The expansive, rolling hills of the wine country are a key draw for those visiting South Africa, which produces around 900 million litres of wine each year. Many factor days at the wine farms into their trip, enjoying sunny wine tastings and Chardonnay-fuelled dinners.
However, as an increasing number of individuals question and re-valuate their relationship with alcohol, it’s important to note that the wine country offers so much more than … well, wine.
This intoxicating combination of South-African hospitality, stunning scenery, beautiful architecture, mouth-watering cuisine, and the plethora of activities to choose from, provides a fulfilling experience, making it a memorable destination for all, regardless of drinking preferences.
STAY
Lanzerac Hotel & Spa
Around an hour’s drive from Cape Town is Lanzerac Hotel & Spa, in the Jonkershoek Valley near Stellenbosch, a property boasting a rich history that stretches back more than three centuries. The estate’s comprehensive refurbishment following a fire in 2017 has only enhanced its beauty, with each space blending original architectural features with modern luxuries to offer guests a peaceful retreat.
Enjoy a picnic rustled up by the Lanzerac deli in lush gardens, set against the backdrop of the Jonkershoek mountains. And make sure you set aside a decent amount of time to enjoy the spa, where you can swim some leisurely laps in their indoor heated pool or lift some weights in their fitness room, relaxing in the hot tub once you’re done. Vitality Corner, their spa cafe, serves some delicious juices. Try Inner Body Boost, containing an immune-supportive blend of orange, carrot, turmeric, cucumber, flax seed, and beetroot. Who says rejuvenation can’t be part of the wine farm experience?
The Last Word Constantia
©Last Word Hotels
Located a mere twenty minutes from Cape Town, Last Word, part of the Last Word Hotel Group, with five boutique hotels across South Africa, sits in South Africa’s historic wine region, Constantia. This sanctuary has nine large, luxurious rooms, complemented by an inviting pool set against the majestic backdrop of Table Mountain. The spacious rooms are pure comfort; think bouquets of fresh flowers, cosy under-floor heating and little treats left on the bed following the turndown service. The ensuite bathrooms are extravagant and all rooms open onto private patios leading down to the garden and pool.
While away the days reading by the pool with a slice of their daily homemade bake (think of all the sugar you are avoiding, passing on the wine), and make sure to arrange an in-room massage via their complimentary concierge service. The attentive and warm staff are a testament to Last Word’s ‘beyond boutique’ approach to hospitality, going above and beyond to ensure you have a wonderful stay.
Cellars-Hohenort
Encased within nine acres of gardens, 17th century manor Cellars-Hohenort is a Cape Town institution and part of the esteemed Liz Mcgrath hotel portfolio. Here, there is a range of double rooms, suites and a couple of villas. The Cape Dutch-style architecture provides a stark contrast to the vibrant and kitsch interiors, picture striped wallpaper, patterned sofas and playful colour clashing. The Madiba Villa, named after former South African president, Nelson Mandela, is a brilliant option for groups of friends and families. Plus, the gardens are a sight to behold. Immerse yourself in the Rose Garden, brimming with more than 2500 roses in full bloom. Play some tennis on their sprawling court, or work up a sweat in their fitness studio, leaving time to kick back in their spa with a variety of treatments ranging from micro needling to mud wraps and hot stone massages. You can even nab a bouncy blow dry at their hair salon.
At the weekends, a high tea draws in the crowds. The scones, served with strawberry jam and Chantilly cream, are particularly noteworthy. Jam or cream first? This is a judgement-free zone. However, make sure you leave space for dinner at their esteemed restaurant, The Conservatory. Start with the five-spice soft shell crab tempura, followed by the confit pork belly with braised tomato chutney, truffle, asparagus and pearl onion for main – a true feast for the senses.
EAT
Tashas
For a laid-back dining experience, look no further than Tashas in Constantia. Tasha says, “eating out should be a celebration of food, people and life”, and Tashas reflects exactly that. Enjoy uncomplicated comfort food prepared with locally sourced South African ingredients. Tashas is also next to The Constantia Village mall, so you could combine your meal with some shopping, or treat yourself to a manicure at Sorbet.
La Colombe
La Colombe Restaurant, 2021 | Food
Serving a fusion of French and Asian cuisine, this Constantia gem offers fine dining in an elevated setting. The culinary journey begins with inventive amuse-bouches, such as a mock tin of canned meat revealing a delicately seared tuna tataki, setting the stage for a meal where both creativity and taste combined are paramount.
Babel
Housed in an old cow shed in the iconic Babylonstoren estate in Paarl, Babel has a farm-to-fork philosophy, meaning that they serve food which is seasonal and reflects their ‘pick, clean and serve’ approach. Opt for some water buffalo mozzarella, wilted winter greens and toasted Nonpareil almonds to start, followed by some local line fish paired with braised fennel, winter citrus and fynbos. And drinks-wise, order some of their Bitterlekker, a non-alcoholic aperitif made with blood orange, grapefruit, rosemary and Babylonstoren honeybush. Bliss.
TO DO
Olive Oil Tasting
Make sure you leave some time before dining at Babel to enjoy a self-guided walk around the grounds followed by an olive oil tour and tasting session at Babylonstoren. This experience is new, having just opened in April of this year. Just be careful not to overdo it on the chunky sourdough bread they provide for dipping, before lunch.
Hiking
Zip Lining
Why rely on alcohol for excitement when you can find thrills elsewhere? SA Forest Adventures offers a fantastic zip lining experience in Constantia, with panoramic views of Table Mountain National Park Reserve. Marvel at the natural beauty as you glide between 12 platforms, smug in the assurance that your adventure won’t leave you nursing a headache the next day.
Golf
Naturally, such landscapes also offer themselves well to a spot of golf. Whether you’ve got a handicap or looking to start out, Stellenbosch Golf Club, Steenberg Golf Club, De Zalze Golf Club and Royal Cape Golf Club are all brilliant options.
Lead image credit: Babel, South Africa
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