Tag: cape town

Guide to the Cape Winelands for tourists

If you’re planning a Cape Town trip or thinking about visiting Cape Town in South Africa, then you don’t want to skip the Cape Winelands. This scenic tourist destination provides unique and breath-taking views of SA’s Western Cape province. It’s also a place where travellers can sample selections of the world’s finest wines and see exactly how they’re produced. An amazing experience for both the old and the young!

Historical tourist attractions like Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and Boulders Beach are great, no doubt about it. However, you haven’t experienced the Western Cape completely until you’ve explored the Winelands and best wine tasting locations in Cape Town. This brief guide provides information to help you do just that.

About the Cape Winelands

The Winelands region in the Western Cape is situated to the north-east of Cape Town, approximately 40 kilometres away from ‘the Mother City’. Offering some of the most majestic scenery in all southern Africa, the area is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. The regional landscapes come together in the form of impressive mountains, lush green vineyards and gable-ended Cape Dutch farmsteads. Truly lovely!

In the Winelands, tourists can tour various wine estates to learn about wine production and taste South Africa’s world-renowned wines. Visitors can also stroll down attractive streets in historical town centres and visit monuments, museums and other attractions. There are outdoor activities such as hiking in most towns. Local restaurants, a few of which offer food and wine pairings, are some of the best in the country.

The Cape Winelands in South Africa cover a land mass of more than 22,000 square kilometres, incredibly (8,495+ square miles). Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, Paarl, Wellington and Tulbagh are the towns which make up the backbone of the wine-producing region. Their wine routes account for hundreds of grape and wine producers, with grape cultivation in the large valleys dating all the way back to the 17th century.

Top wines from the Winelands

Many top South African wines are produced in the Cape and then exported to other countries for sale and consumption. As a matter of fact, South Africa is one of the top 10 wine producing countries in the world. In other words, that favourite red, white or rosé that you love sipping on might be from the Cape Winelands. Moreover, it is possible for wine lovers and connoisseurs to visit the wine land that produces it.

The most celebrated wines from the Winelands, also known as the “Boland” (Afrikaans for “land above”), are Pinotage and Chenin Blanc, the former being a cross between Cinsault and Pinot Noir. Other popular wines from the Winelands include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot. Additionally, the area produces various red and white blends that people commonly purchase and consume.

Different wine routes in the Winelands

The Winelands of the Western Cape have many different wine routes. They are known for offering great wine tour experiences, particularly the larger ones. Stellenbosch, Paarl, Wellington, Franschhoek and Tulbagh are the traditional routes in the Cape Winelands. Then there are wine routes such as Constantia, Durbanville, Darling, Walker Bay and Helderberg, amongst others. A lot of these are an easy and convenient drive from Cape Town.

Most South African vineyards/wine farms can be found near the coast. The mild Mediterranean weather here is ideal for growing grapes, yielding up to 990 millimetres (39 inches) of rainfall yearly. There are currently around 560 wineries and 4 400 primary vineyard producers in the Cape. The Wine of Origin Scheme divides these into the regions of Boberg, Breede River Valley, Cape South Coast, Coastal, Klein Karoo and Olifants River.

Winelands tours in the Western Cape

There are a number of companies that offer private and group tours in the Cape Winelands. Unfortunately, not all are reputable, so it’s advisable to learn about the company you plan to tour through. At Hike Addicts, we offer a full-day Winelands tour and a half-day Winelands tour. Both affordable options provide pick up and drop off to accommodation, wine tastings at amazing wine estates with a certified tour guide and good food.

Full-day tours are suitable for local and international tourists planning to spend a day or more in the Cape. There’s certainly no shortage of accommodation and things to do. Half-day Winelands tours are appropriate if you’re going to be travelling to multiple provinces/cities/countries and will have limited time. The half day wine trip lasts roughly 4.5 hours, whereas full day tours in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek typically take up 8 hours.

