It’s hard to decide which of the Western Cape’s wine regions are more spectacular during spring. Blossoms are starting to colour the bare branches of Franschhoek’s fruit trees, the vines of Stellenbosch are just starting to show signs of bright green life and everything seems so alive. The yellow canola fields of Bot River, however, make this region a solid contender for the most breathtaking of all.

Book your ticket on the Cape Explorer – Cape Winelands Tour to enjoy a fully guided (in English) day excursion to the picturesque Cape Winelands, in a luxury air-conditioned coach. Spend the day exploring the Franschhoek and Stellenbosch winelands, and even stop for an iconic postcard view of Table Mountain from Bloubergstrand. This day tour to the Cape Winelands – which includes a wine and cheese tasting, a cellar tour in Franschhoek and a wine tasting at a Stellenbosch wine farm – is a must-do for visitors and locals alike.

Preparations for one of the world’s most prominent adventure races coming to South Africa’s Namaqua West Coast have moved into overdrive following the event’s official launch in the village of Vanrhynsdorp this week. The epic challenge to take place in May next year puts global attention on a region known for its magnificent wilderness and incomparable hospitality when competitors line up for the thrilling start. 

Perfectly pitched amidst the widespread fynbos, sandy dunes and limestone rock – all a pebbles pelt from the wild Walker Bay Coastline – lies Grootbos Nature Reserve and its season of secrets.

A place so pure and so pristine it awakens your spirit and speaks to your soul.

Here you will find 2,500 hectares of resplendent and ever-evolving indigenous vegetation and endless coastline; and it is this natural display that surrounds the unobtrusive, glass-walled five-star forest retreat that sets an invisible boundary between nature and man, consummately synergising the two.

The South African wine industry, like the country itself, has lived through political turmoil and a fair amount of negativity with regards to its history. However, through radical transformation and a number of innovative projects, this perception is gradually changing as the industry is remade from within. By means of continued dialogue with all role players, authentic transformation and a commitment to grassroots development, the modern South African wine industry is taking its rightful place on the world wine tourism stage, to the benefit of all.

I was first introduced to Spier by my mother when I was younger, although she had never been on the farm, it was her favourite winery.  We took a trip to Cape Town and drove through Stellenbosch and she pointed it out to me: ‘Spier! That’s my favourite wine brand.”, I fondly remember her saying to me. It’s crazy how the universe works, who knew that about 10 years later I would be reintroduced to the brand at a welcome dinner that was hosted on the Spier farm during my #Stellenblog experience.

We live with over-stimulation. In the city we face the constant buzz of traffic, taxis hooting at potential passengers, hawkers advertising their goods on the street corners, billboards and flashing ads on every building, the hammering of nearby construction, and music leaking out of sidewalk restaurants.

Winter is the best time for locals to visit the Western Cape. It’s the time when most of the tourists have fled in search of warmer weather and when our prime hotels and destinations introduce some very tempting specials, making it a bit more accessible for those of us earning in Rands.

I love the way that food can bring people together: when everyone is gathering around in the kitchen as you chop, stir, taste and season; when the rooms fill up with the comforting smells of bubbling stew and freshly baked desserts; and when everyone comes together at the table, clicking glasses and piling comfort food onto plates; when everyone is stuffed and lazy but still reaching into the pot for those last bits and pieces.

The South African Wine and Spirit Board has recently announced the approval of a new wine region, under the inclusive name Wine of Origin: Cape Town. The existing wards of Constantia, Durbanville, Philadelphia and Hout Bay will join forces under the Wine of Origin Cape Town banner, allowing visitors to experience these wines under one banner.

Winter might have been a long time coming to the winelands, but now the days have become shorter, if not colder, and our thoughts turn to cosy weekend breakaways. Our many wine routes offer a variety of indulgent experiences, from high end luxury spa packages, to a simple cottage stay with good friends, a roaring fire and a glass of wine.

In the month of May, our thoughts turn to family as we celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of the month. #VisitWinelands has been sharing wonderful Mother’s Day ideas and venues with you on social media, but of course the whole family also wants to enjoy the fun and explore the Winelands. Where can you take the family, including toddlers, on a day trip to the Winelands? We came up with a list for you, so pack the kids in the car and start exploring. There’s so much more than just wine waiting for you.