotels, overlooking the iconic V&A Waterfront. With just six beautifully designed rooms and manicured lawns, it offers a peaceful escape. Guests can enjoy a private bar and a serene pool, ensuring every luxury is within reach.
What sets The Dock House apart is its blend of exclusivity and comfort, offering a peaceful retreat just steps from the vibrant Waterfront. With impeccable service and attention to detail, this boutique hotel delivers unmatched relaxation and luxury. For a serene yet indulgent stay in Cape Town, The Dock House is a must.
Camps Bay Retreat
Rates from R4 855.00 per person
Perched on Signal Hill, Camps Bay Retreat is a five-star boutique hotel combining luxury with stunning natural beauty. Set on 4 acres of a tranquil nature reserve, it boasts some of Cape Town's best Atlantic Ocean views while staying close to all essentials.
Attention to detail is unmatched, with curated amenities and warm, professional service designed to indulge and rejuvenate. Whether you're relaxing in tranquil spaces or admiring the dramatic ocean views, this is a place where relaxation becomes an art.
Winchester Mansions
Rates from R2 930.00 per person
Experience luxury at Winchester Mansions Hotel, a gem in Seapoint's Platinum Mile. This elegant four-star retreat boasts stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Robben Island. Perfect for business or leisure, the Winchester offers modern amenities, exceptional dining, and a prime location.
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or exploring Cape Town, the Winchester Mansions offers a stay that's both indulgent and welcoming. With its charm and commitment to quality, this hotel promises a memorable home away from home.
River Manor
Rates from R1 700.00 per person
River Manor rests peacefully beneath the shade of Stellenbosch's ancient oaks, just a short two-minute stroll from the vibrant town centre. Each room has been thoughtfully and stylishly furnished with antiques, perfectly capturing the essence of "Colonial charm with a touch of Africa."
This guesthouse strikes the perfect balance between classic elegance and modern luxury, offering an upscale retreat within walking distance of Stellenbosch's renowned attractions. River Manor promises an exceptional stay that blends sophistication with a warm, inviting atmosphere.