Best Wine Farms in Stellenbosch & the Cape Winelands

South Africa’s Cape Winelands are overflowing with some of the finest wines and estates in the world. We’ve put together this list of the best wine farms in Stellenbosch and the Cape Winelands that are worth stopping by for a sip.

Just an hour drive east of Cape Town is the largest and oldest wine making region in the world, known as the Cape Winelands.

A picturesque backdrop of valleys flanked by mountains, sewn together with vineyards, the Cape Winelands are not only stunning, but very approachable, even for those traveling on a budget or with no prior experience tasting wine.

Between the three main towns, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, there are over 100 extraordinary wineries you can visit. Many of these wine farms boast inexpensive tastings, generous pours, and next-level hospitality.

As a wine-lover myself, I never miss a chance to visit a wine farm while staying in Cape Town. I’ve personally been to each of the wine farms on this list—many of them more than once. 

In this guide, we are sharing the best wine farms in Stellenbosch and surrounding areas based on my personal experience. In addition, we’re sharing the best time to visit and different ways you can access and explore this region.

Wine Farms by area

More contents

• Our top picks
• Overview of Cape Winelands
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Best wine tours

Click on the links above to jump to that section, or keep reading for more detailed information on each and more of the best wine farms in Stellenbosch and the Cape Winelands.

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Are you staying nearby in Cape Town? 

Be sure to grab access to our custom Cape Town map. It’s loaded with all our favorite restaurants, hidden gems, sights and activities, so you can make the most of your time in the Mother City. Plus it includes day trips and all the best wineries on this list!

Overview of the Cape Winelands

The very first wine (ever) was produced in the Cape Winelands near the mid-1600s. Since then the region’s fertile valleys and rolling hills have slowly developed into a world-renowned network of towns.

Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl are the three most popular base camps to visit within the region. Each with an impressive variety of wine farms showcasing distinct tasting notes, personality, and awards.

If you want to stay closer to the city, Constantia is a wine producing suburb of Cape Town (just 20-30 min drive from the city center). 

• Stellenbosch: The most famous wine-producing region in the Cape Winelands known for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Bordeaux wines. The university town is filled with quaint coffee shops, restaurants, museums, and world-class accommodation.
• Franschhoek: As South Africa’s Gourmet Food Capital, this French-influenced town features centuries-old vineyards, chocolate tastings, craft beer, world-class shops, and the finest cuisine between two lush, green nature reserves.
• Paarl: Historic monuments and award-winning red wines are the main draws of the second oldest wine region in South Africa. The variety of entertaining attractions and exhibits make this an ideal base camp if you have kids. 
• Constantia: While not typically considered part of the Cape Winelands, Constantia is closest to Cape Town and hosts a handful of notable wine farms we included at the end of this article.
• Noordhoek: A laid back suburb on the coast with a single vineyard that’s notable enough for a mention on this list.

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1. Tokara Wine Estate

• Known for: Award-winning wine and world-class olive oil
• Distance from Cape Town: 58.2 km (36 miles), 46 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Telos, a Cabernet Sauvignon that defines this variety in Stellenbosch.

The Tokara Wine Estate is easily one of my favorite wineries in the region that I keep returning to again and again—both for the wine and the views.

Perched in the Simonsberg Mountains, this estate delivers sweeping vistas over Stellenbosch and False Bay, best enjoyed from their glass-enclosed tasting room (trust me, try to snag a seat there!).

Their award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc are standouts, but don’t skip their olive oil tasting—it’s a fun and unique experience.

For food, you’ve got two great options. The fine-dining Tokara Restaurant serves up beautifully plated dishes alongside a killer wine list. But if you’re after something more relaxed, the Delicatessen is a fantastic spot for a laid-back lunch, with seasonal dishes, great coffee, and even a playground for kids.

You can also pre-order a picnic to enjoy in a private little nook overlooking the vineyards—full service included!

Whether you’re here for the wine, the food, or just the views, Tokara is a must-visit in the Cape Winelands.

2. Delair Graff Estate

• Known for: One of the most prestigious wineries in the world 
• Distance from Cape Town: 59 km (36 miles), 48 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Laurence Graff Reserve, renowned as the best Cabernet Sauvignon in South Africa.

