Those who love wine would undoubtedly feel at home in the South African Cape Winelands. Home to some of the most established wine regions outside of Europe—vines were planted over 350 years ago—South Africa’s terroir and climate allows the region to produce a wide range of world-renowned varieties.
Whether or not you consider yourself an oenophile, the Western Cape is a haven for luxury living, made even more so by the spectacular backdrop of mountains and sparkling sea, and the rolling green hills of more than 300 vineyards. The following properties are jewels found in its midst, offering up the opportunity to experience the magic firsthand.
A Historic Wine Estate
Danie Hauptfleisch, Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty
Enjoy the best of the past blended with modern living in a historic Cape Dutch homestead situated on 921 acres, rich with vineyards capable of producing an impressive 10 varieties of wine. Built in 1709, the six-bedroom, two-bathroom estate was updated 10 years ago to embrace a contemporary, country-house feel, with amenities that include a saltwater pool, gourmet barbeque facilities, vast landscaped gardens, and a large veranda for endless valley views. The grounds also feature a wine tasting facility and cellar, naturally.
Hospitality and Farming at its Finest
Danie Hauptfleisch, Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty
There are a few good reasons why this luxury hospitality estate in the Bergriver Valley makes for an exceptional wedding venue: seclusion, stunning mountain vistas, an onsite chapel, an airy reception space with stylish touches, and of course, an abundance of excellent local wine. While larger gatherings are off the books, enjoy the property’s gardens and grounds; with ripe farmland and guest facilities, this unique property offers ample projects for years to come.
An Exceptional Mountainside Residence
Danie Hauptfleisch, Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty
If grandeur is on your list of must-haves, look no further than this six-bedroom Colonial-style estate. Positioning on a vineyard-covered mountain, this home shines elegantly both inside and out—the manicured grounds feature a beautiful pool for relaxation, and the property’s farmland currently hosts plums, grapes, and olives. With its slopeside location, the views of the surrounding region are unparalleled.
Elegant Country Living on a Vineyard Estate
Chris Cilliers & George Cilliers, Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty
Located in Stellenbosch, perhaps the most well-known wine region in South Africa, this secluded country estate in the coveted Devon Valley is the peak of the wine country experience. Seamlessly blending the best of both indoor and outdoor living, views of the Boland mountains and surrounding vineyards are illuminated from the home’s elegant patio. Find serenity alongside the outdoor pool, and end a night with drinks around one of two French château-style fireplaces. With six bedrooms and bathrooms, a guest cottage, and custom finishings, this is wine country living at its finest.
Tuscan Living on a Wine and Olive Farm
Derek Cohen & Brenda Cohen, Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty
If Stellenbosch remains your destination, experience a taste of Italy right in South African wine country in a romantic Tuscan-inspired villa. Rise each morning to picture-perfect views of the mountains in the distance and sunny olive groves and vineyards at every angle. If you’ve dreamt of producing olive oil and wine, this property is the perfect opportunity to do so—in no time, you’ll be uncorking your own Cabernet Sauvignon.
There’s hardly a better-suited region for wine enthusiasts than South Africa’s wine country. These five exquisite properties provide easy access to the excellent local vineyards, not to mention the acclaimed burgeoning culinary scene to match. If your dream is to unwind with a glass (or two) while watching the sun set on a landscape of mountains and verdant hills, perhaps while sipping your homegrown variety, the Winelands is the perfect place.
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