The Winelands are within easy reach to the east of Cape Town, under an hours drive away. If you love wine [like me] you may recognise some of the names of the towns such as Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. It’s a beautiful part of the country; mountainous with lush valleys and lots of vineyards of course.
There are numerous accommodation options and the pretty town of Stellenbosch is a popular chioice. Many vineyards offer accommodation too so it’s worth doing some research. My youngest daughter Monique stayed with her boyfriend in a delightful cabin at Louisvale which is not far from Stellenbosch and the setting was stunning. My eldest daughter Leora got married to Jojo at Molenvliet and we stayed there for three nights, an incredible venue.
Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa [after Cape Town] is a university town so it can get quite lively in term time but it had a relaxed spacious feel about it when we visited in the Easter holiday. There are attractive tree lined streets, clean white buildings, tempting cafes and restaurants. There’s plenty to see and do in the town – museums, a botanical garden and Moederkerk, a fine 19th century church. It’s ideally situated as a base to explore the Winelands.
The wine tram was great fun and it takes you through stunning countryside. There are several packages to choose from or you can book a hop-on hop-off experience. We went on the group experience with a shuttle bus from Franschhoek to Groot Drakenstein station where the tram was waiting. We were offered wine on the tram on the way to the wine tasting at Boschendal before lunch [and more wine] at Plaisir Wine Estate. [photo of my daughters above]. The lunch was great – we opted for the cheese sharing platter. Overall the whole experience – the food, the company and the wine was wonderful.
This was another wonderful experience. An evening picnic in the grounds of Boschendal Wine Estate complete with quality live entertainment, a large variety of quality food and wine to purchase. The Boschendal shop and deli was also open. The event is free but you need to secure tickets in advance to guarantee entry. Don’t forget your picnic blanket !
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