For convenience and time efficiency, if our focus is on the best wine, we tend to focus on the Stellenbosch region.

But there is a lot more to it than just wine …

Stellenbosch is a charming, attractive and bustling 350 year old country town just 45 minutes from Cape Town, with a lively energy thanks to its 30 000 university students. Franschhoek has more of a village feel. Both are very pleasant and walkable, and offer good quality shops and galleries (just as good as in Cape Town).

Wineries range from commercial to boutique, with some hidden gems tucked into the valleys, complemented by a staggering variety of great restaurants. We can choose one for lunch based on your preference: light and casual, more elegant, or a gastronomic experience (which can still be very informal in atmosphere).

Traveling between the towns takes us over spectacular mountain passes and through idyllic countryside. The mountainous landscape is punctuated by beautiful homesteads in the signature Cape Dutch architectural style.

If your main goal is to visit wineries and taste / purchase wine, we usually fit in three wineries. But this does allow a little time to stroll in either of the towns.

It is entirely up to you how much you would like to focus on wineries vs other places of interest. Whether you are serious wine connoisseurs or a family looking for a fun day out, there’s something for everyone!

We can decide which wineries or other places of interest to visit, based on your interests such as taste in wine, as well as other aspects such as history, architecture, homes & gardens, art, conservation (Cheetah Outreach http://www.cheetah.co.za), walking or hiking, or shopping. The state of the art Franschhoek Motor Museum https://www.fmm.co.za is something special for car lovers.

Veering further away from wine, segway trips can be done at the Spier wine estate outside Stellenbosch, and horse riding or quad biking can be done at Vrede en Lust, in the centre of the Stellenbosch / Franschhoek / Paarl triangle – all in idyllic natural surroundings. Both venues offer excellent meals before or after the activity, and wine tastings after! See https://www.friendlycapetowntours.co.za/activities-adventures for details.

Some of my favourite wineries to visit include: Mitre’s Edge, Kanonkop, Muratie, Delheim, L’Avenir, Villiera, Simonsig, Beyerskloof, Rustenberg, Glenelly, Starke Conde, Vergelegen, Morgenster, Ken Forrester, Annandale, Ernie Els, Uva Mira, Rust en Vrede, Vergenoegd, Meerlust, Waterford, De Trafford, Thelema, Tokara, Delaire Graff, Bartinney, Oldenberg, Rainbow’s End, Glen Carlou, Babylonstoren, Vrede en Lust, Rupert & Rothschild, Anthonij Rupert, La Motte, Leeu Passant, Le Lude, Haute Cabriere, La Petite Ferme, Fairview, Spice Route and Avondale.

Suggested pick up time: 9 am. We usually get back between 5 and 6 pm.

Price:
R5 700 (South African Rand) for up to 3 passengers
R6 150 for 4 to 7 passengers
To maximize flexibility, this does not include entrance fees, which you can pay as you go.

To inquire about or book this or any other tours, please click here.