Bucket list experience:
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
The picturesque Constantia Valley is a compact wine route; home to some of the oldest wine farms in the Cape. Ten wineries are open for tastings, ranging from boutique cellars to grand estates.
Situated just 20 minutes’ drive from the city, it’s a convenient option for those lacking the time to visit Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. The valley’s ocean-facing location, cooled in the summer by steady sea breezes, results in vibrant white wines reminiscent of Bordeaux, alongside structured and elegant red wines. The valley is also increasingly becoming a culinary hotpot in the city.
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Destination Guide >Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Meaning ‘beyond expectation’, with its gracious Cape Dutch architecture, there’s a real sense of history here – part of Simon van der Stel’s original Constantia Estate. Known for its white wines, including good Sauvignon Blanc and Gewurtztraminer. Yet its flagship is the Christine, a red blend described as a ‘cool-climate benchmark’.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Constantia’s growing culinary clout is on full display here, with chef Ivor Jones’ small-plate menu offering some of the city’s most inspired, and affordable, fine dining.
Best for ages: 18+ | £50
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Focused on producing shiraz and other terroir-driven wines including a delightful viognier, this family-owned boutique winery just below Constantia Nek has picked up significant ‘best red wine’ awards for its shiraz despite being a relative newcomer in the Constantia region.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
The estate’s beautifully restored homestead is one of the finest examples of Cape Dutch architecture in the region. Good for a family outing, this historic icon has views to False Bay, vast lawns where kids can romp, a choice of dining venues and fine red wines for tasting.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Constantia is a 20-minute drive from the city centre along the M3 motorway. Self-drive is easy and you can take your time and stop for a gourmet lunch en route or head to the beach afterwards. Plan and book where to stop for lunch, then aim to visit two wineries in the morning, and one after lunch. You don’t have to book to visit the wineries, but check ahead for opening times, cellar tours and wine sales. Guided tours have the big advantage of avoiding the need to (drink) drive.
The Constantia Wine Tour are the experts and offer several different itineraries. Alternatively, for those on a budget, the City Sightseeing hop-on, hop-off bus (Blue route) stops at both Eagle’s Nest and Groot Constantia. Alight for a quick wine tasting at either, before continuing on. See more tour recommendations below.
Winter is a cosy and charming time to visit, with fireside tastings and dramatic scenery, while summer is all about al fresco sipping and picnic fare. Spring (Oct-Nov) is the most photogenic, with the vineyards in new leaf. The wine is superb all year round!
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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[4.9 miles]
This elegant country hotel set on a working wine farm is a quietly luxurious base in the Constantia valley, from which to explore the city.
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Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[6.1 miles]
A great value boutique hotel set amid expansive gardens in one of the city’s leafy suburbs, in the shadow of Table Mountain.
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Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[6.9 miles]
A luxurious lodge retreat, set just yards from the Atlantic Ocean, on the shores of the Table Mountain National Park.
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Cape Town , Western Cape, South Africa[8.8 miles]
A luxurious boutique hotel close to glamorous Camps Bay beach, boasting contemporary sea-view suites.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Western Cape, South Africa
Vibrant, multicultural city with dramatic scenery, adrenaline adventure galore, Africa’s best art’s scene and golden beaches and outstanding gastronomy.