Delair Graff rose to its luxurious, world-class status in just the blink of an eye. One sip of their wine and you’ll realize why the estate is recognized as a piece of heaven and earth in Stellenbosch.

In their Wine Lounge, choose from 3 different tastings and an array of platters and snacks to pair with your wine. The servers are wine pros, giving you all the details and qualities of what separates Delair Graff from other wines.

While you’re here, you must make a reservation at either one of their restaurants: Delair Graff Restaurant or Indochine. The latter is widely recognized as one of the best restaurants in Cape Town. However, the namesake restaurant is outside on the terrace, paired with stunning views and one of my favorite places to stop for lunch.

Their spa has half and full-day services where you can relax and unwind. Stay at any of their luxurious lodges or Owner’s Villa to immerse yourself in breathtaking views, amenities, and legendary infinity pool.

3. Bartinney Wine Estate

• Known for: Hidden gem winery with stunning views and intimate tastings
• Distance from Cape Town: 50 km (31 miles), about 45 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Their Chardonnay—elegant, balanced, and full of character.

If you’re looking for a tucked-away gem with jaw-dropping views, Bartinney Wine Estate should be at the top of your list.

Perched on the slopes of the Helshoogte Pass, this boutique winery feels like a secret escape, complete with a two-tiered tasting deck that overlooks the vineyards and rolling hills beyond. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger for hours, sipping wine and soaking in the scenery.

Alongside their excellent wines, Bartinney also offers gin tastings, making it a fun option if you want to mix things up. Plus they have great charcuterie platters and a full menu.

It’s small, intimate, and never feels too crowded—just a relaxed, welcoming space to enjoy some of the best sips Stellenbosch has to offer.

4. Ernie Els Winery

• Known for: A high-end tasting experience with a touch of fun
• Distance from Cape Town: 55 km (34 miles), about 50 minutes away
• Must try: The Big Easy Red—smooth, full-bodied, and a true crowd-pleaser.

Even if you’re not a golf fan, you’ll love Ernie Els Winery. This estate, owned by the legendary golfer, has a polished yet inviting feel, with a stunning tasting room and panoramic views that stretch out over Stellenbosch.

It’s the perfect spot to kick back with a glass of their bold reds while enjoying a sophisticated (but not stuffy) atmosphere.

One of the best parts? They have a chipping green where you can test your skills. Sink a hole-in-one, and you’ll walk away with a free bottle of wine! Between the top-notch wines, upscale ambiance, and little playful touches, this is one winery that’s as much about the experience as it is about the wine.

5. Oldenburg Vineyards

• Known for: 8 Elements – major geographical features that create the unique climate and terroir of the vineyard
• Distance from Cape Town: 63 km (39 miles), 53 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: The CL Series have wines that are ‘cool’, due to the evening temperatures of the region, making for a unique tasting experience. 

Nestled in an elevated valley within an impressive mountain amphitheater, Oldenburg Vineyards has a distinct signature due to Rondekop, a round hill in the center of the farm that influences the vineyards on and around it. 

On any of their 6, carefully curated tastings you can experience their unique wine and enjoy a complimentary platter of cheese, crackers, and olives. Book your tastings in advance as reservations are necessary. 

If you’re traveling in a large group, Oldenburg’s Homestead Villa is nestled in a secluded and tranquil location and holds 200 year old Cape Dutch style that makes for a peaceful getaway.

Disclaimer: This is the only vineyard on this list that I have not personally been to. However, it made the list because the owner of my trusted tour company—with whom I always book private drivers for wine tastings—is constantly telling me this place has the “best views in all of Stellenbosch”!

6. Seven Sisters Vineyards

• Known for: One of few 100% black female-owned wineries in South Africa
• Distance from Cape Town: 41.5 km (26 miles), 31 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Sauvignon Blanc, the first South African wine to be served on board American Airlines.

The Seven Sisters Vineyard is a first-generation wine farm and is one of the most established emerging wine brands in South Africa.

What began as a piece of barren land in the heart of the Stellenbosch Winelands was soon transformed by self-taught wine entrepreneur, Vivian, whose goal is to establish a family legacy for generations to come.

During a visit, you can experience their warm and inclusive family atmosphere, which Vivian shares her story and walks you through your tasting. You can also enjoy home-cooked, authentic lunches on a terrace overlooking the planted hills of Lynedoch.

