1 day Winelands Explore of Stellenbosch Franschhoek Paarl Regions

Leave Cape Town behind and head off by luxury minivan to the Stellenbosch wine region – famous for its Mediterranean climate and fertile soils that help to produce millions of litres of wine each year. With your expert guide, hop back in your minivan and continue your journey northwest to the Paarl wine region, home to leading wine producers like Fairview. Stop at the Fairview Wine Estate, trying out several of their famed white wines and cheeses. As this is a private tour, your itinerary for the day is flexible and you can chop and change as you please. So, take it slow and be sure to meander along the way, staying a little longer if you please or even popping in at quaint looking stops along the way. Our suggestion is an early start at the cheese haven of Fairview for a master tasting of wine with cheese and olive oil that will open both your mind and palate to tastes that you didn't think were possible.

On the journey towards the quaint town of Franschhoek, stopover at Plaisir de Merle, nestled at the foot of Simonsberg Mountain. Founded by Charles Marais in 1693, the estate's history is steeped in winemaking tradition and French heritage. The manicured lawns, ancient oak trees, and panoramic vistas create a picturesque setting for wine enthusiasts. Step into the tasting room, housed in a charming 1823 barn, and indulge in some of the estate's finest wines while enjoying breathtaking views of the valley. Enhance your tasting experience with wine and confectionary pairings, including artisanal nougat or chocolate truffles. Plaisir Wine Estate's serene atmosphere and historic charm make it a memorable destination for wine lovers. Explore the estate's rich heritage and stunning landscapes as you sip on exquisite wines and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply seeking a tranquil escape, you'll love it here.

Lunch takes place in the gourmet capital of South Africa – Franschhoek – roughly 5 miles (8 km) away. Your private guide will point out the best sidewalk cafes and restaurants, and then leave you to enjoy lunch at your own expense. South Africa’s epicurean capital; Franschhoek, with its multitude of eateries is a must-do for gourmands and on weekends the local farmer’s market beckons with colourful stalls, tasty aromas and live music. You’ll have time to soak up the history of the French Huguenots who arrived in the Seventeenth Century, maybe catch an impromptu church choir performance in the street, shop for knick-knacks and bric-a-brac along the main street or savour a charcuterie plate and tasty local creations.

Your last stop of the day is a small Stellenbosch wine estate called Muratie, much loved by locals, with bags of charm. Its traditional cellars are typified by ramshackle walls and worn paintings -- adding to its rustic charm. Sample the estate’s fortified sweet port-style wine and locally produced chocolate (or similar*)– a winning combination! If you are not a fan of sweet wines the Muratie's classic white or red tasting is available as an alternative too. Relax on the journey back to Cape Town, where you’ll arrive in the early evening. - The exact itinerary is subject to change and may, on occasion, run in a different order. *Muratie's chocolate wine pairing experience will be discontinued by April 2024, and will be replaced with a similar value of wine tasting experience. - This private tour will run exclusively run for you. The itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to spend more time at the tour’s highlights that interest you the most or swop for alternative options.