Vineyards: Stellenbosch & Franschhoek

Just 45–60 minutes east of Cape Town begins one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world. Amid dramatic mountains, Cape Dutch architecture, and endless rows of vines, over 500 wineries produce world-class wines — at prices unimaginable in Europe.

Stellenbosch

South Africa's second oldest town (founded in 1679) and the center of the wine region. The oak-lined streets with their Cape Dutch gabled houses (whitewashed, thatched roofs, curved gables) are breathtaking. Stellenbosch is also a university town — the cafés and restaurants are accordingly lively.

Top wineries around Stellenbosch:

• Spier — Family-friendly, picnic on the lawn, Segway tours through the vineyards. Shiraz and Chenin Blanc.
• Delaire Graff — The most glamorous winery: luxury lodge, sculpture garden, star restaurant, breathtaking location. Tasting fee 150 ZAR.
• Rust en Vrede — One of South Africa's best red wine cellars. The Cabernet Sauvignon is legendary. Restaurant with top cuisine.
• Waterford Estate — The "Chocolate & Wine Pairing" is an experience: 5 wines with 5 handmade chocolates.

Franschhoek

The "French Corner" was founded in 1688 by Huguenot refugees from France and is now South Africa's culinary capital. More star restaurants line up on one main street than anywhere else in the country.

Top wineries & experiences:

• La Motte — Elegant winery with a museum on Huguenot history. Outstanding Shiraz and Millennium (Bordeaux blend).
• Babylonstoren — The most spectacular wine estate: 3.5 hectares of vegetable gardens in Cape Dutch style, farm-to-table restaurant "Babel", spa, hotel. A paradise.
• Franschhoek Wine Tram — The famous Wine Tram connects 7 wineries via historic tram and hop-on-hop-off bus. From 280 ZAR (14€). Book online!
• Haute Cabrière — Wine cellar built into a rock face with Pierre Jourdan Cap Classique (South Africa's champagne method). The cellar master opens the bottles with a saber!

Paarl

The third wine town, known for the Paarl Rock (the second largest granite rock in the world after Uluru) and the seat of KWV, the historic wine giant. Less touristy than Stellenbosch/Franschhoek, but more authentic. Try the wines from Fairview (with goats on the tower!) and Boschendal (historic manor house, perfect picnic).