South African Winelands

Everyone knows that Africa is a premiere destination for travelers who are hoping to see the Big Five and explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. A lesser known fact is that South Africa is becoming more popular as a luxury destination. Wine lovers from all over the world travel to South Africa to tour vineyards and sample wine. This is not a new fad as South Africa has been cultivating grapes and making wine for over 350 years!

When you hear about the South African winelands, this refers to the vast vineyards which are located approximately 45 miles from Cape Town.  Over 97% of the wine produced in South Africa comes from the area. If you are interested in excellent wine, food and culture, the Cape winelands are definitely worth the trip.

A particularly special region you might want to consider visiting is the Franschhoek region. Here you will find a wide selection of reds, whites and sparkling wines. To go with this vast wine selection, there are also many fine restaurants as well. After visiting Franschhoek, you also might want to consider paying a visit to Paarl and Stellenbosch. Paarl is home to a wide selection of wines but is renowned for their Shiraz. Stellenbosch also has some great wine and boasts excellent Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.

It’s possible to visit the Cape winelands all year long, however many tourists elect to visit in the summer months. Visits can be tailored to your needs. A trip to the winelands can be a fun family getaway or a romantic retreat.