The Winelands: Stellenbosch and Franschhoek

Discover the wine culture of South Africa

Pure enjoyment - that's what the numerous wine regions in South Africa promise. There are various wine-growing regions here that have the reputation of being the most beautiful in the world. Endless landscapes framed by massive mountain ranges and the vastness of the ocean do honour to this reputation. With Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, we have picked out two of the most important Winelands in South Africa to give you an insight into the beautiful landscape and its precious treasures.

Written by: Dana Leidel Last updated at: September 11, 2024

Best time to travel

Jan J

Feb F

Mar M

Apr A

May M

Jun J

Jul J

Aug A

Sep S

Oct O

Nov N

Dec D

A visit to Stellenbosch

Located around fifty kilometres east of Cape Town, Stellenbosch has something to delight the senses with its picturesque wine route, excellent wineries and fine restaurants. This is complemented by a pronounced sense of art and culture. South Africans come up with quite a few ideas: From concerts and food events to creative or nature workshops, there is a colourful mix of events throughout the year. There are also plenty of museums, galleries and shops in Stellenbosch.

Art is a top priority in Stellenbosch

In the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden, for example, you can marvel at rustic sculptures in the middle of a nature-rich hiking area, where the works of art compete with the diverse flora. Abstract paintings and paintings inspired by flora and fauna can be admired at the Rupert Museum, the Gavin Collins Art Gallery and The Red Teapot Gallery. And while the GUS Gallery provides an insight into the African world of fashion, you can pick up modern pieces of jewellery with African details at the Hombisa Jewellery goldsmiths.

Picknick im Gras an einem Fluss in Stellenbosch

Franschhoek: France merges with South Africa

A little further east lies Franschhoek - a wine region in South Africa characterised by French influences. Huguenot immigrants in the 17th century fully utilised the potential of this region and created the basis for today's fine wines. This is complemented by first-class restaurants, whose dishes are the perfect accompaniment to the fine wines.

Insights into the history, art and culture of Franschhoek

But Franschhoek is also rich in art and culture: the Huguenot Memorial Museum also offers interesting information about the history of the Huguenots. Other art galleries as well as boutiques, cafés and restaurants can be found on Franschhoek's main street. A great backdrop of charming old-style and modern buildings awaits you here. The Franschhoek Village Market is also worth a visit every Saturday - with live music in the background, it offers unusual handicrafts and culinary delights, among other things. A special highlight is the First South African Perfume Museum, which sheds light on the art history of perfume.

A taste of the fine wines

Naturally, there is a wide range of wine tastings on offer within the Winelands in South Africa. Whether hiking tours including wine tastings and lunch, a trip on the Wine Tram or e-bike tours through the wine regions - thanks to the wonderful landscape, the fresh selection can be ideally combined with active nature experiences.

The Wine Tram, for example, takes its guests through the popular wine region in South Africa in nine to ten hours. The Franschhoek tram travels as far as Stellenbosch and combines a sightseeing tour through nature with stops for wine tastings.

At the Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne Festival, which takes place annually in December, (sparkling) wine lovers can also enjoy sparkling wine tastings. An exuberant atmosphere, underpinned by music and the South African joie de vivre, makes this event a successful experience.

Tip: Make sure you book the individual events in good time.

The Winelands in South Africa

Join us on a journey of discovery to the wine estates around Stellenbosch and Franschhoek: you will find relaxing retreats in a luxurious ambience in the midst of beautiful nature. Here you will experience idyllic moments for a perfect time-out. Noble restaurants, wine tastings, leisure programmes and wellness facilities skilfully round off the unique holiday experience.

Babylonstoren Wine Estate

Babylonstoren is one of the most beautiful winelands in South Africa. Situated in the Franschhoek wine valley, nothing is left to chance on this wine estate: With precision-landscaped gardens, rustic and modern farmhouses, a fruit and vegetable garden whose diversity benefits the restaurant kitchens, a farm shop and a spa surrounded by tall bamboo with a range of wellness treatments, pools and a fitness area, this farm stands out in South Africa's wine region.

Boschendal Wine Estate

Farm meets luxury - the Boschendal wine estate combines classic farm life with all the luxury that a comfortable stay requires. Against a rustic mountain backdrop, various cottages, suites and villas with their very own charm await their future residents. A historic farm, orchards, restaurants with freshly harvested delicacies, an art gallery and a variety of leisure activities for young and old await guests at this enchanting wine estate in Franschhoek.

Mont Rochelle

At this location, the vineyards compete with the mountain peaks: even at first glance, you feel transported to another world that radiates a welcome sense of calm. Individually designed rooms and suites as well as a secluded luxury villa offer everything your heart desires with stylish and comfortable furnishings. Sauna sessions and massages are a wonderful way to unwind. The hotel's own restaurants also offer a fantastic variety to melt away. Situated on a wine estate in Franschhoek, the hotel also offers beauty treatments, a tennis court and adventurous excursions in the surrounding area.

Leeu Estate

The Leeu Collection presents a wine estate of the highest luxury in the wine region of South Africa. It combines a selection of glamorous accommodation, culinary innovations with ingredients grown on the estate, the famous wines of the Mullineux & Leeu family and a breathtaking spa with equally breathtaking views.

Spier Wine Farm

One of the oldest wine estates in South Africa is located near Stellenbosch. Spier Wine Farm stands for careful winegrowing and a special appreciation of art. With the Spier Art Collection, you can marvel at the largest collection of contemporary works in South Africa. Various projects in the field of social and ecological development form the missionary centrepiece of this estate. Regenerative agriculture, ecological restoration and the promotion of art projects are the focus here.