The wild beauty of South Africa is the ideal backdrop for an outstanding winemaking tradition that dates back to the 17th century. South Africa’s wine country offers travelers the opportunity to explore this beautiful country from a different perspective. Enotourism is a source of pleasure thanks to wineries that cater to discerning travelers who love nature, luxury and exclusivity. More on South African wines.
Two sumptuous hotels have been built with enotourism in mind: Delaire Graff Estate and the Steenberg Hotel & Winery. Both are located in the Cape Winelands region, near Cape Town. These magnificent accommodations have earned approval and praise from the most demanding international specialists for their friendly approach, as well as a particular emphasis on modernity, luxury, art, cuisine and, of course, good wines. Review our curated selection of vintage wines and spirits.
Delaire Graff Estate
Delaire Graff Estate is located in Stellenbosch Valley— in one of South Africa’s major wine regions. The five-star hotel complex is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and gentle rolling hills. David Collins Studio designed a series of exquisite suites for the hotel with private pools and luxurious furnishings—made by local master craftsmen—using hardwoods, linen, and marble. Meanwhile, Keith Kirsten— a brilliant landscape artist— was in charge of embellishing the green areas taking as inspiration Africa’s spectacular flora.
The Delaire Graff Estate has a relaxing spa, gym, cinema, infinity pool and an excellent gastronomic offer at the restaurant Graft Delaire where guests can enjoy fantastic South African and European cuisine. There is also Indochine restaurant, specializing in Asian dishes for the delight of the customers. Also, if a diamond awakens your fancy, the hotel lobby boasts an exclusive Graff boutique, offering the best African diamonds, cut and set by London experts. Nature lovers can stroll through the area’s vineyards and hiking trails. Another exciting sojourn is a tour of the nearby town of Stellenbosch, the heart of Afrikaner culture.
Steenberg Hotel & Winery
Also located in the Cape Winelands–in the Constantia Valley–you’ll find the Steenberg Hotel & Winery, a small and exclusive five-star boutique hotel with impeccable personalized service. This South African gem consists of several historic buildings— declared National Monuments— which have been faithfully restored to bring back their original 17th-century ambiance, but with all the luxury and comfort of the 21st century.
Every room in the hotel has been decorated with antique furnishings, and all have charming views of the vineyards and the 18 holes golf course. The establishment also boasts a private service salon and spa. Additionally, the Steenberg Hotel has two luxurious restaurants: Catharina’s and Bistro 1682 where diners can taste the finest cuisine, paired with outstanding wines from the hotel cellar. At the Steenberg Hotel & Winery guests can enjoy quiet walks at sunset, or travel to nearby Cape Town, the second most populous city in South Africa after Johannesburg, a modern, multicultural and cosmopolitan city that offers a plethora of attractions to visitors. ■
