Autumn is perfect timing for a visit to the Cape Winelands.
Paarl is the ideal destination for a quick escape from the city. With a wide range of experiences to enjoy, visitors are spoiled for choice.
Babylonstoren is a favourite stop with plenty of activities to entertain the entire family. It has a spectacular fruit and vegetable garden, unique accommodation with great food and wine offerings and a meander through the wine museum is a MUST!
Painted Wolf Wines; Fanglasstic, boutique glass painting studio; Stillman Distillery (home to craft rum and gin) and Soul Barrel Brewing Company ( a highlight for beer lovers) are all part of the many offerings at The Simondium Guild.
Rhebokskloof wine estate has earned its reputation as a family-friendly destination. Book an idyllic picnic overlooking the dam or indulge at the pizzeria on the farm. Just further along is the historical town of Wellington. The vast area offers a wide range of attractions, and it is an artisanal heaven.
Visitors can easily create a self-drive itinerary for a day visit or stretch it to a mid-week or weekend stay. Taste award-winning wines and indulge in seasonal dishes, while discovering the hidden gems. For nature lovers, Rooshoek Farm game drives will show visitors buffalo, antelope, feral pigs and other animals in their natural habitat. As part of the renonsterveld conservancy, it is also a haven for a wide variety of birds and fynbos.
Jacaranda Wine Estate with only 3,5 hectares under vines, is registered as the smallest wine estate in South Africa. Wine lovers can enjoy an intimate wine tasting on the veranda of the beautifully restored Cape Dutch homestead. There are also beautifully renovated farm cottages for overnight stays.
Three generations of Sonnenbergs have grown Diemersfontein wine and country estate from a modest family haven to an internationally recognized wine brand. The latest addition to the estate is Hope Restaurant serving up delicious, hearty fare.
A final pit-stop should include Villamar restaurant and coffee roastery. Described as a place of culinary and coffee perfection, Villamar embraces visitors with the enticing smell of freshly roasted coffee, baked breads, patisserie fresh out of the oven and nobody can resist their perfectly made Gelato!
For more fabulous ideas to explore Paarl & Wellington, visit www.visitwellington.co.za