Cape Winelands

Raise a glass to the Cape Winelands – the bottles produced here are some of the most well-respected labels in the global winemaking industry. The region also holds major pull for local and international travellers seeking a day trip or weekend getaway from Cape Town. Darling Dutch colonial manor houses, sprawling wine estates, Michelin-star restaurants, and Afrikaans traditions are just some of the reasons to visit. Stellenbosch, Paarl, Somerset West and Franschhoek each have their own distinct charm. There are enough wine routes to keep you here for weeks, along with centuries-old architecture, hiking trails, and mouth-watering farm markets at Root 44, Blaauwklippen Wine Estate and Lourensford Estate. The Taal Monument, on Paarl Mountain, celebrates Afrikaans’ status as one of South Africa’s official languages (it was outlawed in the aftermath of the Anglo-Boer War in 1902). The monument also acknowledges how languages such as Dutch, Malay, Malay-Portuguese, Arabic, French, German, English, and the indigenous Khoi and African languages all influenced the development and evolution of Afrikaans. Another historic town of interest is Franschhoek – established by French Huguenots fleeing religious persecution in 17th-century Europe. Today, this destination is considered the food and wine capital of South Africa, with luxury hotels and wine estates boasting world-class art, architecturally-expressive tasting rooms, and internationally-renowned chefs. Franschhoek Pass is one of the region’s most scenic drives and is not to be missed. Best for: Couples/Honeymooners; Foodies; Luxury Travellers; Nature Lovers; History Buffs