A holiday in South Africa is not complete for many travellers without visiting the famous wine lands. The regions of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek form the vibrant heart of South Africa’s wine culture.
But beyond these well-known destinations there are many more places where, during a wine holiday in South Africa, you can taste, learn and enjoy exceptional wines.
Travellers who want to learn more about the history of South African winemaking can also take a wine walk in Constantia, just outside Cape Town.
In this blog we take you to Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Constantia: three wine regions, each with its own character.
The wine regions of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are among the most beautiful areas in South Africa. Rolling vineyards, historic estates and a vibrant culinary scene define the landscape.
It is a destination where wine lovers, food enthusiasts and nature lovers alike will feel at home.
One of the most enjoyable ways to visit several wine estates is with the Franschhoek wine tram.
This hop-on hop-off tram travels through the Franschhoek Valley and stops at various wine estates. Visitors can easily hop on and off, taste wines and enjoy spectacular views of vineyards and surrounding mountains along the way.
A major advantage is that you don’t have to drive yourself, allowing you to sample several wines without worrying about transport.
The wine tram operates several routes, each identified by a different colour. If there are specific estates you would like to visit, it is advisable to check in advance which route includes them. Tickets can easily be purchased on the central square in Franschhoek.
While Franschhoek has the charm of a picturesque village, Stellenbosch is an elegant university town with white Cape Dutch buildings and oak-lined streets.
Stellenbosch is internationally renowned for its powerful red wines in the style of Bordeaux. Expect elegant blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Many of the estates are large and historic and have been producing high-quality wines for generations.
Both Franschhoek and Stellenbosch are well known as culinary hotspots. The region boasts an impressive number of restaurants, including several award-winning and fine-dining establishments.
From refined tasting menus to relaxed picnics among the vineyards, food and wine go hand in hand here. It is advisable to plan in advance which restaurants and wine estates you would like to visit so you can organise your day accordingly.
Just outside Cape Town lies the lush and historic valley of Constantia. This is the oldest wine region in South Africa and the place where the country’s wine tradition began more than three centuries ago.
If you do not have time during your stay in Cape Town to travel to Stellenbosch or Franschhoek, the Constantia wine walk is an excellent alternative.
This scenic wine walk is approximately 6 kilometres long and connects three historic wine estates. A moderate level of fitness is required, as the route takes you through vineyards, oak-lined avenues and rolling hills with views of the surrounding mountains.
During the walk you visit three iconic estates:
At each estate you taste several wines while learning more about the region’s rich history.
The history of the Constantia Valley begins in 1652 when Jan van Riebeeck established a refreshment station at the Cape on behalf of the Dutch East India Company. Not long afterwards the first vines were planted.
The real development of winemaking began under governor Simon van der Stel. In 1685 he founded the Constantia estate, laying the foundation for a wine tradition that would eventually become famous worldwide.
After his death, the estate was divided into several properties, including Groot Constantia and Klein Constantia. His son, Willem Adriaan van der Stel, also played an important role in the development of agriculture and winemaking in the Cape.
The walk begins at Groot Constantia, the oldest wine estate in South Africa. The Cape Dutch buildings and historic wine cellars provide a fascinating glimpse into the earliest wine production in the region.
Over the centuries the estate passed through the hands of several owners, including Johannes Colijn, who further developed the property. Today, Groot Constantia is a national monument and an important place to learn about the history of South African winemaking.
One of the highlights of the walk is a visit to Klein Constantia, where the world-famous dessert wine Vin de Constance is produced.
In the 18th and 19th centuries this wine was highly sought after by European royalty and writers and was served to important statesmen.
Even Nelson Mandela was once offered a glass of this remarkable wine. Although he rarely drank alcohol, he made an exception for a glass of Vin de Constance during a visit to Klein Constantia.
During the wine walk you can taste this famous wine yourself: a moment many visitors look forward to.
The third stop is Buitenverwachting, beautifully located between mountains and vineyards.
The estate once faced financial challenges but managed to rebuild its reputation with the success of an accessible entry-level wine. Today, Buitenverwachting is known for its elegant white wines.
After the walk you can often enjoy lunch or a cheese platter here while overlooking the vineyards.
The Constantia wine walk is more than just a wine tasting. It is a journey through more than three centuries of wine history, revealing how South African winemaking has evolved.
With a route of around 6 kilometres, three unique wine estates and several tastings along the way, it is a relaxed and educational way to discover the region.
Would you like to experience a wine walk through Constantia during your stay in Cape Town? Let us know and we would be happy to help you plan a journey to South Africa where the wine lands, nature, culture and safari come together. Check our example itinerarys or contact us for more information.
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