Want to soak up the last of the summer rays and see the captivating Cape Winelands during the bustling grape harvest season? Now is the best time to plan a trip.
The weather is also a little cooler and the grapes are ripe, hanging from the vines and making for beautiful scenery. Everywhere is bustling with activity and the harvest season continues for about two months because the wine grapes ripen at different rates.
Here’s a collection of our best ways to explore.
5 of the best summer harvest festivals in the Winelands
Overlooking the Franschhoek Valley on the second morning of our trip, where elephants once famously roamed. Photo by Matt Sterne.
Do it: Where are these festivals?
The locals’ guide to an excellent Overberg stay
Oak Valley Views in the delightful Overberg.
Just over Sir Lowry’s Pass is the Groenlandberg Conservancy around Elgin, on the left-hand side of the N2, and the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve on the right. We gathered 11 amazing recommendations for exploring the Overberg.
Do it: Discover an authentic Overberg
21 of the best pre-ordered picnics in the Cape Winelands
In keeping with Spier’s ethos, their picnic packaging is 100% biodegradable and compostable.
Do it: Yes, picnics are my thing
20 things to do in the Winelands for under R100
It’s not all wine-tasting in Franschhoek – there’s a microbrewery too, conveniently situated on the main drag. The Tuk Tuk craft beers, are handcrafted on-site.
Do it: Yup, the budget is a little tight
The locals’ guide to exploring the Boland and beyond
Vondeling has a long-running project listing and protecting the rare fynbos species on its land.
Beyond the Stellenbosch Winelands there’s Paarl, the Breede River Valley, the Swartland and eventually the Cederberg, which all beckon with scenic splendour and a slower pace. The distances are greater, so it takes more time to explore these places, but it’s worth it.
Do it: I’m big on the Boland – let’s go!
10 wine routes near Cape Town you don’t already know about
Stanford is a well-loved weekend getaway for Capetonians and their eight wine farms have plenty to offer with beautiful restaurants, picnics and overnight accommodation. This is Stanford Valley Guest Farm. Photo by Teagan Cunniffe.
Do it: Yes, I’m defintely an adventurous wine-lover
The locals’ guide to an ultimate Simonsberg getaway
Villiera Wildlife Sanctuary protects 220 hectares of indigenous flora and fauna.
Do it: Take me to the Simonsberg
13 wine stays worth dreaming about this summer
The beautifully restored self-catering vineyard guesthouses are ideal for a restful Wineland getaway.
Do it: I dream of wine all the time