As of now, their wine tastings, pairings, and tours are only available to groups of 10+ by prior booking. If you don’t have your own group to go with, you can join a tour guide or tour operator that offers visits to their farm. 

7. Spier Wine Farm

• Known for: Regenerative farming and the oldest dated wine cellar in South Africa
• Distance from Cape Town: 42.3 km (26 miles), 32 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Gables Pinotage 2018

Spier is seeped with rich history and boasts over 80,000 sustainably farmed vines.

The estate is all-encompassing where families, foodies, romantics, and even art lovers can choose their own adventure on the farm for a well-rounded, immersive visit.

From their tasting menus, choose either from two specialized tastings, or their chocolate and wine pairing.

As for food, you have many options. You can set up a pre-ordered picnic under massive oak trees, find ready-to-eat foods at the Farm Cafe, purchase food from their pop up restaurant Bubbles and Braai, or make a reservation at the Hotel Restaurant.

Fun fact: The Stellenbosch Wine Route was established by Spier’s very own Neil Joubert.

8. Jordan Wine Estate

• Known for: Panoramic views and fiercely individual wines made from their diverse terroir
• Distance from Cape Town: 50.1 km (31 miles), 42 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: 2015 Nine Yards Chardonnay, one of their 5-star wines part of the estate’s must-try reserve collection.

The history of the Jordan Wine Estate dates back over 300 years, but after Gary and Kathy Jordan bought and replanted the estate in 1993, their legendary winemaking gave the estate its world-class status in wine, food, and accommodation in only 25 years.

From their 3 different tastings, I recommend the Reserve & Site Specific Selection where you can sample the estates most sought-after wines. No matter which you choose, though, you won’t regret adding one of their cheese or meat platters to your table.

A truly memorable experience at the Jordan Estate is their wine safari, where you can tour the vineyards in an open-style safari Land Rover that stops at spectacular and panoramic views.

Book a picnic with wine and treats from The Cellar Door, or find mouth-watering dishes at High Timber and the newly renovated Marthinus Ferreira.

Good to know: 48 hours notice is required for all picnic bookings.

9. VUUR Restaurant at Remhoogte Wine Estate

• Known for: A seven-course fire-themed pairing menu
• Distance from Cape Town: 51 km (32 miles), 45 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: The full VUUR experience, where each dish is expertly paired with local wines and the meal lasts for hours.

This entry is unique in that it’s the only restaurant mentioned on this list of best wine farms. However, it is such an incredible experience that I simply couldn’t leave it off the list!

VUUR (which means “fire” in Afrikaans) at Remhoogte Wine Estate is not just a meal—it’s an experience. 

Centered around the element of fire, this seven-course pairing menu is a culinary journey like no other, featuring open-flame cooking techniques that bring out bold and smoky flavors. Each dish is perfectly matched with local handcrafted wines, and the rustic yet elegant setting among zebras (!!!) and other game animals, makes this an unforgettable experience. 

It was hands down one of the best meals I’ve had in Cape Town, and I’ll be dreaming about it until I can return again. If you’re looking to splurge on a special meal in the Cape Winelands, this is the place to do it.

10. Babylonstoren Wine Estate

• Known for: Some of the best preserved examples of colonial farming architecture
• Distance from Cape Town: 53.2 km (33 miles), 39 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Made with French oak barrels, the old-world style Chardonnay has been named the ultimate food wine.

Babylonstoren is one of the oldest wine farms in South Africa located at the foot of the Simonsberg Mountains.

A few different wine-tastings are offered daily on a first-come-first-served basis. Their platters of charcuterie, cheese, and produce are all grown onsite and truly drool-worthy.

The epicenter of the estate is an 8-acre garden showcasing over 300 species of fruits, veggies, livestock, bees, indigenous plants, and even a rice paddy. ALL of which supply the farm-to-fork restaurants, bakery, and shop. 

After strolling the gardens, I love to stay for lunch in their Greenhouse Restaurant, which serves picnic-style food in a gorgeous setting on the property.

You could easily spend a full day touring this multifaceted estate: sampling 5 wines at their daily tastings, relaxing in the Garden Spa, or attending a workshop. Wrap up the perfect day by staying in their array of gorgeous farmhouses or cottages.

