Full-Day Helderberg Winelands Valley Private Tour from Cape Town

Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product

Stop At: Morgenster Wine Farm and Olive Estate, Vergelegen Avenue, Somerset West 7130 South Africa

Savour the rich history and fine wines on offer at what is known as the gateway to the Cape Winelands: the Helderberg - one of the oldest wine growing regions in the country - on a journey to uncover the same beauty that captured the hearts of the Dutch settlers some 300 years ago.

Begin with a light and innovative pairing of three of Morgenster’s wines with their award-winning extra-virgin olive oil. While this may be a more widely accepted pairing nowadays, Mongenster was the pioneer of this type of pairing in South Africa in the 1990s. At the time there were only 100 hectares of olive trees used for olive oil in the entire country.. Today, you can reap the benefit as you unpack the flavour notes of one of the world’s best olive oils with balsamic vinegar, olive pastes and olives to compliment the wine.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Lourensford Wine Estate, Lourensford Road What3words: ///files.coder.downturn, Somerset West 7129 South Africa

Now that the wine is freely flowing and your taste buds awoken, travel up ancient oak tree-lined paths, to the decadence of Lourensford Estate. After a saunter through the lush gardens, you’ll be treated to a pairing of fine dark chocolate with some of their best wine offerings: Chardonnay teamed with orange dark chocolate, Merlot with cherry chocolate, Shiraz with hints of chilli and other artisan chocolate flavours. If time allows, check out the coffee roastery and deli. Just follow the aroma of a fresh batch of beans being roasted; the Abru beer brewery at the weekend food market spot.

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Stop At: Lourensford Market, Lourensford Wine Estate, Lourensford Rd, Somerset West, Cape Town, 7130, South Africa

Then, prepare to be transported in time through the gardens of Vergelegen with a walk that pays homage to its deep history, with many fascinating tributes throughout the estate. Wander under the “Royal” Oak – planted from the last acorn of King Alfred’s oaks in Oxfordshire; believed to be the oldest oak tree in Africa; and the popular camphor forest, planted in 1700 by Governor van der Stel himself. The residential homestead is marked as a heritage site, and the 18 historic gardens have been restored to its prior glory days. All in all, this magical garden makes for the perfect spot for an optional alfresco picnic lunch beneath the Camphor tree forest or fine dining one of the two estate restaurants. (Lunch is for your own account)

Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Waterkloof Wines, Sir Lowrys Pass Road What3words: ///solving.hang.then, Somerset West 7130 South Africa

Then head up the mountain, high in the sky, to witness a touch of modern innovation married with centuries-old tradition for a union that delights the senses. Waterkloof’s unique approach to winemaking is sure to wow your palate as you relax in the sleek tasting room, offering breathtaking views of the valley below through the modern glass promontory. The hands-off approach of their “honest" process produces wines that emphasize restraint, elegance and integrity. Sample six of the estate's organic wines from the Circumstance, Seriously Cool, and Circle of Life ranges paired with an indulgent cheese platter boasting typical local flavours. A perfect well-rounded end to the day.

Set course for Cape Town by late afternoon inspired by the beauty, intensity and individuality of this often-overlooked area.

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes