Private Wine Country Tour with a Twist from Cape Town

Head off to the wine-country via the N1 to one of the Cape’s first farming districts – Paarl. The town is set at the foot of the cluster of remarkable granite domes from which it takes its name. Your first stop of the morning is Rhebokskloof, situated in a beautiful valley on the slopes of the majestic Paarl Mountain.

Embark on either a 1,5hr horse-back or quad-biking trail which offer panoramic views of the Wellington and the Drakenstein Mountains and over the estate . Return to enjoy a wine tasting in the tasting room or gardens.

Proceed to the town of Franschhoek, historically dating back to the 17th century when the French Huguenots arrived. Billed as the Gourmet Capital of South Africa, this charming town, in a most picturesque valley, retains a French Huguenot style. Franschhoek complements the artistry of its chefs and winemakers with the breath-taking beauty of its setting. Enjoy a classic cellar tour and wine tasting at Haute Cabriere Estate. Growing only the classic champagne components, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the Pierre Jourdan and Haute Cabriere wines complete the champagne portfolio. Haute Cabriere is synonymous with tradition, authenticity and is famous for entertaining tastings and informative tours. Cabriere produces an excellent range of brandies, white, red and dessert wines. After the tasting take some time to enjoy the fabled culinary skills of the chefs at one of the many award winning restaurants.

After lunch, imbibe the atmosphere of this charming French colonial town by enjoying a stroll along the main road through town, flanked by galleries, boutiques, antique shops, bistro’s & cafés, historical buildings and specialty shops (do not miss the opportunity to visit the Huguenot Chocolate Factory if you have a sweet tooth!).

Depart Franschhoek and travel via the Helshoogte Pass into historic Stellenbosch. Time permitting, enjoy your final tasting of the day at Blaauwklippen Wine Estate where wines are “created in the vineyards and not in the cellar” – ie very little intervention in the cellar when creating wines, in that they use natural yeast from the grapes which has a distinct impact on the taste of the three different wine selections.