Exquisite Wine Tasting
Sip, swirl, and indulge near Banhoek Lodge! Delve into the world of wine with a plethora of acclaimed vineyards in Stellenbosch & Franschhoek. From elegant estates to boutique wineries, each tasting promises a unique experience.
WALKING &
Wining
Indulge in a world of wine just moments from Banhoek Lodge. With an array of acclaimed vineyards on our doorstep, you’ll embark on a sensory journey through the finest flavours of the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek regions.
From elegant estates to boutique wineries, each tasting promises a unique and unforgettable experience. Discover the artistry behind every sip as you explore the rich tapestry of South African viticulture. Unwind, sip, and savour the essence of the Winelands when you stay at Banhoek Lodge.
Zorgvliet
Tastings at the Zorgvliet Winery, are about a 500m stroll from Banhoek Lodge. The farm’s wine tastings are hosted in the original Zorgvliet manor house, which dates back to 1692, and which has been fastidiously restored to its former glory. The farm also boasts a lovely restaurant and is well known for the indulgent picnic baskets that guests can purchase and enjoy on the farm’s beautiful grounds.
Oldenburg
Set against the captivating backdrop of the Banghoek Valley, Oldenburg Vineyards beckons with its breath-taking setting framed by a majestic mountain amphitheatre. Embracing the iconic Rondekop hill at its core, the vineyards benefit from a unique terroir influenced by this round hill. Located 8 kilometres from Stellenbosch on the road to Franschhoek, Oldenburg is an off-the-beaten-path gem. Here, the confluence of 8 Natural Elements shapes a distinct terroir, enabling the creation of wines that authentically mirror their origin. Beyond The 8 Elements, the vineyard team passionately upholds a philosophy of harmony with nature, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and cultivating Exceptional Wines from an Extraordinary Place.
Thelema Mountain Vineyards
This family owned and managed wine estate, situated in the spectacular Simonsberg Mountain Range, boasts some of the highest elevations in Stellenbosch which makes it an ideal area for premium quality wine grape production. The farm is situated about 3km from Banhoek Lodge and while the walk to Thelema Mountain Vineyards will involve some uphill climbs, the experience is more than worth the effort not only for the scenery but also for the reward of a complimentary wine tasting on arrival. We recommend turning right as you exit Banhoek Lodge’s gate and walking along the country road that meanders through the vineyards as an alternative to the busy Helshoogte Road route. This route is 400m longer but is a far quieter and more pleasant route on foot. Don’t forget to try the Cabernet Sauvignon, the farm’s flagship wine.
Rainbow’s End
Nestled in the picturesque Banhoek Valley, Rainbows End Wine Estate stands as a testament to the artistry of winemaking. Surrounded by lush vineyards and framed by majestic mountains, this boutique estate embodies the essence of South African terroir. Renowned for its commitment to sustainable farming practices, Rainbows End produces exceptional wines that reflect the unique character of the region. Visitors are treated to a sensory journey, from the vineyards to the cellar, culminating in tastings of meticulously crafted wines. With its inviting tasting room and stunning views, Rainbows End Wine Estate invites wine enthusiasts to savour the beauty of the Banhoek Valley while indulging in the rich flavours of their exquisite vintages.
Tokara
Situated 400m above sea level on top of the Helshoogte Road, Tokara offers award-winning wines, an excellent restaurant, a fabulous delicatessen and the added bonus of dramatic views over Stellenbosch and False Bay, which can be enjoyed while you sample their excellent food and wine. This is a great place to stop for a lunch break during the Banhoek Walking and Wining Experience. The farm focuses on Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc and the in-house sommelier will be happy to assist in pairing a bottle of wine with your lunch. To reach Tokara from Banhoek Lodge we recommend turning right as you exit Banhoek Lodge’s gate and walking along the country road that meanders through the vineyards as an alternative to the busy Helshoogte Road route. This route is 400m longer but is a far quieter and more pleasant route on foot.
The Tasting Shed at Bartinney
The Bartinney Wine Farm is less than 2km from Banhoek Lodge and the charming Tasting Shed offers well-priced tastings with panoramic views from their terrace. This is a great spot to enjoy the sunset as the Tasting Shed stays open until late on Friday nights. They also offer an innovative and multi-sensory Wine and Fynbos experience. Tasting charges are waivered for purchases of R1500 or more.
Lanzerac
With roots dating back to 1692, Lanzerac Wine Estate is a historic jewel and a Stellenbosch icon, resonating with old-world charm and rich Cape heritage. Nestled in the Jonkershoek Valley, it offers sweeping views of dramatic mountain ranges, lush vineyards, and oak-shaded gardens. Originally established by Isaac Schrijver, the estate’s first vineyards were planted, and the farm was named Schoongezicht, meaning wonderful view. Evolving over the centuries, Lanzerac is now home to a five-star Country hotel, acclaimed bars, restaurants, a Deli, a remarkable tasting venue, and a chic day spa. The Manor House, a Provincial Heritage Site, underwent transformative changes by influential owner Elizabeth Catherina ‘Kitty’ English in the 1920s, who renamed it Lanzerac and modernized it into one of the Cape’s most advanced wineries. Today, Lanzerac remains synonymous with Stellenbosch’s rich winemaking history and commitment to hospitality, providing visitors with an immersive experience in Boland culture and service excellence.
Haute Cabriere
Nurtured by the von Arnim family, Haute Cabrière is a family-led winery rooted deep in Franschhoek’s wine valley, embracing a legacy of heritage and community. With a commitment to crafting shared memories through quality wines, successive generations explore Burgundian and Champagne varietals, creating pioneering blends and single-varietal wines. Since 1982, the von Arnim family has artfully harnessed the unique terroir of the Franschhoek Valley, celebrating the marriage of sun, soil, and vine. Surrounded by mountains and diverse soils, Franschhoek’s terroir is truly distinctive, reflected in Haute Cabrière’s range of quality wines. Embracing thoughtful simplicity and gentle cellar practices, the winery showcases the terroir’s essence, offering innovative blends and intriguing single varietals for a truly enjoyable experience.
La Motte
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Franschhoek Valley, La Motte stands as a testament to a rich history dating back to 1695 when German immigrant Hans Hendrik Hattingh received the land. Acquired in 1709 by the first French Huguenot owner, Pierre Joubert, the estate derives its name from the Provencal village, La Motte d’Aigues. Dr. Anton Rupert’s visionary acquisition in 1970 marked a turning point, leading to La Motte’s transformation into a global wine producer and premier tourist destination. Today, under the stewardship of the Rupert family and in partnership with the De Rothschild family, La Motte produces wines of exceptional quality on the Fredericksburg farm. With a commitment to environmental stewardship, La Motte prioritizes conservation efforts, including protecting the precious ‘fynbos’ on the Wemmershoek mountains. The vineyards, managed by Senior Farm Manager Jaco Visser, employ advanced practices and technology, showcasing a dedication to biologic production and sustainable viticulture. La Motte’s passionate embrace of terroir has earned it WWF Conservation Championship status, underscoring its commitment to preserving biodiversity in harmony with winemaking excellence.
