WINE ROUTES

WELLINGTON WINE ROUTE

Wellington welcomes you to the heart of the Cape Winelands

Wellington, the cradle of the contemporary South African wine industry, is renowned for being the birthplace and nurturing ground of exceptional wines. The valley’s rich history is a tapestry woven from the threads of human occupation dating back to the early Stone Age, and further shaped by the settlement of Free Burgers and Huguenot refugees.

The valley saw the arrival of the first settlers, predominantly French Huguenots, as early as 1688. Their influence on the region was far-reaching , and they called the valley Limiet (Limit) Valley, a moniker that endured until about 1695. 

More than the hidden gem of the Cape Winelands, this route offers an authentic haven for those who seek the road less travelled. Surrounded by fruit orchards, wine estates, Buchu plantations, olive groves, and home to South Africa’s first indigenous whisky distillery, Wellington offers a diverse tapestry of experiences.

For nature enthusiasts, the historic Bain’s Kloof Pass beckons with unsurpassed vistas, indigenous flora, fauna, and crystal-clear rock pools, providing an idyllic hiking destination. Closer to town, guided wine walks and horse trails through farmland and fynbos offer unique encounters with the natural surroundings. 

The compact wine route in Wellington boasts a rich concentration of beautiful, historic wine farms and estates, covering diverse terrain that stretches all the way from the Berg River to the Swartland wheat fields and the foothills of the Hawequa Mountains. Here, visitors can engage with the winemakers, sip and savour extraordinary wines served in pristine settings, and connect with the genuine and passionate individuals who craft them.

Wellington stands out as a town where the discovery of artisanal produce, scenic routes and game reserves amid the backdrop of “fynbos” and indigenous “Renosterveld” awaits. Visitors are sure to be captivated by the town’s scenic beauty, the warmth of its people, the quality of its award-winning wines and the multitude of other attractions and activities it offers. The commitment to sustainability in wine farming is of paramount importance, with a focus on maintaining the delicate balance between environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability.

Inclusivity, fair labour practices, and community involvement are also integral aspects of Wellington’s social fabric. Local farms and estates are dedicated to ensuring the well-being and livelihoods of their workers and neighbours, fostering a culture that embraces everyone with open arms.

FOOD EXPERIENCES IN THE WELLINGTON WINE ROUTE

In Wellington, the food philosophy is a harmonious blend of culinary excellence and the rich soil that defines the region. Many of the town’s restaurants are situated on wine farms, offering guests the opportunity to savour the perfect union of delicious food and exceptional wines. Whether you choose to dine at a charming country bistro, a cozy eatery in town or amidst the vineyards of a wine farm, one thing remains constant – the commitment to serving the finest dishes.

From gourmet picnics, enjoyed along the river walk at Doolhof to date-night favourites like ‘Vygie Kitchen & Dining Room’ and ‘Mila restaurant’– you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to enchanting ambiance and great, honest food.  All days start beautifully here thanks to the addition of ‘55 Croissants’ to the culinary line-up. Let’s face it – few things compare to a good coffee and a freshly baked croissant and now you need not travel all the way to France to get your fix.

All these foodie experiences allow you to not only relish delicious food but also to forge genuine connections with the local people and characters that make this small town truly special. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Wellington, savouring both the flavours of the land and the warmth of its people.

WINE OF ORIGIN:
Wellington
Blouvlei
Bovlei
Groenberg
Limietberg
Mid-Berg River

WINES WE ARE KNOWN FOR:
Chenin Blanc
Malbec
Pinotage

DISCOVER THE WELLINGTON WINE ROUTE
Five ‘must try’ local experiences:

  1. Get a lay of the land with the ‘Wellington Wine Walk’. Accompanied by local guides, well versed in the history and culture of
    the area, you’ll enjoy a walk through groves, vineyards and farmlands as you stop and taste the wines and local produce from
    the area. Meet the local characters of the valley and hear their interesting stories.
  2. Calling all anthophiles and green fingers! Enjoy a fynbos masterclass with the Cape Town Fynbos Experience, presented by
    South African Fynbos® available every Thursday from 10h00-14h30 in Wellington
  3. Tick off the ultimate bucket-list item as you enjoy a tandem jump with ‘Skydive Two Oceans’, in arguably South Africa’s most
    scenic skydiving location.
  4. Take a walk around the town centre with ‘Wellington Heritage Route’ to learn more about the rich history. Download the
    VoiceMap and get exploring!
  5. Take in the awe-inspiring scenery and ensure you have a takeaway coffee at the ready: buckle up and enjoy Bainskloof Pass
    for a leisurely drive on one of our most scenic roads.

DISCOVER THE WELLINGTON WINE ROUTE
Five ‘must try’ local experiences:

  1. Get a lay of the land with the ‘Wellington Wine Walk’. Accompanied by local guides, well versed in the history and culture of the area, you’ll enjoy a walk through groves, vineyards and farmlands as you stop and taste the wines and local produce from the area. Meet the local characters of the valley and hear their interesting stories.
  2. Calling all anthophiles and green fingers! Enjoy a fynbos masterclass with the Cape Town Fynbos Experience, presented by South African Fynbos® available every Thursday from 10h00-14h30 in Wellington
  3. Tick off the ultimate bucket-list item as you enjoy a tandem jump with ‘Skydive Two Oceans’, in arguably South Africa’s most scenic skydiving location.
  4. Take a walk around the town centre with ‘Wellington Heritage Route’ to learn more about the rich history. Download the VoiceMap and get exploring!
  5. Take in the awe-inspiring scenery and ensure you have a takeaway coffee at the ready: buckle up and enjoy Bainskloof Pass for a leisurely drive on one of our most scenic roads.

THE WELLINGTON WINE ROUTE

THE WELLINGTON WINE ROUTE

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