Vergelegen Wine Estate in Somerset West, declared a provincial heritage site in 2019, offers an authentic Cape experience in one remarkable destination. It’s rich in centuries of history, breathtaking nature, award-winning wines and delicious food – a place to discover the multiple layers that make the winelands so special.
Glorious gardens
Set against a dramatic backdrop of the Helderberg and Hottentots Holland mountains, the estate offers an extraordinary landscape of fynbos, vineyards and views stretching to False Bay.
Within the extensive gardens, view the final flush of winter-flowering pink, white and red blooms in Africa’s only International Camellia Garden of Excellence, and experience the vibrant colours and heady fragrances of the Rose Garden. The walled Octagonal Garden is one of Vergelegen’s signature sights: Seasonal plantings of old-world blooms such as foxgloves, delphiniums, Dutch iris and salvia border the walkway to the magnificent Cape Dutch homestead.
The oldest oak in Africa, an ancient yellowwood, and five magnificent camphor trees in front of the homestead are enduring examples of Vergelegen’s remarkable heritage trees. Building on this legacy, Vergelegen plants at least 1,000 trees every year.
The homestead and library ‒ a wine cellar built in 1816 and converted in 1920 ‒ showcase treasured furniture, antiques, books and ceramics, against a backdrop of artworks from Iziko Museums.
Relaxed dining
Stables Restaurant reopens in November with a fresh, elegant ambiance created by noted interior designer Dominic Touwen. Be among the first to discover the new menu of seasonal, contemporary dishes.
The nearby, much-loved children’s play area has been refreshed and reimagined, including a snack spot selling treats for children and adults.
The Rose Terrace Tea Room is located beside the glorious rose garden. Satisfy cravings with an ever-changing range of cakes, or delicious savouries such as pies and quiches.
Experience an elegant picnic in Vergelegen’s camphor tree forest, with beautifully set tables and comfortable seating providing a distinctive outdoor dining experience from November to April.
The Creamery serves handmade ice creams, waffles, barista-style coffee, old-fashioned sweets and soft drinks. It’s the perfect place to rest and recharge while exploring the estate.
Sip and savour
Winemaker Luke O’Cuinneagain and his team produce wines that express a sense of place, with freshness, elegance and balance. Sample the ranges in the wine tasting room, or book a Stroll and Sip experience ‒ a guided walk through historic areas with curated tastings.
Insider tip: Vergelegen’s stunning Florence Rosé is perfect for warmer, balmier days.
More to explore
- Heritage and garden tour: Enjoy the gardens and historic buildings with an expert, enthusiastic guide.
- Cellar tour: View the vineyards and multiple-level, gravity-flow cellar firsthand.
- Fauna and flora eco tour: Explore Vergelegen’s private nature reserve on a guided eco tour in an open-top safari vehicle, learning about its rich biodiversity, indigenous fynbos, wildlife and conservation initiatives.
Book at the wine tasting centre.
Visitor information
Address Lourensford Road, Somerset West. Open daily from 08h30 to 17h00, last entry 16h00. Entrance fee R30 per adult, R10 for pensioners and scholars. Free entry for pensioners on Mondays.
Tel +27 21 847 2111 | E-mail info@vergelegen.co.za | Restaurant bookings via Dineplan. Website https://vergelegen.co.za/