The Western Cape is wine Mecca, boasting countless world-class wine farms. The majority of them have breathtaking views of mountains, rolling hills or lush vineyards and are famous not only for their excellent wines, but their scenery too.
Many people tend to think of Cape Town or Stellenbosch when they want to visit a wine farm but just a tiny stretch north, the Breede River Valley lies waiting, dotted with exquisite estates. The valley, named after the beautiful like-named river that flows through it, is surrounded by several mountain ranges including the Hex River Mountains, the Skurweberge range, the Langeberg Mountains, the Boland Mountains and the Riviersonderend Mountains.
The charming towns you’ll find sitting among them are the likes of Tulbagh, McGregor, Rawsonville, Ashton, Montagu and Bonnievale, each of them reachable within a few hours’ drive from the Mother City.
Read: Things to do in Montagu
Take a look at these incredible wineries well worth a visit.
1. Botha
Credit: Danie Nel
Situated near Worcester, Botha Kelder boasts a string of international awards and accolades for their exceptional wine. The wide open spaces, greenery and views of the surrounding mountains all complement their wines perfectly. Expect to be bowled over by the service, tastes, smells and sights.
2. Bergsig Estate
This lovely property near Worcester is an absolute delight. Get comfortable on their outdoors stoep and take in the stunning surroundings. Lean back while sipping on exceptional wine where the vines are fed by water accumulated from mountain streams. You can also tuck into a bite from their delicious bistro.
3. Du Preez Estate
Du Preez Estate is tucked away in the Du Toitskloof mountains near Rawsonville. Here, you can while away the hours around a beautiful bottle of wine in the shadows of the age-old oak trees. There is also a venue to hire for private functions.
4. Brandvlei Cellar | BC
On the R43 road between Worcester and Villiersdorp, the Brandvlei Cellar offers a serene wine-drinking experience. Their wines have been awarded several prestigious awards, and the quality of the wine is only amplified by the tranquil scenery.
5. Lemberg Wine Estate
One of Tulbagh’s many jewels, Lemberg Wine Estate is surrounded by the Witzenberg and Winterhoek Mountains. The Estate’s resident bulldogs are likely the first of many friendly faces that will greet you upon arrival before you indulge in a glass of brilliant wine. They also offer accommodation.
6. Deetlefs Wine Estate
Credit: @InspiredLivingSA
Deetlefs Wine Estate near Rawsonville is the second oldest wine estate in South Africa under ownership of the same family, established in 1822 and will celebrate their 200 years of existence in 2022. Their handcrafted, classic-styled wines are simply awe-inspiring and will have you reclining in contentment as you look out over lush green lawns.
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