11. Boschendal Wine Estate

• Known for: One of the oldest wine estates in South Africa
• Distance from Cape Town: 61.3 km (38 miles), 43 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Boschendal Brut that uses the Cap Classique method a cellarmaster helped pioneer while working on the estate in 1981.

The sprawling estate of Boschendal is overflowing with award-winning wines and endless ways to escape from the bustle of Cape Town. The estate is so large it resembles a quaint town and has a lively community.

Choose from wine tastings under their iconic giant oak tree and opt to sip their finest wines with any of their signature platters, chocolate, cheese, or charcuterie pairings.

Tour their internationally-acclaimed rose garden, find adventure along their hiking and biking trails, explore on horseback, go swimming, or wind-down at their farm spa. 

At the WERF Restaurant, you can dine on some of the best food spreads in the Cape Winelands, with most of the ingredients sourced directly sourced from their gardens.

The weekend picnics are one of my favorites, so be sure to book them in advance!

12. Haute Cabriere

• Known for: Gentle cellar practices that allow the estates distinctive terroir to shine through their wines
• Distance from Cape Town: 76.5 km (47.5 miles), 56 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: With only 0.8 hectares of high-density planting, the Pinot Noir shines due to the phenomenal fruit and flavors harvested in this patch.

Established in 1694, Haute Cabriere celebrates the history and customs of the Champagne Valley of France by honoring the original landowner and French Huguenot, Pierre Jourdan, through their commitment to heritage, integrity, and innovation.

Enjoy wine and great company inside their stone-encased tasting room for an experience unlike any other. You can choose from 4 different tastings highlighting their signature Chardonnay and Pinot Noir varieties.

Have a pour or two with French-inspired South African cuisine at their restaurant, or stop by their bakery for fresh pastries and coffee/tea.

Insider tip: This estate is known for having the best views in all of Franschhoek from their outdoor patio overlooking the entire valley.

Good to know: This estate is cashless.

13. Holden Manz Wine Estate

• Known for: ideal conditions for ultra-premium wines 
• Distance from Cape Town: 78.2 km (48.5 miles), 58 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Rarely, when Merlot and Syrah grapes ripen at the same time, only the best berries are hand-sorted for this maiden, co-fermented wine.

Ultra premium Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Merlot are poured at the hidden gem of Franschhoek, the Holden Manz Wine Estate.

In their tasting room, choose from 6 different wine tastings catered to a variety of different palettes. Enjoy small bites from their tasting menu, reserve a table at the a la carte kitchen, or take your wine down to the Franschhoek River with a pre-ordered picnic basket. 

Their 5-star country house is in a prime location at the doorstep of the Cape Winelands. Soak in the lavish and luxurious estate and enjoy a terrace breakfast, platinum wine tasting, and in-suite wine included with your stay.

Good to know: This estate is best visited in the early morning to avoid larger crowds from the wine trams. Note though, tram visitors get a discount on tastings and cellar door prices.

14. Dieu Donne

• Known for: Limited harvest using slow-ripened grapes
• Distance from Cape Town: 75.8 km (47 miles), 57 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Dieu Donne Merlot, a pour that has earned Gold and Silver Medal accolades for over 10 years, both internationally and domestically.

Situated along the steep slopes of the Franschhoek Mountains, Dieu Donne offers spectacular mountain views that unmistakably coincide with the estates literal meaning, “A Gift from God”, or “God Given”.

The wines here have their own signature growing conditions that are only found in their corner of the valley. Because of the special conditions, the vines do not overproduce and there is a limited amount of bottles per harvest. In fact, they produce less than 14,000 cases of wine per harvest.

Try their unique pours in their tasting room, or take your experience to the next level by booking one of their cellar tours (in advance). They offer 3 different tastings with 4-5 wines each.

Pair any of their wines with the impressive menus and views offered at Country Grand, the estates onsite restaurant. If you can’t find yourself parting ways with their legendary views, you can soak them up for a bit longer by staying in their boutique hotel, Maison Montagne.

15. Vrede en Lust

• Known for: Family-owned farm flanked by the vertical cliffs of Simonsberg Mountain
• Distance from Cape Town: 56 km (35 miles), 40 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: The Anni Sauvignon Blanc has received Grand Cru National Champion Best in Class as well as the Top 100 & Double Platinum awards.

Vrede en Lust’s award-winning red and select white wines are deeply rooted in over 300 years of passionate farming. 

