Great value getaways in the Cape winelands
Welcome, welkom, wamkelekile
From the natural beauty and wonderful wines to world-class restaurants and activities ranging from spa treatments to any outdoor adventure you can possibly think of, the Cape winelands are a holiday destination second to none. And happily not all has been lost to foreign currency! Here are 50 great-value places we'd suggest you stay.
Over the past few years, I have been a judge in the accomodation category of the Best of Wine Tourism Awards, an annual competition organised by the prestigious Great Wine Capitals of the World network (Cape Town is right up there with Bordeaux in France, Florence in Italy, Bilbao in Spain, Porto in Portugal, Mainz in Germany, San Francisco in the US, Christchurch in New Zealand and Mendoza in Argentina, see www.greatwinecapitals.com).
What amazes me every year is how few Cape wine farms enter, given how many of them offer lovely accommodation ranging from self-catering cottages to the sheer decadence of places like this year’s winner – Delaire Graff Estate Lodges & Spa (www.delaire.co.za) – where you have a private lodge host on call 24/7, not to mention the six-star facilities, two on-site restaurants, contemporary art collection and spectacular gardens above above Helshoogte Pass...
It’ll cost you of course – from R8 800 per night for a two-sleeper deluxe lodge (B&B, plus things like daily Stellenbosch transfers, a mini bar, private cellar tour and tasting, guided vineyard walks, evening sparkling wine with canapés...) to R25 000pn for the Owner’s Lodge (sleeping four).
At Grande Provence in Franschhoek, meanwhile, a night of romance in the Owner’s Cottage will set a couple back R13 000 in peak season; if they share the house with four other couples, they’ll pay R38 000pn (B&B plus airport transfers, a three-course dinner, wine tasting and cellar tour, and all estate wines, spirits and soft drinks, www.grandprovence.co.za).
Establishments like these have moved South African wine tourism into a whole new league, and they’re easily on par with top accommodation internationally. But it certainly doesn’t mean that the rest of us can’t enjoy the vineyard lifestyle for a few days. I’m not sure which is more exciting: that traditionally good value wine areas now boast fabulous hotels like The Robertson Small Hotel (R750-R1 300 per person sharing per night, see www.therobertsonsmallhotel.com) or that Franschhoek isn’t only a playground for multi-millionaires.
ON CAPE TOWN’S DOORSTEP: CONSTANTIA
Glen Avon Lodge
No 1 Strawberry Lane, Constantia, is just a stone’s throw away from the valley’s historic farms – and local wines are perfectly complemented at this fine-dining, five-star guesthouse, a member of Good Cooks and their Country Houses
(http://www.goodcooks.co.za).
RATES: Superior room R900pn, superior suite R935pn, deluxe suite R970pn
CONTACT: 021 794 1418, http://www.glenavon.co.za
High Timbers Lodge
Situated above Steenberg, this is Wine of South Africa’s preferred Constantia base for foreign industry guests, from wine buyers to film crews. Owner Oliver Jacobs prides himself on his relationships with
local wine farms. “I can arrange special tastings,” he promises.
RATES: Double room R1 500 in season, including breakfast
CONTACT: 021 713 2126, http://www.hightimberslodge.co.za
Constantia Stables
Voted one of Cape Town’s top five B&B establishments by Britain’s Sunday Independent newspaper, this four-star guesthouse’s heart is a congenial snug of heavy armchairs, low beams, earthred walls and a well-stocked wine bar.
Original stable doors open onto a mass of indigenous plants.
RATES: R550 to R750pps, including breakfast
CONTACT: 021 794 3653,
http://www.constantiastables.co.za
Constantia Palms
Why should wine lovers stay in one of the four designer bedrooms overlooking lush gardens? Because wine is host Gerrie van der Westhuizen’s passion. “I can give you invaluable advice on where to go, taste, enjoy a good meal, buy...”
