What to do in Stellenbosch

It can be tricky to find activities that suit both little and old(er) minds, but dig a little deeper under the surface of the Cape Winelands and you’ll find a variety of activities behind the grape vines. At Spier Wine Estate, the kids will meet rare birds and enjoy a custom-juice tasting (wine tasting for the adults), before heading to the famous Fairview estate to nibble on cheese and meet the resident goats. In the afternoon, there are visits to an artisan chocolatier, glass blowing studio, brewery and distillery to keep everyone entertained – really, there isn’t a moment to get bored!

Pairing cheese with wine has long been a great way of highlighting the flavours and aromas of the grapes and in South Africa’s Cape Winelands, you’re in for a real treat in both taste departments! You’ll visit a variety of wine estates that either make their own cheese or have specially chosen locally-made fromage. Enjoy a memorable day learning the art of a good cheese and wine duo, combining the best of South Africa's wines with everything from home-cured mountain cheese to Brie. And you couldn't ask for a better view! At the end of the day, stroll around the award-winning gardens of Babylonstoren and visit their artisanal deli to take home a taste of South Africa.

The Stellenbosch region has many strings to its bow and this gourmet experience is the chance to discover all of them. You’ll follow the country’s oldest wine route, learning about the history of the area from your seasoned guide as you go; drive through towering mountains and tranquil, vine-filled valleys that will leave you spellbound; sample ostrich carpaccio, nibble on carefully-constructed canapes and taste fresh-from-the-farm olives. That’s without mentioning the wine and there are a number of tastings in store, including an internationally-acclaimed Bordeaux and a unique South African ‘Cape Blend.’ Get a taste for this darling of the Winelands as you're wined and dined by some of the finest estates!

There’s no time to rest this morning for you’ll be driving into the beautiful Elgin highlands to begin your zip lining adventure. If swinging through the trees on 320-metre long slides doesn’t get your heart racing, we don’t know what will! Once back on solid ground, choose one of the cosy, country restaurants in the region for lunch and then hop in the car with or without a guide for a tasting of the cool-climate wines that the area is famous for.

Follow the scent of sun-baked grapes to the Winelands, where you'll enjoy a day of award-winning wines, glorious vistas and epicurean delights. Join your guide on a tour of the finest wine estates in the valley, where you'll sample rich pinot noirs and piquant chardonnays (and anything in between). Try your sommelier skills out with three wine tastings at picturesque estates, while dipping into the history of South African winemaking. You may even become a true connoisseur by the end of it!

In the morning, you’ll meet your four-legged companion and stride out on a guided ride around the vineyards and estates of the Stellenbosh region. With the wind in your hair and the sweet smell of the flora in the air, there’s no better way to experience the beautiful countryside. You'll have a choice of horses and routes to suit your riding level, from fast-paced gallops along mountain passes to lingering walks through the orchards. You'll have worked up an appetite and after lunch in Stellenbosh, you'll have the chance to sample the area's finest wines. Bottoms up! If you're visiting in the warmer months (October to March), book a sunset ride when the Winelands are bathed in gold.