Choose from 5 different wine tastings, 3 of which offer cheese, Lindt chocolates, or tapas as a pairing option, and enjoy views of the Simonsberg Paarl Mountains as you sip.

Fun fact: This winery produced my all-time favorite rosé called “The Jess”.

This farm is the perfect place to getaway for a few days in the Cape Winelands with a variety of accommodation options and activities near the Paarl Valley: horse riding, golf, fly fishing, bike rentals, helicopter tours, day tours, and a wellness spa.

There’s also two restaurants onsite that offer seasonal menus that pair perfectly with their wines whether you’re here for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or tapas. 

16. Fairview Wine and Cheese

• Known for: Carbon neutral practices that are driven by ethical and sustainable standards
• Distance from Cape Town: 57.3 km (35 miles), 41 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Taste their award-winning Single Vineyard batches, where the criteria for growing is a rigorous process that includes the quality of grape, soil, climate, topography, and impact.

Fairview takes wine and dining to the next level with their world-renowned tasting rooms and commitment to both sustainability and ingenuity.

They offer five different wine and cheese tastings: Master, Farmers, Standard, Cheese, and Kids. 

Their Master Tasting that features 8 premium wines, 8 cheeses, fresh bread, and olive oil is one of the most sought-after tastings in the Winelands, and gives you the complete Fairview experience.

Peruse their Deli for a variety of homemade and sustainable local products like artisanal bread and old-fashioned jams, meet the farm’s furry mascot at the Goat Tower, or book a table or picnic at the Goatshed.

17. Constantia Glen

• Known for: Ultra-premium, cool-climate wines
• Distance from Cape Town: 17.9 km (11 miles), 19 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Constantia Glen Three, a Bordeaux-style red blend showcasing the region’s signature elegance.

Perched on the slopes of the Constantia Valley, Constantia Glen offers breathtaking panoramic views over vineyards and the city beyond. 

Known for its exceptional Bordeaux-style blends, this boutique wine estate is a must-visit for those seeking a refined yet laid-back tasting experience. Pair your wine with one of their generous charcuterie and cheese platters—one of my favorites! 

Whether you’re seated on their terrace overlooking the views, or in their cozy tasting room, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable experience of Constantia’s cool-climate wines.

18. Beau Constantia

• Known for: Panoramic views from their glass-encased tasting room
• Distance from Cape Town: 16.7 km (10 miles), 19 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Sample their Pas de Nom Range, a wine that was crafted as a homage to Oom Japie Bronn, who first managed the farm and devoted his life to establishing their signature high-altitude vineyards.

Sitting on the steepest agricultural slopes in the Cape, Beau Constantia offers unspoiled views of the Stellenbosch and Helderberg Mountain ranges, and False Bay as you sample award-winning wines.

Inside the wine room, you can choose from 2 of their signature tastings, Pas de Nom or Beau Constantia. If you’re a foodie, the tasting platters are a must-try as they’re a culinary experience in and of themselves!

Or you can reserve a table at the Chef’s Warehouse (one of the best restaurants in Cape Town), pairing the wine with the chef’s classic and experimental plates. On weekends, you can keep things casual at the farm’s rotating food truck.

Good to know: This farm has one of the most sought-after views of Cape Town, so book your tastings in the Glass House (if it isn’t too hot) or the Veranda ahead of time, online. 

19. Buitenverwachting

• Known for: Relaxed, self-serve wine picnics on a sprawling lawn
• Distance from Cape Town: 20 km (12 miles), 25 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Buiten Blanc, a crisp, easy-drinking white that’s perfect for warm afternoons.

For a laid-back afternoon without venturing too far outside of the city, Buitenverwachting is hard to beat. This historic estate offers a unique self-service wine picnic experience, where you can grab a bottle and order a picnic to be delivered right to your blanket.

Surrounded by towering oak trees (offering lots of shaded areas!), it’s the perfect setting for a relaxed day in the sun. The place is also very family-friendly, although it can get a bit crowded (and rowdy) on weekends during the summertime. 

The wines here are fresh and vibrant, reflecting the cool maritime climate of the Constantia Valley. If you’re looking for an unpretentious yet charming wine-tasting experience, Buitenverwachting is the place to be.