RATES: Between R470 and R1255pps in season
CONTACT: 021 794 1269,
http://www.constantiapalms.co.za
ON CAPE TOWN’S DOORSTEP: DURBANVILLE
D’Aria Self Catering Cottages
On land first farmed in 1698, along a cycle route meandering through the Durbanville winelands, 12 four-star cottages offer superior comfort along with laundry and catering facilities (or dine at on-site Poplars Restaurant). Wine tours and tastings can be arranged.
RATES: R430 to R700 per cottage (max four guests)
CONTACT: 021 975 5802, http://www.daria.co.za
Welbeloond
Once one of Jan van Riebeeck’s outposts, this boutique, family-run farm at the start of the Durbanville Wine Route offers selfcatering accommodation in three fully equipped Cape Dutch cottages. Tennis and horse-riding for the energetic.
RATES: The two four-sleepers cost R800pn; the two-sleeper R600pn
CONTACT: 021 557 4558, http://www.welbeloond.com
HEADING NORTHWEST: SWARTLAND
Kloovenburg Pastorie
Purchased from the Dutch Reformed Church by the Du Toits in 1977, this landmark property is now one of the Riebeek Valley’s most luxurious accommodation options. Attention to detail extends from the lovingly restored antique furniture to the Egyptian cotton linen.
RATES: Double rooms from R950, bed only
CONTACT: 022 448 1635, http://www.kloovenburg.com
HEADING NORTHWEST: DARLING
Burgherspost Wine Estate
Growing grapes for sister farm Cloof, Burgherspost was one of the first Biodiversity & Wine Initiative champions, so you can expect more than luxury in two self-catering chalets.
RATES: R650pp (includes a game drive, a breakfast basket, two bottles of Cloof wine, a wine tasting and guided cellar tour)
CONTACT: 022 492 2830,
http://www.burgherspost.co.za
HEADING NORTHWEST: CEDERBERG
Sanddrif
Situated in the Cederberg Wilderness Area, boasting the Cape’s highest-lying vineyards, award-winning wine producer Cederberg also offers self-catering chalets, cottages and camping facilities. Swim in the crystal-clear Maalgat pools, wander through The Valley of the Red Gods, then take your time over a wine tasting.
RATES: R600 per night for four people (plus R75 per additional person)
CONTACT: 027 482 2825, http://www.cederbergwine.com
TRADITION AND TOURISTS: STELLENBOSCH
Knorhoek Country Guesthouse
Originally the stables, blacksmith room and coach house, eight en-suite bedrooms combine modern comfort with old fashioned charm. Patio rooms each have a private stoep while attic rooms boast mountain views. Enjoy vineyard walks and poolside lunches at Towerbosch restaurant (Wednesday to Sunday).
RATES: R420 to R500pps, including breakfast
CONTACT: 021 865 2114, http://www.knorhoek.co.za
Laibach Vineyards Lodge
Surrounded by organic vineyards, five luxury apartments boast spacious ensuite bedrooms, small kitchens and private verandas overlooking the dam with breathtaking Table Mountain views. LCD satellite TV and high-speed Internet, or escape on a cellar tour or vineyard walk.
RATES: Double room R900pn, bed only
CONTACT: 021 884 4511, http://www.laibachwines.com
Muratie Wine Farm
Named after renowned artist GP Canitz, who owned Muratie from 1926 until 1958, the Canitz Studio offers intimate and original accommodation for two (think lounge, fireplace and Victorian clawfoot tub) while the Cellar Cottage is for more adventurous travellers (backpacker-style accommodation).
RATES: Canitz Studio R495pps, Cellar Cottage, R295pps, continental breakfast included
CONTACT: 021 865 2330, http://www.muratie.co.za
Lovane Boutique Wine Estate
Personalised farm-style hospitality on a small family-owned estate. Décor is modern and stylish, yet cosy and comfortable, and all rooms have stunning vineyard views – take a walk and see if you can spot the chameleons.
