Constantia
The Constantia Valley with its beautiful sweeping views over the entire False Bay area, is where the first wine farm was established in the Cape. Given to Governor Simon Van der Steel in 1685, he built a large farmhouse in the famous Cape Dutch Style – Groot Constantia is now a Heritage Site and the original buildings are well maintained and can be visited.
Restaurants and a large wine tasting area and cellar make this one of Cape Town’s most popular destinations, both for visitors and locals. Many other wine areas have established themselves in this fruitful valley. And Napoleon obtained his favourite wine from here, still produced today in a special vintage bottle.
Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch is the second oldest town in South Africa and was named after the first Governor of the Cape „Simon Van der Stel“. The historical town centre with its original Cape Dutch flair is a vibrant student town filled with art galleries, museums and charming restaurants.
Known today as the top wine region in the country, Stellenbosch is surrounded by hundreds of estates scattered around the outskirts of the town, many of which produce world-class wines. The charming town does not only have the oldest wine route in the country, and arguably the most famous, but it has also one of the most modern experimental wineries in the world.
Paarl
This unique valley, a little further inland stands out as a centre for culture, nature & culinary delights. The “Taal” Monument, dedicated to the rich and diverse roots of the Afrikaans language standing on a large granite rock is the emblem of the town. Due to a very unique climate and different rock formations in the valley, Paarl boasts green lush areas as well as semi-desert like regions, making it a very interesting ground for various cultivars.
Organic farmers, breweries, distilleries and plenty of wine farms offer a mix of culinary delights, some of which can be sampled in the famous Spice Route.
Franschhoek
Franschhoek is known worldwide as the Gourmet Capital of South Africa! The “French Corner” as the name already indicates, was settling ground for French Huguenots, looking for a new home about 200 years ago. The love of good food and wine is central and alive to this day in this special valley.
Lovely farm and guesthouses in pristine setting – the perfect getaway venue to pamper yourself and take part in the local festivities to celebrate “le joi de vivre”!