Kick-off your Cape Winelands tour in Stellenbosch, also known as the Eikestad (the City of Oaks in Afrikaans). It is not only the second oldest town in South Africa but also boasts the largest variety and concentration of vineyards, with more than 140 wine farms.
Take a walk along the oak-lined streets and soak in the holiday atmosphere that characterizes this quiet “old world” town. You'll get to see well-preserved examples of Cape Dutch style architecture, antique shops, national monuments including Dorp street. Visit a wine farm and participate in a cellar tour accompanied by a wine and cheese tasting.
The tour proceeds to Paarl, the third oldest South African town and largest town in the Cape Winelands. View magnificently preserved classic Cape Dutch and Victorian buildings and visit Groot Drakenstein Correctional Centre, formerly Victor Verster prison, where the legendary Nelson Mandela spent the final years of his incarceration.
Get a chance to see the bronze statue of Mandela, which now stands outside the prison to commemorate where he made the famous “walk to freedom” in 1990. You'' also get the opportunity to taste wine at one of Paarl’s renowned vineyards.
Drive to Franschhoek (French corner) an old town with a strong French history and influence that dates back to 1688. Now it's known as the “food and wine capital” of South Africa. The town’s close proximity to Cape Town combined with its ideal weather, architectural beauty, the huge variety of culinary offerings and award-winning wines make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Cape Winelands. Take a walk in the town and be part of its rich history while enjoying the many art galleries, antique shops, and charming restaurants that make up this magnificent town. Stop at the Huguenot Memorial before going on a cellar tour at a local wine estate for a wine tasting.
End your Cape Winelands day tour with a scenic drive back to Cape Town!