20. Cape Point Vineyards

• Known for: Spectacular sunsets and a lively Thursday night market
• Distance from Cape Town: 35 km (22 miles), 40 minutes away
• Google Maps location
• Must try: Cape Point Sauvignon Blanc, a crisp white wine that captures the ocean’s influence on the vines.

Nestled between mountain and sea, Cape Point Vineyards is a dreamy spot for an afternoon of wine tasting. Their Sauvignon Blancs are among the best in South Africa, thanks to the vineyard’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which creates ideal growing conditions. 

However, what truly sets this estate apart is its Thursday night market, where locals and visitors gather for delicious food, live music, and an unbeatable sunset view over Noordhoek Beach. 

If you’re looking for a wine farm that combines great wines with a lively atmosphere, the Cape Point Vineyards Thursday Night Market is a must.

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Best time to visit the Cape Winelands

February to May are the best months for sipping in the Cape Winelands.

The grapes are the ripest for picking in February and March during the beginning of the autumn harvest. 

During this time there are many wine festivals going on to celebrate one of the world’s greatest wine regions, and the weather is sunny and warm, but not too hot.  

Since this is the most popular time to visit, avoid crowds by starting earlier in the morning and planning your trip on a weekday.

→ Psst! You’ll find our guide to the best time to visit South Africa helpful to get the full breakdown on what makes each season distinct and unique to help cater to your trip.

How to get to the Cape Winelands

Just east of Cape Town, the gateway to the Cape Winelands region is easy to access using a variety of different transport options. 

Self-drive

With your own rental car, there are two main roads you can take from Cape Town to get to the Winelands: N1 and N2.

Each route takes about the same amount of time to get to Stellenbosch, then you can access any of the smaller towns from there.

Although a rental is a great way to access many of the best wine farms in Stellenbosch and the rest of the winelands, don’t drink and drive!

We highly recommend using Discover Cars to find rental cars in South Africa. You can compare prices across the top, reputable rental companies all at once to get the best price possible. 

Note: I’ve personally found some of the best deals on Discover Cars in Cape Town that saved me a lot of money when compared with rates from other companies. 

Uber

Ubers can be a great option for getting from Cape Town to the Winelands. 

You can expect to pay around 450 Rand ($25 USD) to get to Stellenbosch, or more if you plan on visiting more than one winery.

If you’re splitting the ride with others this can be very affordable, but it comes with a few caveats:

• From Cape Town, it’s a long ride to the winelands and a lot of the Ubers do not have AC. 
• If you’re planning on staying late in the winelands, you risk waiting awhile to get an Uber back into the city.

Hire a driver and shuttle

If you’re planning on getting boozy at more than one winery, hiring a driver or shuttle gives immense peace of mind at very reasonable prices.

Reveler Tours is my go-to company for hiring a private driver for wine tasting. They have a variety of different sized vans and rates, making it a nice option even if you’re traveling solo or with a larger group.

You can contact them by sending an inquiry online or messaging them on Whatsapp with the number of travelers and what wine experience you’re looking for.

Best wine tours in the Cape Winelands

Joining a tour is an excellent way to explore multiple wineries for a boozy day trip. We recommend these tours that include transport to and from Cape Town.

Franschhoek Wine Tram

The Franschhoek Wine Tram is a hop-on-hop-off experience that takes you through some of the best wineries in the Franschhoek Valley. 

You can choose from 10 different lines, all visiting a unique selection of 8-9 of the best wine estates in specific areas of the valley. 

This tram gives you the ultimate freedom since you can choose how long you spend at each estate, where to eat/drink, and activities along the route.

Cape Town: Full-Day Winelands Tour with Wine Tastings & Food

Discover some of South Africa’s top, award-winning wines on this tour of Cape Town’s most renowned wineries.

This Winelands tour begins north in the Paarl region, where you’ll sample their famed cheese and wine pairings, basking in the countryside views.

From there, you’ll travel to the French-influenced town of Franschhoek, known for its verdant mountain views and rich chapter in South Africa’s wine history. 