RATES: Vineyard rooms R990 per room, luxury suites R1 320 per room, breakfast included
CONTACT: 021 881 3827, http://www.lovane.co.za
Ken Forrester Wines
What a combination: award-winning wines, a highly acclaimed restaurant (96 Winery Road) and these two Cape Dutch-style cottages. Goose is a charming bedsit on the banks of the dam, ideal for a couple while the Victorian has three spacious bedrooms and two bathrooms.
RATES: The Goose, R750pn, the Victorian R1 500pn (min two nights)
CONTACT: 021 855 2374, http://www.kenforresterwines.com
Alluvia Specialist Winery & Guesthouse
At arguably SA’s most-photographed wine farm, guests experiencing the vineyard lifestyle in five suites or two self-catering houses named after and decorated according to soil types have exclusive access to a golf green and fly-fishing dam.
RATES: R700 to R1280pps, including a picnic breakfast and wine tasting
CONTACT: 021 885 1661, http://www.alluvia.co.za
Momberg Cottage @ Middelvlei
The tranquil vineyard setting alongside a dam makes it impossible to imagine that Stellenbosch is only 4km away – very convenient for exploring the area and experiencing some night life. There’s a fully equipped kitchenette, and don’t miss the boerebraai held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday lunchtime.
RATES: R850 per unit per night
CONTACT: 021 883 2565, http://www.middelvlei.co.za
Remhoogte Wine Estate
Lovely self-catering Zebra Cottage overlooks a 6ha game area, with both the bedroom and lounge (with satellite TV and DVD player) opening onto a covered veranda. Fully fitted kitchen plus braai facilities (wood provided). Wonderful swimming in the dam.
RATES: R800pn (plus R150pp sleeping in the upstairs loft)
CONTACT: 021 889 5005, http://www.remhoogte.co.za
Oakleaf Lodge
Five lovely bedrooms in a farmhouse or a separate private unit on busy Delvera farm, which offers everything from hiking, mountain-biking and wine tasting to art workshops, ceramics, Chrisna’s Olives & Deli, the Little Woolshop & Farm Kitchen and Aspidistra Nursery.
RATES: R270 to R550pps, including breakfast at the Simonsberg Café
CONTACT: 021 884 4353, http://www.oakleaflodge.co.za
Kaapzicht Estate
Nestled among vines, the two-roomed Vineyard Cottage with large veranda and braai sleeps a family of four, while the spacious Garden Cottage has two bedrooms, an open-plan kitchen and lounge, private terrace and pool and sleeps four (includes a free cellar tour and tasting).
RATES: Vineyard cottage R550pn, Garden Cottage R1 000pn
CONTACT: 021 906 1620, http://www.kaapzicht.co.za
Devon Valley Hotel
Delivering on its promise of ‘handmade hospitality’, this four-star hotel on SylvanVale Vineyards won the SA accommodation category in last year’s Best of Wine Tourism Awards. It boasts a colourful history spanning six decades and one of the country’s most comprehensive single-malt whisky collections.
RATES: R500 to R740pps
CONTACT: 021 865 2012, http://www.devonvalleyhotel.com
TRADITION AND TOURISTS: FRANSCHHOEK
Klein Dassenberg
This boutique wine farm near the village offers four self-catering cottages: romantic Stable with its loft bedroom and pretty patio overlooking the dam; wonky old labourer’s cottage Slave; spacious Barn; and Treehouse with the best views. Good-quality fittings, braai facilities and swimming pools.
RATES: From R750 for two to R1000 for four people sharing
CONTACT: 021 876 2107, http://www.kleindassenberg.co.za
La Chataigne
This family-run wine and fruit farm has three lovely, well-appointed cottages within metres of the Franschhoek river (why not catch a trout for dinner?). ‘Chestnut’ sleeps two while ‘Marron’ and ‘Kastanje’ sleep four. All have braai facilities and there’s also a boules court and swimming pool.
