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
O On Kloof
Rates from R1 575.00 per person
O On Kloof is a stunning boutique hotel located in the heart of Cape Town's Sea Point suburb. Here, guests can experience the best of South African hospitality with easy access to all the local attractions.
Indulge yourself in all the extravagances on offer, including a heated pool, soothing spa treatments, delicious cuisine and opulent guest rooms and suites.
Boasting its advantageous position and exceptional service, O On Kloof in Sea Point ensures your time in Cape Town is an unforgettable experience.
Waterfront Village
Rates from R4 780.00 per night
Step into opulence with a stay at the Waterfront Village—a haven of luxury situated in the vibrant V&A Waterfront precinct.
Boasting an incredible selection of 80 luxurious private residences, each thoughtfully created with lavish amenities to provide you with a serene and pampered stay. Whether it be a romantic getaway or a family vacation, there will be an accommodation option to suit all tastes.
Live in the lap of luxury and enjoy breathtaking views of Table Mountain, Cape Town harbour, and the Waterfront as you make yourself at home in these spacious and luxurious villa options.
Camps Bay Retreat
Rates from R3 360.00 per person
Situated on the majestic slopes of Signal Hill, Camps Bay Retreat is a five-star boutique hotel boasting sumptuous luxury and unparalleled views.
Nestled in an oasis of 4 acres of a small nature reserve and boasting breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Retreat provides a tranquil escape from the hectic pace of city living.
This luxurious retreat boasts unparalleled amenities, a calming ambience, and attentive staff that combine to create an unforgettable experience sure to leave you feeling immensely revived.
Grande Roche Hotel
Rates from R2 650.00 per person
The Grande Roche is a celebrated international hotel, famous for its exquisite location in the centre of the beautiful town of Paarl as well as for its luxurious Cape Winelands Accommodation and award-winning cuisine.
One of the best vineyard hotel options in the Western Cape awaits all visitors.
Villas at Franschhoek Country House
Rates from R7 190.00 per night
These luxury Villas offer what is arguably the best accommodation in the Cape Winelands; the suites are each a total of 100sqm in size which includes a separate lounge, bedroom and bathroom and two private balconies.
A fantastic family-friendly option or for a couple looking for the ultimate in space.
Birkenhead House
Rates from R6 900.00 per person
Birkenhead House is a luxurious five-star boutique hotel in the picturesque town of Hermanus, South Africa.
Be awestruck by the magnificent sight of Walker Bay, the Southern Atlantic Ocean and its neighbouring mountains and fynbos.
From indulgent spa treatments to exquisite dining experiences, guests can choose from their selection of comfortable rooms, suites and villas or opt for one of the exclusive private residences which feature personal butler service and private plunge pools.
One of the most scenic swimming pool areas in South Africa.
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.
Welgelegen House
Rates from R2 475.00 per person
Indulge in the peace and luxury of Welgelegen House, situated conveniently near the hustle and bustle of Cape Town's city bowl.
This striking hotel comprises two Victorian houses and seven lavish suites, linked together by a magnificent cobbled courtyard with an inviting plunge pool encircled by vibrant balconies adorned with iceberg roses and star jasmine.
At the Welgelegen House, you will discover a tranquil abode to just chill and appreciate the breathtaking sites, sounds and attractions of Cape Town.