The final stop is through the famous wine farms in Stellenbosch to sample the country’s signature Pinotage at award-winning farms. End the tour with a Capetonian a la carte lunch and visit to a historic slave farm turned community wine project

What you need to know:

• Price: $81 / person
• Location: Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek

What guests are saying:

“Denis was a superb host! He was great at engaging with the tour group with both historical information regarding Cape Town wine lands but also with general humor. Each of the wine estates had their own personality and great wine and scenic views. A memorable experience for sure and one that I will always remember.” – Jeremy, United States (January, 2023)

Stellenbosch: Historical Bike Tour & Wine Tasting

This adventurous bike tour through Stellenbosch and the Jonkershoek Valley begins in Cape Town, where you’ll meet your guides, collect your bikes, and begin riding to your first stop.

You’ll cruise through historic sites around Stellenbosch and winding roads lined with oak forests before arriving at the first wine estate at the end of Jonkershoek Valley. Sample award-winning wines, then cycle to the second and final estate of the day.

Join a private cellar tour and enjoy a chocolate and wine pairing admiring historic Cape Dutch architecture, before making your way back to Cape Town.

Variations of this 4-5 hour tour can be arranged depending on your cycling abilities. They also have eBikes available to rent for R150 for a more relaxing ride.

What you need to know:

• Price: $55 / person
• Location: Stellenbosch and the Jonkershoek Valley

What guests are saying:

“…The tour delivered in every aspect. Our host Sevvo was informative, personable and charismatic! We had lovely weather and a tour took us through the history of the town and out to two beautiful vineyards. We sampled some wine and learnt a lot about the local wine making processes and history. We couldn’t have asked for more and would recommend this tour for people of all ages and abilities!” – Pete (October, 2019)

African Story Wine Tours in the Cape Winelands

This expert-led wine tour takes you through the three most famous regions of the Cape Winelands: Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek.

Visit 4 different premier wineries, sampling a variety of red and white wines, as well as regional specialities of chocolate, cheese, and olives.

Because this is a small group tour, you will get a more comprehensive introduction to South African wines and have a more intimate tasting experience. 

What you need to know:

• Price: $80
• Location: Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek

What guests are saying:

“Our guide Phenus made everything enjoyable from start to finish. The wineries were a wonderful varied combination offering an informal educational tasting experience. […] Thank you African Story Wine Tours for a memorable day.” – Trishchad, Jan 2023

Blend and bottle your own wine Stellenbosch wine experience

Take your visit to the Cape Winelands to the next level with this authentic and personal wine tasting tour. Visit the most accoladed wineries in Stellenbosch, ending your tour by blending and bottling your very own bottle of wine.

You’ll enjoy a full cellar tour of award-winning wines, take part in a master class in wine etiquette, take a peek into South Africa’s top winemaker’s cellar, and an a la carte lunch on a terrace with beautiful views of the Stellenbosch Valley.

This is an ideal tour if you want a more in-depth visit to the most prestigious region of the Cape Winelands, sipping award-winning wines and listening to Stellenbosch’s most significant stories and rich-history.

What you need to know:

• Price: $100
• Location: Stellenbosch

What guests are saying:

“Robby was an absolute delight! He was so knowledgeable and a complete pleasure with both facts regarding surrounding areas of Cape Town and the wine experience. He had everything well planned out, a comfortable presence, a friendly and humorous demeanor, and was truly the best guide one could ask for. […] I cannot wait to come back to Cape Town and partake in more of the tours and experiences he and his family offers.” – Trip Advisor Reviewer (September, 2022)

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Plan your trip to South Africa

We have TONS of resources on travel in South Africa and how to make the most out of your trip. Check out our South Africa Homepage for all the answers to your most popular questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Start by reading up on the best time to visit South Africa. 
• Check out all of our top recommendations for things to do in Cape Town.
• If it’s your first time visiting, this ultimate Cape Town travel guide is just for you!
• Save this list of cool Cape Town Airbnbs for when you’re ready to book your accommodation. 
• These are the best day trips from Cape Town you should put on your itinerary.
• Read this before you book the Franschhoek Wine Tram—the best way to visit the Cape winelands!
• Plan your Garden Route road trip with our excellent guide. 
• If you’re planning on visiting a game reserve, make sure you know what to wear on safari (+ what NOT to wear!).

Don’t miss your chance to grab our custom Cape Town map!

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We want to hear from you!

Which of these wine farms in Stellenbosch and the Cape Winelands are you most excited about visiting? Have you been to the Cape Winelands and have a wine farm you think should be on this list? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you with the answers you need!