RATES: Chestnut R700, Marron and Kastanje R1 100
CONTACT: 021 876 3291,http://www.lachat.co.za
Cape Vue Guest House
Offering amazing value for money, this charming three-star guesthouse (previously known as Cape Vineyard Guest- House) is situated on a vineyard opposite the Huguenot Monument. The five rooms each have en-suite bathrooms, private entrances and access to patios or verandas.
RATES: B&B between R300 and R350pps
CONTACT: 021 876 2312, http://www.cvguesthouse.com
Basse Provence Guesthouse
Cape Dutch comfort in nine spacious manor house rooms or in a completely secluded cottage. Enjoy the views from a sunny garden patio and book a gourmet picnic lunch at neighbouring Rickety Bridge.
RATES: B&B in manor house R700 to R1350 per room, cottage R2 500 for two to four people
CONTACT: 021 876 2994, http://www.basseprovence.co.za
Residence Klein Oliphants Hoek
Franschhoek’s quintessential country house, owned and operated by Italian Renata Gaggio, is offering la dolce vita to South Africans at a remarkably affordable price in eight elegantly decorated en-suite rooms, some with private plunge pool or Jacuzzi. Don’t miss high tea, served daily from 12pm (R90pp).
RATES: R620pps B&B
CONTACT: 021 876 2566, http://www.kleinoliphantshoek.co.za
ROUTE 62: PAARL
The Stables @ Nelson Wine Estate
Twelve lovely rooms, reminiscent of old horse stables, overlook the Chardonnay vineyard. Why not book a cellar tour or a carriage ride with estate owner Alan Nelson? There’s a sparkling pool, plus quad-biking, canoeing, archery, an eagle sanctuary...
RATES: R350pp sharing (breakfast extra)
CONTACT: 021 869 8453, http://www.nelsonscreek.co.za
Oude Denneboom
On this Voor-Paardeberg wine and olive farm, total tranquillity is guaranteed at a four-star, self-catering cottage in the middle of a game reserve. Built in the early 1800s, the cottage now boasts modern amenities plus a private pool.
RATES: week nights R695pn; weekends R895pn (sleeping four adults)
CONTACT: 021 853 4839, http://www.oudedenneboom.co.za
Ridgeback House
Located in north Agter-Paarl, the original farmhouse has been converted into a luxurious four-star guesthouse. Stylishly decorated in neutral colours to maximise views of the rose gardens, vineyards and koppies, the five rooms each have their own character (plus small sitting area and en-suite bathroom).
RATES: From R500pps B&B
CONTACT: 021 869 8988, http://www.ridgebackhouse.co.za
Cathbert Country Inn
On the slopes of the Simonsberg, luxury rooms, suites and a cottage are reached through Vrede en Lust Wine Farm, where Cathbert guests are treated to a free cellar tour and wine and chocolate tasting. The four-course gourmet dinners are highly recommended (R299pp).
RATES: Luxury rooms R785pps (December 2010), suites from R1 040pps, cottage R1 270pps
CONTACT: 021 874 1366, http://www.cathbert.co.za
ROUTE 62: WELLINGTON
Bovlei Valley Retreat
Home to Dunstone Wines, this estate beneath Bainskloof Pass boasts four-star guest suites in beautifully converted stables as well as a five-star self-catering cottage abutting the vineyards and guava orchard.
RATES: R720pps includes breakfast, welcome drinks, afternoon tea, wine tasting and nibbles
CONTACT: 021 864 1504, http://www.bvr.co.za
ROUTE 62: TULBAGH
Cape Dutch Quarter
The jewel of the crown in this portfolio of accommodation in Tulbagh (think gracious gables, beautiful gardens, shady courtyards) is the Country Guest House, built in 1809 and oozing old-style charm with four-star modern comforts. But there are also lovely self-catering and budget options.