More to the Winelands than just wine tasting

While wine tasting is the main reason people tour the Cape Winelands, it’s not the only reason. As mentioned, there are attractions and activities in towns. In Stellenbosch, specifically, visitors can hike, take e-bike tours, go on off-road scooter adventures, zipline in the forest and visit Butterfly World and the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden. It also has a farmers’ market and places to eat, notably a township theatre-restaurant.

In Franschhoek (“French Corner” in Afrikaans), tourists can enjoy chocolate tasting, mountain biking, visits to art galleries and antique stores, spa treatments and much more. This town is well-known for its excellent restaurants and accommodation establishments. Then, of course, in nearby Cape Town, there are full-day city tours and activities such as whale watching, shark cage diving and quad bike and horseback safaris.

Tips for travellers touring the Cape’s Winelands

Start by tasting dry white wines first. Then, move on to red wines, and lastly, sweet wines. Sparkling wines are useful for clearing the palate in between. It’s best not to swallow all the wines; use a spittoon.
There are cellars that don’t accept outside glasses and require that wine tasters purchase one. This can be a good thing, as wine glasses make for nice souvenirs. Ask if there’s a limit to how much you can taste.
Most cellars sell boxes of select vintages that come stylishly packaged. You can give these away to people as gifts! You can also purchase mixed wine cases and have them delivered to wherever you want.

Interested in visiting the Cape Winelands in South Africa for a wine tasting tour? Book now through our website or contact us here for more information.

Tags activities, cape town, cape winelands, hiking, south africa, tours, western cape, wine, wine routes, wine tasting

Constantia wine region information

The Constantia wine region in affluent Constantia is one of South Africa’s most historic and prestigious wine-growing areas. Situated approximately 15 kilometres south of central Cape Town in the Western Cape, it is home to more than 10 active wine farms. Nine of these form part of the Constantia Wine Route. The wine farms extend across Constantia Valley, which lies to the east of the Constantiaberg mountain.

Constantia is famous for its flavourful high-quality wines. Prior to the 20th century, the area was celebrated for its Vin de Constance, a sweet dessert wine from Muscat de Frontignan grapes. Napoleon Bonaparte consumed many litres of it in the years leading up to his death. These days, the world recognises Constantia as a top producer of not only Muscat Blanc dessert wines but also premium Sauvignon Blanc and Bordeaux Blends.

Production of wine aside, the Cape’s Constantia has become a sought-after residential area over the years. The leafy suburb has beautiful family homes, excellent schools and top-notch amenities. It provides extraordinary views and has many adventurous and enjoyable activities suitable for both children and adults. Constantia is big on wine tasting and cuisine (especially fine dining) and tourist accommodation is superb.

Constantia wine region – wine tasting rooms and estates

The “cradle of winemaking in Cape Town”, Constantia, has a long history of wine manufacturing. In fact, the wine estates in this region saw the production of some of South Africa’s very first wines. Their legacy brings to light the admirable passion of the estate founders and personnel and their indisputable ability to create world-class wines that people love. The aromatic wines are delightful, as many have come to discover.

Due to the variety that exists within the wine region of Constantia, there’s a wine to satisfy most palates. The area’s assortment of estates, shops and wine tasting rooms make available various exclusive wine specialties (often paired with food) for visitors to enjoy as they take in splendid vistas. For those who appreciate aged wines, there are vintage tasting rooms. Estates will generally sell wine directly to the public.

Constantia Wine Route estates

Groot Constantia

This is the oldest wine estate in the Constantia wine region. It was established in 1685 by the VOC Governor of the Cape of Good Hope, Simon van der Stel. Groot Constantia is notable for its old-world-charm and Dutch architecture. It has a Cape Dutch Manor House, a wine museum and a cultural history museum, and visitors can relish wine and chocolate tastings. The estate produces award-winning dessert wine, specifically Grand Constance, as well as blends such as Constantia Cabernet Sauvignon and Gouverneurs Reserve Red.

