The Best Wine Farm Destinations in The Cape
Take a day trip to see the country.
With social-distancing becoming a must, people are increasingly looking for places that offer outdoor entertaining. We are fortunate to live in a city bordered by five historic viticultural zones - all less that an hour from the center - where there are hundreds of wineries with the promise, among other things, of vast open spaces, top-quality wine, and delicious local cuisine.
We set out to find the best wine farms. From Stellenbosch, Paarl, Franschhoek to Durbanville, Constantia, we found a host of sensory delights. This includes restaurants, hotels, shops, art galleries, outdoor adventures, and, perhaps most importantly, a safe and immersive children's area where kids can play and parents can attend to the business of wine tasting.
Babylonstoren
The Drakenstein Valley's 200-hectare farm is almost halfway between Franschhoek & Paarl. It dates back to 1692. Karen Roos, a stylish former magazine editor, has created this ultimate destination. You will find a multitude of sensory pleasures. But the true luxury lies in the authenticity of the place.
- Food There are several options available for you to eat: The Greenhouse, the more casual, The Bakery with pizza nights, and Babel.
- Wine tasting Located next to the vintage cellar is a modern tasting room where oenophiles can sit back and relax while enjoying a few glasses Babylonstoren wines.
- Kids' facilities: The entire farm is a safe place for children. They can visit the farm animals, such as the porcupine. There are endless gardens with water features and mazes to explore. Ice-cream trucks and Porky Hefer's Nest chair.
- Shops The Babylonstoren Farm Shop sell freshly baked bread, cheeses and biltong. The adjacent Lekker Room stocks sweet treats, nuts, chocolates and other goodies. You will also find the Scented Room, which is beautifully stocked with soaps and bath products.
- Other things to do: The Garden Spa, The Spice Garden, The Healing Garden & Tea Ceremony, The Juicery, and The Juicery.
- Stay If you want to experience the tranquility of a garden paradise for a night, the Babylonstoren hotel offers an unpretentious and sumptuous taste of farm life.
Boschendal
Boschendal wine farm is one of the most beloved in the Western Cape because of its natural beauty. With its beautiful oaks, forests and unspoiled gardens, it is among the best. The Manor House displays many antiques and artifacts that date back to 1685.
- Food Visit The Werf for casual fine-dining farm to table dining with breathtaking views of the huge herb and vegetable gardens. Sandwiches and burgers are available at the Deli. You can also book a picnic in The Rhone rose garden.
- Wine tasting: The Cellar Door, located under the oats is open on weekends and public holidays to allow wine tasting. You can also order a charcuterie platter to go along with your wine. Try a choc-and–wine pairing.
- The Tree House, a fun and safe playground and pump track for children between 5 and 14, is the perfect place for them. The Outdoor Experience Programme offers a great range of educational and entertaining activities for children and is led by professionals.
- Shops The recently renovated Farm Shop and Butchery has a variety of freshly baked goods, condiments and preserveds. There is also a carefully curated collection of bespoke homeware.
- Things to Do Outdoor enthusiasts have the option of taking part in one of five trails for mountain biking, on farm hikes, or booking a horse-riding trip.
- Stay There are several luxury accommodation options at Boschendal.