RATES: R175 to R500pps
CONTACT: 023 230 1171, http://www.cdq.co.za
Orchards Cooking School and Guest Farm
This recently restored guesthouse in the fruit orchards on Odessa farm offers self-catering accommodation in three spacious en-suite bedrooms. But the highlight is the industrial kitchen where owner John Haddad offers hands-on cooking courses.
RATES: from R1 200pn for six people, plus R100_per additional person
CONTACT: 023 230 0480, http://www.odessafarm.com
ROUTE 62: RAWSONVILLE
Trout Haven
Famous for fly-fishing, Dwarsberg farm has five self-catering cottages. Tant Kappie and Tant Sarie are refurbished 200-year-old cottages; Oom Ed and Oom Tom are charming A-frames; Paul and Rina was intended as a weekend retreat for much-loved relatives.
RATES: R600pn for two, R210pn for each additional adult
CONTACT: 023 349 1919, http://www.trouthaven.co.za
Eensgevonden Vineyard Cottages
The farmstead is the oldest in the Breede Valley (1720s), but accommodation on this idyllic working wine farm is in three fully equipped Cape-style cottages, all bright and airy with braai areas, fynbos gardens, stunning views and birdsong (no TV).
RATES: R285pps (minimum two-night stay), breakfast basket costs extra
CONTACT: 023 349 1490,
http://www.eensgevonden.co.za
ROUTE 62: WORCESTER
Summerhill Guest Farm
A friendly welcome awaits you at this home from home on a grape farm in the Brandwacht Valley, ideally situated for exploration of the Breede River Valley and Route 62. Six fully equipped, charmingly decorated units sleep up to six people, all en suite with air-conditioning.
RATES: R400pps
CONTACT: 023 347 3615, http://www.summerhillfarm.co.za
ROUTE 62: ROBERTSON
Ballinderry, The Robertson Guesthouse
“Come and share our passion for food and wine,” invite owners Luc and Hilde Uyttenhove, whose home-cooked dinners are inspired by their Belgian roots and love of Mediterranean cuisine. B&B is offered in luxury garden suites, airy standard rooms and a separate ‘comfort’ room.
RATES: From R400 to R640pps
CONTACT: 023 626 5365,
http://www.ballinderryguesthouse.com
Rosendal Winery and Wellness Retreat
On a wine farm established in 1805, colonial elegance combines with modern comforts (most notably the spa). There are three farm rooms (children welcome) and eight spa rooms (no children under 15). The elegant restaurant is one of the Breede Valley’s top 10.
RATES: Farm rooms R720pps, spa rooms R795pps
CONTACT: 023 626 1570, http://www.rosendalwinery.com
ROUTE 62: BONNIEVALE
Amanzi Cottages
Neat three-star self-catering accommodation on Shalom, a wine and dairy farm in The Valley of Cheese and Wine. Fully equipped and sleeping six comfortably, each cottage has its own private deck with beautiful mountain and vineyard views.
RATES: from R150pps (six people) to R250pps (two people)
CONTACT: 082 871 9730, http://www.amanzicottages.co.za
ROUTE 62: MONTAGU
Malherbe Guesthouse
This lovingly restored National Monument, built in 1859, offers five en-suite rooms, four with private entrance and patio or veranda. All have been furnished with comfort in mind, either in Cape Dutch or contemporary African style.
RATES: B&B R395 to 460pp in season, no children under 12
CONTACT: 023 614 3617, http://www.malherbe-guesthouse.com
ROUTE 62: KLEIN KAROO
Lentelus
Upmarket but relaxed farm hospitality at family-run Joubert-Tradauw Private Cellar near Barrydale. Pick seasonal fruit, milk a cow, swim in the river, sip wine with a Mediterranean Route 62 platter under the bluest of skies or brightest of stars.