Klein Constantia

Klein Constantia Wine Estate was born from its parent estate, Groot Constantia, and features lovely vineyards and scenery. The estate is set on the upper foothills of the Constantiaberg amidst lush greenery and longstanding trees, bestowing great views of Constantia Valley and False Bay. There’s a bistro on the property that offers a unique wine and food experience. Klein Constantia produces a top-shelf Estate range, an approachable KC variety, Vin de Constance and the premium red blends Anwilka and Petit Frère.

Buitenverwachting

Buitenverwachting is an attractive wine farm on the slopes of the magnificent Constantiaberg facing the east. It is located about 12 kilometres from False Bay. Buitenverwachting is historical, originally forming part of Simon van der Stel’s Constantia Estate. The wine estate has been owned and cherished by several families. The fresh, full-body Sauvignon Blancs and reds that it produces today are the result of this and the area’s unique cool climate. The restaurant and coffee shop at Buitenverwachting serve delicious food, coffee and treats.

Constantia Uitsig

Uitsig Constantia gets its name for its position in Constantia Valley. The wine farm nestles between the east-facing slopes of Constantiaberg and False Bay. Here, glorious vineyards and mountains stretch on for yonks. Due to its position, climate and growing conditions, Constantia Uitsig specialises in producing white wines, particularly Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. On wine tastings, these are paired with an artisanal cheese and charcuterie platters. There is a restaurant, bike park and heritage market in Uitsig.

The other wine estates that make up the Constantia Wine Route are Eagles’ Nest, Constantia Glen, Silvermist Vineyards, Steenberg and Beau Constantia. All of these offer exclusive wine tasting experiences.

Groot Constantia is where it all started!

History of winemaking in Constantia

Winemaking is an age-old practice in Constantia that dates back well over 300 years. Constantia is so large and fertile that it gave birth to multiple wine estates. Simon van de Stel’s influence and actions brought about the foundations of Groot Constantia. During the years that followed, the estate expanded, and today the Constantia wine region is a wine-making wonderland that stimulates the senses of wine lovers worldwide.

Constantia’s wines grew in popularity in the 18th century, thanks to prominent royals, aristocrats and icons. They fell in love with the sweet crisp wine, then called Constantia Wyn. Simon van de Stel manufactured the first Constantia Wyn in the late 1600s. In the 1720s, Johannes Colijn took over, producing it in the cellar at Hoop op Constantia. Later, the wines were produced in the Cloete Cellar. It still stands at Groot Constantia.

In the 1880s, an outbreak of grape phylloxera devastated the Cape’s vineyards. After this event, the production of sweet Constantia wines continued. However, on a very small scale. Then, in 1980, a new wine beginning dawned, with Duggie Jooste purchasing Klein Constantia. He collaborated with winemaker Ross Gower and Professor Chris Orferr to re-create the early Constantia wines made from Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains.

The Cloete Cellar at Groot Constantia.

Things to do in Constantia

Constantia is amongst the Western Cape’s greenest areas, with gorgeous fields sprawling on for kilometres and miles. The vineyards open up to meet the mountainous backdrop, painting the perfect picture of nature on any day. A visit to the naturally gifted area provides a lot of opportunities to explore the beautiful surrounds, go on wine tasting tours through wine farms in Constantia and engage in a range of pleasurable activities.

A selection of bars, music festivals, live shows and eateries exist in and around Constantia. For those looking to wind down and relax, the Constantia wine region has wellness spas and cultural and outdoor activities. Outside activities are always a good option because of the region’s incredible beauty. Whether you are walking, cycling, running, hiking, having a picnic or touring a nature reserve, you’re bound to enjoy yourself.

The wine region of Constantia is a nature lover’s delight and the cellar wine tours are fantastic. A Constantia wine tour takes visitors deep into the world of winemaking. On a guided Constantia Wine Route tour (you will want to book through a reputable tour company), you learn about the history of the region and its estates and wines. You also get to sample the appetising flavours and smells of delectable wines and foods.

