Just a mere 30 minutes from the bustle of Cape Town is the peace, tranquility, culture and winelands of Stellenbosch, South Africa. As a university town and South African Winelands gateway, this pristine, almost Disneyesque town will capture your heart. Stroll the streets any time of day or night and take in the sheer beauty and atmosphere that this town offers.
Settle in at the Evergreen Manor & Spa, a 5-Star Guest House.
This conveniently located luxury guest house offers all the amenities and charm of the area in a traditionally decorated compound, including three buildings, two swimming pools and plenty of garden space to call your own for the duration of your stay.
This is a true country manor, with digital connectivity and easy walking access to the town center. Breakfast included a variety of healthy and cooked to order items to set you off on a full day of touring.
We were introduced to the town by Juliana, a vibrant, knowledgeable tour guide from Stellenbosch on Foot, who led us on a 90-minute architectural exploration of the “Village of the Oaks” bordered by the water furrows of the Mill Stream that comes flowing down from the mountains to Stellenbosch below.
The distinctive rounded arches of the Cape Dutch Architecture with its thatched roofs were noteworthy, and the stories of the founders and inhabitants of this three-century old town were captivating.
Dining and wine tasting are a major part of the allure of this university town that welcomes over 35,000 students each year.
Our first night of dining found us at one of the most easily walkable town restaurants, Post and Pepper, conceived, owned and operated by Jesse van Dyk as a family-owned business.
This cozy, stylishly comfortable space serves some of the most thoughtful, refined, creative food in town at affordable prices.
The chef’s nod to an Asian palate is evident but does not dominate in the dishes offered on her 3 course menu options. The waitstaff and general manager are at the ready to ensure a warm welcome and an unforgettable evening of dining pleasure.
Just 10 minutes by car or ride share service will find you in the heart of the winelands with endless opportunities for viticultural exploration. Some of the highlights include the Winemakers’ Lunch at Rust en Vrede Wine Estate.
Seated in an idyllic vineyard setting, your two-course lunch selection of either an exceptional beef or salmon platter is accompanied by the perfect wine pairing. Noted for their cabernets, taste their reserve which is among the list of the top 100 wines of the world. This estate offers tours and tastings that showcase their commitment to excellent wine production.
Just 10 minutes further up is Uva Mira Mountain Vineyards, which is located high up the slope with commanding views of both oceans. They are known for their chardonnay and cabernet franc production.
Enjoy their elegant, refined selections with a locally sourced charcuterie platter as you take in the views of False Bay, Table Bay, Table Mountain and the surrounding sweep of this stellar wine region.
Dinner this evening was at the acclaimed restaurant Eike by Bertus Basson, a 36-seat gem nestled in a historic building on Dorp Street. Chefs Bertus and Daniel invite you to experience and enjoy South Africa’s culinary heritage.
Each of the 5 courses pays homage to the rich traditions that bind this country together. Each dish is a masterpiece of presentation and flair with an attached story to tell. The optional wine pairings are spot on in thoughtfully enhancing the preparation.
Another sun kissed day in Stellenbosch took us to Delair Graff Estates. The breathtaking views vie with the architecture, art, impeccable service and signature wines to make this an outstanding place to lunch at leisure.
Our selections included Prawn & Avocado -Radish, Sorghum, Horseradish, and Amasi Dressing.
Our premium wine tasting at Oldenburg Vineyards was graciously hosted by winemaker Nic van Aarde. This was the quintessential icing on our Stellenbosch wine tour.
Planted on a monumental geographic amphitheater, the vineyards create a unique terroir that influences the taste profile making these varietals some of the most prestigious and highly regarded of the area. Because of the limited quantities available, advanced booking is required and worth the effort.
Before you leave this piece of paradise, indulge in a spa experience at Lanzerac Wine Estate. Their dedicated spa and wellness facility is surrounded by mountains and set in the middle of vineyards. Besides a memorable massage, we enjoyed world class amenities including a fitness center and indoor heated pool.
The spa offers a full range of treatments conducted by highly trained therapists using top quality international and local products to ensure that your experience will cap off a stellar stay in Stellenbosch. www.lanzerac.co.za
For assistance in curating your stellar Stellenbosch experience contact Visit Stellenbosch.
