The Cape Wine Route is the longest of its kind in the world, and is set along one of the most beautiful driving areas in the south. Lush vineyards amid fertile farmland, surrounded by towering mountains make this a perfect area to take plenty of holiday photos, while indulging in the warm hospitality and fantastic foods and wines on offer.
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Route 62, heading into the Little Karoo. By Martin_Heigan
Asara Wine Estate and Hotel – Stellenbosch
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| The view from Asara's restaurant. By Asara Wine Estate & Hotel |
This beautiful wine estate, established in 1691, is set within the lush valley of Stellenbosch. They offer not only luxurious stays in their hotel, but also award winning wines which have been perfected over the centuries. Special pride is put into producing their red wines, which make up 65% of their product; they also have a collection of fine vintage wines called vinoteque, as well as white and dessert wines.
Spier – Stellenbosch
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| Petting a sleepy cheetah at Spier. By 126 Club |
Waverley Hills – Tulbagh
Situated in the fertile Tulbagh valley and surrounded by mountains, Waverley Hills estate not only offers top-notch organic wines, but also a beautiful olive grove – keep an eye out for their 2012 Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices award. Here, natural predators such as ducks control pests like snails, so no chemicals are needed, and they also have
an earthworm composter. A cellar tour will reveal their delectable range of wines, as well as their fresh olive produce.
Weltevrede Wine Estate – Bonnievale
For the Jonker family, 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of family wine farming at Weltevrede. While here, indulge in a wine tour and taste some of their beautifully named wine ranges, such as Poet's Prayer, Vanilla Chardonnay and CherryChoc Merlot. Take a tractor tour of the farm, or visit their large underground cellar. For the writers and poets out there, check in to see their Writers Studio which was built during the Second World War –it is filled with over 3000 books for research purposes.
Excelsior Estate – Robertson
The De Wet family-run Excelsior wine estate is situated in the gorgeous Robertson valley – which has the local nickname “valley of vines and roses”. Visitors can taste several of their award-winning wines in the tasting room, which has a gorgeous view over the dam and vineyards – with the Langeberg Mountain range in the background. If you’re up for the challenge, become an honorary De Wet family member, and blend your own variety of wine before bottling, corking and labelling it.
Facts about Route 62
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| A view over one of the picnic areas at Spier. By Sarietha |
Adjacent to the Wine Route, and starting in the Wellington area, is the Route 62 Brandy Route, where you can tour the factories and taste local brews of varied vintages.
There are many wine events throughout the year to showcase this beautiful part of the country. Keep your eye out for events such as the Robertson Wine on the River, the Robertson Slow, and the very popular Wacky Wine Weekend.
About the Author:
Being a lover of travel, wine, and good food, Roseanna McBain found her haven when she joined the Cape Route 62 booking and accommodation website, TravelGround.