There’s nothing like a relaxing wine farm picnic in Constantia.

Constantia Cape Town Accommodation

As mentioned, Constantia offers terrific accommodation. Options include five-star luxury hotels such as The Last Word Constantia, Nova Constantia and Silvermist Mountain Lodge and boutique hotels such as Cellars Hohenort, The Andros and others. In addition, there are numerous guest houses, bed and breakfasts and affordable self-catering accommodations. You won’t struggle to find a place to stay in Constantia.

The Constantia Wine Route is a short distance and drive from central Cape Town. Therefore, visitors to the Constantia wine region will often stay in their accommodation in Cape Town rather than relocating to Constantia. Tourists also have the option of staying in scenic Camps Bay, which is about 25 minutes from Constantia Valley. This area is well known for its upmarket accommodation and stunning beaches.

The Cellars Hohenort Hotel in Constantia, Cape Town.

Getting to Constantia from Cape Town

Because Constantia is near to downtown Cape Town, travelling between the two destinations is quick and convenient. This is one reason why Constantia is a desirable suburb to reside in. Of course, the proximity also suits those planning to stay in temporary accommodations. Scouting for a venue for a special occasion? Constantia won’t disappoint, whether it’s a wedding, an anniversary, a birthday party or a work function.

Getting to Constantia from Cape Town central is quite simple and there are a few different routes that drivers can take. The shortest metropolitan route is via the M3 but travellers can also easily reach their destination using the M63 or the N2. Motorists will typically reach Constantia in under 30 minutes with either route. If there is a lot of traffic on the roads and/or if there aren’t roadworks in progress, then it could take longer.

If you’re interested in visiting the Constantia wine region for a memorable wine tasting tour, you can book through our website here. Alternatively, contact us here if you’d like more information.

Tags cape town, constantia wine region, south africa, wine routes, wine tasting, winemaking history

Table Mountain hike difficulty levels and Table Mountain hiking

Before a Table Mountain hike, one must know and understand the various Table Mountain hiking routes and Table Mountain hike difficulty levels. After all, you don’t want to commit to something that you will not enjoy or cannot do.

Tags cape town, hiking, hiking difficulty levels, hiking routes, india venster, kasteelspoort, platteklip gorge, skeleton gorge, Table Mountain

India Venster safety and difficulty

This blog discusses India Venster safety and difficulty and is written by a qualified guide from Hike Addicts. Hike addicts is a local Cape Town company that specialises in guided hikes up Table Mountain.

Tags cape town, hiking, hiking difficulty, hiking routes, india venster, safety, scrambling, south africa, Table Mountain, weather

The Best hike up Table Mountain

The best hike up Table Mountain is India Venster. At the very least, it is one of the best Table Mountain hikes in Cape Town. The route takes approximately three hours to complete, covering a distance of close to three kilometres. This factors in rest breaks, an average fitness level and India Venster safety.

Tags cape town, hiking, india venster, south africa, Table Mountain

The Constantia Wine Route in Cape Town

No visit to Cape Town is complete without a tour of the Constantia Wine Route, a rich and diverse wine-making destination with many wonderful attractions. The structures on the estates here are grand and historic, the world-class wines are delightful and the astounding landscapes will take your breath away!

Constantia’s Wine Route hums with the sweet serenity of the Western Cape countryside. Its natural unspoilt beauty makes it the perfect escape from any bustling city. Conveniently, though, the wine farm gems of Constantia are just a short drive away from the Cape Town city centre. Less than 20 minutes.

A brief look at Constantia’s history and offerings…

Constantia Wine Route history

Simon van der Stel, VOC Governor of the Cape of Good Hope built a Cape Dutch-style manor house and began to produce wine on the grounds of Groot Constantia. The land was granted to him in 1685. In addition to wine production, Van der Stel used the grounds to grow vegetables and begin cattle farming. After his death in 1712, the estate was divided into three – Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia and Bergvliet – and sold.

