A Road Trip Through the Winelands of the Western Cape

Grapes in the Wine Estate in Tulbagh Valley, Western Cape, South Africa
The grapes in the Wine Estate in Tulbagh Valley, Western Cape, South Africa

There’s no denying that the Western Cape is one of South Africa’s most picturesque provinces. Showing off at every turn, with majestic mountains, sun kissed beaches, unique wildlife and uninterrupted landscapes. And, the wine route is no different. Boasting award-winning wines, beautiful scenery and amazing food, it’s an experience like no other. 

From the bustling city of Cape Town to the charming town of Stellenbosch, there are plenty of wine farms to visit and memories to be made. And what better way to make the most of the winelands with a car rental in Cape Town? 

Exploring Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch is one of the main wine-producing regions in South Africa, and famous for it’s beautiful scenery, lush vineyards, and quaint towns – it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular choice for a relaxing getaway.

Start your journey to the winelands directly from the car rental depot at the Cape Town International Airport. Follow the winding roads of Stellenbosch, while enjoying the beautiful scenery and stopping at the many unique local wineries along the way. From amazing wine, charming landscapes and decadent food, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Here are a few favourites: 

  • Delaire Graff Estate: This beautiful estate offers stunning views and award-winning wines.
  • Babylonstoren: This is a popular destination with beautiful gardens, and two on-site restaurants. Booking is essential. 
  • Haute Cabrière: A stunning farm that specialises in sparkling wines and offers cellar tours, tastings and a fine dining restaurant.
  • La Motte: A farm that combines wine-making with art and culture. You can also visit the museum, art gallery, sculpture walk, farm shop, and restaurant.

Le Lude: A farm that produces elegant Méthode Cap Classique wines. You can also enjoy tastings with canapés or high tea at the conservatory or terrace.

2_A Road Trip Through the Winelands of the Western Cape

Exploring Franschhoek

Franschhoek is another popular destination in the Western Cape winelands, known for its quaint streets lined with art galleries and boutiques as well as its award-winning restaurants. It’s also home to some incredible wine estates where you can sample some of South Africa’s finest wines while taking in views over rolling hillsides.

  • La Motte Wine Estate: a beautiful combination of wine-making excellence with art, culture and cuisine, featuring a museum, art gallery, restaurant and shop.
  • Boschendal Manor & Winery: a farm that offers scenic views, historic buildings, organic produce, fine wines and diverse activities, such as hiking, biking and horse riding.
  • Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate: boasts a delightful blend of tradition and innovation, with elegant wines, contemporary cuisine, art exhibitions and luxury accommodation.

If you’re looking for something more active during your stay in Franschhoek then why not take advantage of your car rental and explore some nearby hiking trails? There are plenty to choose from – ranging from easy walks along riverside paths to challenging hikes up steep mountainsides – so whatever your fitness level there’s something suitable for everyone!

Views from Franschhoek Pass
Landscape of plantation fields and mountains from Franschhoek Pass, South Africa

Exploring Paarl

Paarl is another popular destination in the Western Cape winelands – renowned for its spectacular mountain views as well as its abundance of wine estates. It’s also home to some incredible wildlife reserves where you can spot everything from zebras and antelope to lions and elephants!

With your car rental from CPT or George Airport, it’s easy to explore all that Paarl has to offer – whether it be sampling wines at local estates or taking a hike up one of its many trails. And if you’re feeling brave enough then why not try out some extreme sports such as paragliding or abseiling? Whatever activity takes your fancy, Paarl won’t disappoint!

  • Spice Route Destination: a farm that offers various tasting and dining experiences, such as chocolate, beer, gin, biltong and pizza.
  • Fairview Wine and Cheese: a farm that produces award-winning wines and cheeses, with a restaurant, deli and bakery on site.
  • Nederburg Wines: a farm that has a rich history and heritage, with a range of wines to suit different tastes and occasions, as well as a restaurant and picnic area.
Entrance to a wine farm in Paarl.
Entrance to a wine farm in Paarl.

No matter where you go on your road trip through the Western Cape winelands, there will be plenty of sights and experiences waiting for you around every corner! So why not pick up your car rental today from CPT or George Airport and start planning your adventure? Whether it be exploring Stellenbosch’s vineyards or spotting wildlife in Paarl’s reserves – wherever you go – make sure you take advantage of all that this stunning region has to offer!

Explore Cape Town and surrounds by renting a car at Cape Town International Airport. SANI Car Rental is a South African homegrown car rental company. Vehicles available to rent include compact cars, economy cars, premium cars, people carriers and SUVs. SANI Car Rental serves customers throughout South Africa including at all major local and international airport.

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