Winelands Tour Full Day

South Africa’s fertile valleys are renowned worldwide for their exquisite white wines and classic French-style reds. Beyond the wine, the region boasts a treasure trove of rustic charm, encompassing vast estates adorned with majestic oak trees.

Our journey today takes us through the country’s principal wine routes: Paarl, Stellenbosch, and Franschhoek, with a delightful lunch break along the way (individual expenses).

We embark on our adventure by visiting Paarl, a place of captivating beauty. The valley’s enchanting scenery, the clear azure skies, and the picturesque vineyards will leave you in awe. High above the valley sits the iconic Pearl of Paarl, while the Groot Drakenstein prison (formerly Victor Verster) on the outskirts of the town is renowned for the historic release of President Mandela, marking the dawn of a new South Africa. At one of the local estates, we indulge in a wine tasting and take a fascinating cellar tour.

Continuing northwest, we arrive at the charming village of Franschhoek, nestled near the Drakenstein Mountains. This idyllic settlement was established in 1688 by French immigrants fleeing religious persecution during the Huguenot era in Europe. A poignant memorial stands in the town, honoring these early settlers whose craftsmanship led to wines sought after by illustrious figures like Napoleon, Bismarck, and royalty, including Edward VII, the Prince of Wales. Here, we pause for lunch (individual expenses) and savor another delightful wine tasting at a local vineyard.

Next, we head to Stellenbosch, South Africa’s second oldest town and the historic heart of its esteemed wine region. In 1679, the Dutch East India Company’s governor, Simon van der Stel, recognized the valley’s fertility along the banks of the Eerste River, envisioning it as the perfect setting for vineyards. Over time, this town has nurtured its rich history, characterized by an elegant fusion of 18th-century Cape Dutch, Georgian, and Victorian architecture lining Dorp Street, where ancient oaks still provide shade to original water furrows. Before returning to Cape Town, we indulge in a final wine tasting, concluding our day on a truly memorable note.