The part of the estate with Van der Stel’s manor house was sold to the Cloete family in 1779. Cloete upgraded the mansion. In addition, he planted extensive vineyards and added a wine cellar. In 1885, the estate, which had come to be known for its production of Constantia dessert wine, was sold to the government of the Cape of Good Hope. However, the house had to be restored following a devastating fire in 1925.

After becoming part of the South African Cultural History Museum in 1969 (the old manor house, that is), the Groot Constantia Trust took possession of the estate in 1993. Since then, several other Cape Town estates have joined Groot Constantia to form the lovely Constantia Wine Route. The original manor house now features an exhibition focusing on rural slavery and slave life during the Cape colonial period.

The Groot Constantia Manor House.

Wine tasting and food

Estates that joined Groot Constantia include Klein Constantia, Constantia Uitsig, Buitenverwachting, Steenberg and Constantia Glen. These are some of the best wine farms in Cape Town, each with their signature wines and unique history and tourist attractions in the Constantia Wine Region of the Cape Winelands. Eagles’ Nest, Silvermist Vineyards and Beau Constantia are other estates forming part of the scenic wine route.

As you might expect, wine tasting is a major reason why people visit the Constantia Wine Route in Cape Town. And with so many fertile wine estates to explore, visitors are spoilt for choice. From award-winning dessert wines to full-bodied whites and premium red wine blends, Constantia has it all. Furthermore, one can enjoy delicious food and wine pairings and there are some fantastic restaurants on the estates.

Restaurants that serve mouth-watering foods in Constantia include Jonkershuis Constantia, Green Vine Eatery, Bistro Sixteen82, the Greenhouse at Cellars Hohenort, Tryn, La Colombe and Beyond Restaurant. The Bistro @ Klein Constantia, Chardonnay Deli and Blockhouse Kitchen are other food establishments that are well worth visiting. Eating and drinking isn’t all that there is to do on the Constantia Wine Route, though.

A Beau Constantia wine and food pairing.

Constantia Wine Tour and wines

On a Hike Addicts Constantia Wine Tour, you get to explore five-star wine estates with lush sweeping vineyards and beautiful buildings steeped in history. You’ll learn about the wineries and get personal insights into how winemakers produce wines, as you sample them in the process. These are world-famous wines that you commonly find on public ‘best wine’ lists. As a tour bonus, you get to sample delectable foods.

Groot Constantia produces wine greats such as Constantia Cabernet Sauvignon, Gouverneurs Reserve Red and, of course, Grand Constance. Klein Constantia continues its tradition of producing the naturally sweet Vin de Constance. It also manufactures red blends like Anwilka and Petit Frère and various white and red “Estate” wines. Additionally, they offer an affordable “KC Range” on the Constantia Wine Route.

The Constantia Uitsig estate specialises in the production of the white wine favourites Sémillon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. They also make a selection of blends, namely Natura Vista, Red Horizon and Méthod Cap Classique. Buitenverwachting, which has a unique cool climate, produces rich Sauvignon Blancs and reds. Moreover, it has a “Vintage” range. These are just some of the wines available on a few estates.

Groot Constantia wine range.

Ready to discover the Constantia Wine Route in Cape Town? Book a wine tour of Constantia through our website now. Alternatively, contact us if you have questions about the tour or would like to learn more.

Tags cape town, cape winelands, constantia wine route, south africa, Table Mountain, things to do in constantia, wine tasting, wine tours, winemaking history

The fastest hike up Table Mountain

The fastest hike up Table Mountain in Cape Town is Platteklip Gorge. It takes approximately two hours to hike the Platteklip trail, which covers a distance of two plus kilometres. This Platteklip Gorge hike time or Platteklip Gorge hike duration factors in rest breaks, safety and a moderate fitness level.

