There are hundreds of wineries scattered around the outskirts of historic Stellenbosch, many offering tours and tastings of their world-class wines.
From Stellenbosch: Hop-on Hop-off Wine Tour (Photo: Get Your Guide)
Stellenbsoch is probably the best-known town in South Africa’s fabled wine country. Founded by the Dutch in the late 17th century on the banks of the Eerste River, the area is famed for its rich soil and boasts the largest and oldest wine route in the country. Divided into five sub-routes, the route encompasses more than 200 wine and grape producers with their own unique wines, climates and charms. A tour of these wineries and their many tasting options is the best way to get under the skin of this elegant town, but which to choose? We’ve compared five of the best Stellenbosch wine tastings and wine tours departing from both Cape Town and Stellenbosch, taking into consideration value for money, itinerary and customer reviews.
From Stellenbosch: Hop-on Hop-off Wine Tour (Southern Route)
For travellers looking to maximize their time in the Winelands, this hop-on, hop-off winery tour is an excellent option. Travelling by bus along a popular route in southern Stellenbosch, customers can choose which farms they want to visit and how long they want to stay. Stops include the 300-year-old Spier Wine Far, Van Ryn’s Brandy Distillery and Alto Estate, set high on the slopes of the Helderberg mountain. Pickup is available from hotels in Stellenbosch. From $23.48.
From Stellenbosch: 4×4 Wine Tasting Safari
From Stellenbosch: 4×4 Wine Tasting Safari (Photo: Get Your Guide)
This half-day trip is ideal for those looking for a winery tour with a difference. Instead of travelling by minibus or car, customers get to explore the region in an Open Safari Vehicle (OSV). The tour includes visits to three leading wineries: Stark Conde, Rustenberg and Glenelly. Vehicles wind their way across some of the most picturesque scenery around the city for picture-perfect views, including the mountains and lush landscapes of Jonkershoek Valley. Wine tastings aren’t included in the package but are reasonably priced at each winery. From $27.09
From Cape Town: Stellenbosch Winelands Tour and Vineyards
This half-day tour departs from your hotel in Cape Town on a comfortable bus. The package includes trips to two renowned wineries and includes two wine tastings, as well as a wine and cheese pairing. You’ll also get to enjoy a guided walking tour around the town to uncover its fascinating history of winemaking. Prices include transportation from Cape Town, a registered tour guide, wine tastings and cellar tours. From $52.97 per person.
From Stellenbosch: Full Day Afrivista Wine Tours from Stellenbosch
From Stellenbosch: Full Day Afrivista Wine Tours from Stellenbosch (Photo: Get Your Guide)
This highly rated day trip gives travellers the chance to dive deep into the history and culture of winemaking in Stellenbosch. Routes change regularly, so it’s best to call ahead to confirm which wineries you’ll be stopping at but popular stops include: Rustenberg, Backsberg, Lanzerac, Glenelly and Remhoogte. Tour prices include tours and tastings at four different wineries. Each visit lasts around two hours. A scenic lunch is included in the price too. From $67.58 per person.
From Cape Town: Cape Winelands Full-Day Private Tour
Those looking for a more luxurious introduction to South Africa’s famed Winelands will be hard-pressed to find better than this full-day private tour. Trips depart early in the morning in a luxury Mercedes Benz C-Class or Hyundai H1 along the scenic N2 highway. As well as stopping in Stellenbosch, customers will get to explore some of the region’s other famous winemaking towns, including Paarl and Franschoek. The package includes trips to three wineries and a knowledgeable driver-guide. Tastings and lunch are not included. From $139.06 per person