A South African summer holiday isn’t just a trip; it’s an invitation to lean into the languid, golden hours of the Southern Hemisphere. For travellers who value experiences that are as refined as they are authentic, the Cape Winelands offer a sensory map of one of the world’s most breathtaking corners.
From the historic, oak-lined avenues of Stellenbosch to the chic boutique estates of Franschhoek, a summer journey through these vineyards is a masterclass in slow travel. If you’re looking to escape the hustle of the CBD for a day (or three), here is how to navigate the ultimate cheese and wine adventure through the Mother City’s backyard.
1. Heritage and Goats at Fairview Farm, Paarl
Few places capture the artisanal soul of the Cape like Fairview. Established in 1693, this working farm has spent centuries perfecting the art of the pairing. It is most famous for its resident goat herd and their iconic “Goat Tower,” but the real magic happens inside the tasting pods.
- The Experience: Fairview is South Africa’s premier producer of speciality cheeses. We recommend the Master Tasting, where local Camembert and Brie are paired with their world-class Shiraz.
- Hercarry Tip: Visit the deli before you leave to stock up on fresh preserves and free-range meats. It’s the perfect spot for a traveller looking for a taste of sustainable, historic luxury.
2. Urban Sophistication at Culture Club Cheese
If your summer itinerary keeps you closer to the city centre, Culture Club Cheese on Bree Street is an absolute must. This isn’t a traditional vineyard; it’s a modern eatery that treats cheese with the reverence most reserved for fine art.
- The Experience: Look for the “Wall of Cheese” and ask about their fermentation lab. They are pioneers in local probiotics, offering everything from artisanal kefir to the most inventive cheese platters in the city.
- Why we love it: It’s the perfect lunch stop for the urban explorer who wants a sophisticated, quirky atmosphere without the hour-long drive.
3. Riverside Romance at Delheim, Stellenbosch
Delheim is an estate with a conscience. This family-owned farm is a leader in local conservation and social responsibility, making every glass of their award-winning Rosé taste just a little bit better.
- The Experience: Their Riverside Picnic is the pinnacle of Cape summer living. Imagine a hand-packed basket, a chilled bottle of wine, and a spot under a centuries-old oak tree beside a trickling stream. They offer excellent vegetarian and Halaal options, ensuring everyone at the table is catered to.
- The Vibe: Elegant, conscientious, and deeply peaceful.
4. Boutique Brilliance at Yonder Hill
Tucked between Stellenbosch and Somerset West, Yonder Hill is a boutique gem for those who prefer intimacy over scale. They produce only a handful of cultivars a year, allowing for a level of bespoke craftsmanship that is rare in larger estates.
- The Experience: Their signature cheese platter features the local “Huguenot” cheese, a hard, nutty variety that pairs beautifully with their full-bodied reds.
- Hercarry Tip: The Olyfberg olives served here are widely considered some of the best in the region. Be sure to book a day in advance; this hidden gem is a favourite for those in the know.
5. Old-World Indulgence at Lanzerac
No tour of the Winelands is complete without a stop at Lanzerac. Known for its old-world Cape Dutch architecture and five-star spa, the estate’s deli offers a more relaxed, “country-chic” way to enjoy the grounds.
- The Experience: This is the place for a romantic charcuterie board and a glass of Pinotage, a variety Lanzerac famously pioneered. The deli is famous for its freshly baked pastries, perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
- The Vibe: Polished and timeless.
Final Thoughts
Cape Town’s summer is a celebration of the good life, where the Atlantic breeze meets the warmth of the valley. Whether you are sipping a crisp Sauvignon Blanc overlooking the mountains or sharing an artisanal board in a hidden courtyard, these spots offer more than just food and drink—they offer a connection to the land and the people who tend it. Pack your favourite linen set, bring your curiosity, and prepare to fall in love with the Mother City one glass at a time.
