Luxury holidays in Cape Winelands

Life in the Cape Winelands revolves around two tiny towns: cosmopolitan, French-influenced Franschhoek and university-crowned Stellenbosch. Despite their compact size – wedged into a scenic, soaring cleft of mountains – both punch well above their weight when it comes to gastronomy, with a constellation of refined restaurants, farm-to-fork food halls, tasting rooms and more. But, wait: you’re here for the wine, naturally, and in this oenologically obsessed area, you won’t be disappointed. There’s almost a vineyard for every day of the year, though we wouldn’t recommend it. So, prepare to arrive thirsty (hiccup).
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Areas in the Cape Winelands

When to go

Winter (June to August) isn’t an ideal time to visit South Africa, as it can get chilly and bring rain. Instead, wait until spring (September to November), when the gardens of these Winelands hotels come to life and the area’s vines take root. Summer is glorious, too (December to March), paving the way for pool parties and backyard braais; while autumn (April to May) brings harvest and the best of the region’s bounty with even-more-abundant wine and farm-to-fork meals.

Getting there

  • Planes

    Cape Town’s main international airport is a 30-minute drive to the south-west.

  • Automobiles

    Driving’s a popular way for visitors to explore South Africa and car hire is easily arranged at all major airports and city centres. Roads are well maintained and easy to navigate, especially along the main N2 highway, which snakes from Cape Town to the Garden Route and into the Eastern Cape. Many hotels offer a free shuttle around the Winelands if you want to go car free and explore the vineyards without a designated driver.