While a Platteklip Gorge hike is the quickest hike up Table Mountain, it is not the best hike up Table Mountain, in my opinion. Some folks might disagree, of course. The route is pretty much the least scenic on the mountain. This is because the angle of Platteklip Gorge greatly restricts views. Hikers do still get to enjoy sights of Cape Town and the Atlantic Ocean, though, and the rock formations on the way up are amazing.

The rock formations on the steep Platteklip Gorge, Table Mountain.

Cape Town’s fastest hike up Table Mountain: description

As hikers may expect, the fastest hike up Table Mountain is the most direct route. However, the Platteklip Gorge walking route is not only the quickest but also the steepest hiking route up Table Mountain. You do need to be fit to hike this route. Technically, Platteklip is an easy hiking route, as there isn’t any scrambling or climbing. Still, it can be challenging, especially for hiking beginners, and it is often hot and crowded.

Platteklip gorge route is a stair-like route, better described as rocks and boulders in a stair like form. It is not our favourite route, but it beats the cable car. I generally recommend a more adventurous and exciting Table Mountain hike, one where you enjoy incredible views the entire way up. India Venster or Kasteelspoort are great examples of alternate hiking routes up Table Mountain that effectively do it justice.

Platteklip’s rocky, concrete stairs will give you a workout! Fortunately, you can rest on the way up.

The Platteklip hike and other Table Mountain hiking trails

If you really want the fastest hike up Table Mountain and are terrified of heights, then Platteklip Gorge is your route. Otherwise, consider a Skeleton Gorge hike or a Kasteelspoort hike. The best time to hike Table Mountain via Platteklip Gorge trail is early morning. There is little shelter from the sun on Platteklip Gorge. The route heats up quickly as the sun rises over and around from the eastern slopes of Table Mountain.

Have a safe Platteklip hike. Know what to take with you and how to go about planning a Table Mountain hike. Be aware of your limits, and more importantly, what you are getting yourself into. If you are not fit, then you may wish to opt for the cable car or take one of the many Table Mountain hiking routes that don’t go to the top but instead go around Table Mountain. A Table Mountain guided hike is always a good idea.

The Pipe Track, an easy and scenic Table Mountain hiking route that doesn’t go to the summit.

Want to hike the fastest hike up Table Mountain? Perhaps try the Skeleton Gorge route or Kasteelspoort hiking trail? Check out our Table Mountain hiking tours on our website or contact Hike Addicts here.

Tags cape town, hiking, hiking routes, platteklip gorge, south africa, Table Mountain

Table Mountain hike time info for hikers

In this post, I list popular hike routes on Table Mountain and provide information on the Table Mountain hike time, distances, difficulty levels and more. Hopefully you will find this helpful.

There are many tourists that simply want to tick this adventure off their bucket list and get up Table Mountain. They want the fastest hike up Table Mountain; they want to get it done! And fair enough, any Table Mountain hiking route is better than taking the cable car (hiking fanatic alert).

Tags cape town, hike, hike time, hiking, hiking routes, popular hikes, south africa, Table Mountain

Table Mountain hiking route information

There are various hikes up Table Mountain in Cape Town but how does a hiker choose the right Table Mountain hiking route? Choosing the best Table Mountain hike for you and your group can be a little tricky. This is especially true if you are not a local hiker and/or aren’t familiar with the famous mountain.

Tags cape town, hiking, hiking routes, india venster, kasteelspoort, skeleton gorge, south africa, Table Mountain, twelve apostles

Planning a Table Mountain hike

Ready to hike and conquer Table Mountain? Well, it begins with planning. In fact, planning is the most important part of your hike up Table Mountain in Cape Town. This blog guides you through the most significant hiking factors to document and research, with the goal of helping you plan a hike on the iconic mountain.

Tags cape town, planning a table mountain hike, Table Mountain, table mountain cable car, table mountain hiking routes, table mountain safety, table mountain weather