RATES: R425pppn sharing the Orchard Cottage, breakfast included
CONTACT: 028 572 1636, http://www.lentelus.co.za
Boesmanskop Farm Accommodation
On the Kruisrivier road, roughly halfway between Calitzdorp and Oudtshoorn, this small dairy and ostrich farm has two rustic chic guest suites, complete with porcupine quill lampshades and a winebarrel bathtub.
RATES: R240pps room only, or R450pp including breakfast and four-course dinner in the main farmhouse
CONTACT: 044 213 3365,
http://www.boesmanskop.co.za
Red Stone Hills
Also on the Kruisrivier road, six renovated cottages, circa 1880, have spectacular views of the vineyards, river and extraordinary red/orange rock formations. Guests are assured of total solitude in authentic three-star and luxury four-star cottages sleeping up to six. Satellite TV and firewood available.
RATES: R210 to R400pps, room only
CONTACT: 044 213 3783, http://www.redstone.co.za
SEA BREEZES: ELGIN/GREEN MOUNTAIN ECO ROUTE
Wildekrans Country House
Built in 1811 beneath the Houw Hoek Pass, this historic homestead associated with Botrivier wine estate Wildekrans is now also home to owner Barry Gould’s wines. Antique furniture sits comfortably alongside contemporary art, including sculptures in a magical garden.
RATES: B&B from R475pps; self-catering from R330pps; dinner on request
CONTACT: 028 284 9827, http://www.wildekrans.co.za.
Beaumont Wines
The Overberg’s oldest cellar shares space on Compagnes Drift farm with two idyllic self-catering cottages from which to explore the fynbos-covered mountain on foot, horseback or mountain bike, followed by a swim in a dam.
RATES: Peppertree sleeps four max (R850 per cottage in season) while spacious Mill House sleeps six (R950)
CONTACT: 028 284 9194, http://www.beaumont.co.za
SEA BREEZES: WALKER BAY
High Season Farm
A tranquil mountain retreat just beyond Newton Johnson Wines. Four-star selfcatering cottages sleep between two and six, all beautifully appointed, tastefully decorated and fully equipped.
RATES: R900 to R1 200 per unit for four people, R150 per additional person (two-sleeper cottages cost R600 per unit)
CONTACT: 028 314 1507, http://www.highseasonfarm.co.za
Spookfontein
Home to an unbelievable array of birdlife, this wine and olive farm in the Upper Hemel and Aarde Valley boasts views down the valley to the sea. Two comfortable cottages each sleep four in double en-suite bedrooms while the farmhouse sleeps eight.
RATES: from R300pps (min two nights)
CONTACT: 083 358 0330, http://www.capestay.co.za/spookfontein
Glen Oakes
This 300ha farm (closer to Caledon than Hermanus) provides rustic luxury accommodation in Stone Cottage (sleeps eight) and Wood Cabin (sleeps four). Gas oven, fridge and geyser, and romantic candles and lanterns. Pre-order from a huge range of delicious farm produce.
RATES: R350pp for two, R125 per extra person
CONTACT: 028 212 2710, http://www.glenoakes.co.za
Stanford Hills Estate
Three labourers’ cottages on historic wine, flower and olive farm Weltevrede near Stanford have been restored to offer comfort and self-contained convenience. Sylvia and Brunia each sleep four (children and pets welcome); A Touch of Plaas is for romance.
RATES: From R500 per cottage
CONTACT: 028 341 0841, http://www.stanfordhills.co.za
SEA BREEZES: AGULHAS/ELIM
Zoetendal
Draaihoek Guesthouse is a four-bedroom house on this pioneering wine property near Elim, the picturesque village established by Moravian missionaries in 1824. Accommodates eight comfortably, even luxuriously, with panoramic views over the vineyards, Nuwejaars River, Geelkop Nature Reserve and Grootberg mountains.
RATES: R200pps (R600 minimum charge)
CONTACT: 028 482 1717, http://www.zoetendalwines.co.za
