Helderberg Valley Winelands Day Tour with Private Transfer

Tucked away on the slopes of the Hottentots Holland mountain range is a small pocket of wine estates that are often overlooked. This journey sets out to uncover these hidden gems of the Helderberg, on the fringe of the Stellenbosch Winelands, as your senses are delighted with vast beauty, sensational tastes and fascinating tales of old.  'Helderberg' quite literally means "mountains with a clear view" and on a cloud-free day, you'll enjoy panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the Cape Peninsula and Table Mountain. Set out on an historic yet innovative wine adventure to discover the view from above and taste the fresh flavours of the Helderberg region. From a wine and olive oil pairing at Morgenster winery to Lourensford's wine with decadent chocolate pairing, a summer picnic lunch beneath 300 year old trees at Vergelegen and end with a wine with a view finale at Waterkloof.

1. 1

   Morgenster Wine Farm and Olive Estate

   1 hour

   Savour the rich history and fine wines on offer at what is known as the gateway to the Cape Winelands: the Helderberg - one of the oldest wine growing regions in the country - on a journey to uncover the same beauty that captured the hearts of the Dutch settlers some 300 years ago. Begin with a light and innovative pairing of three of Morgenster’s wines with their award-winning extra-virgin olive oil. While this may be a more widely accepted pairing nowadays, Mongenster was the pioneer of this type of pairing in South Africa in the 1990s. At the time there were only 100 hectares of olive trees used for olive oil in the entire country.. Today, you can reap the benefit as you unpack the flavour notes of one of the world’s best olive oils with balsamic vinegar, olive pastes and olives to compliment the wine.

2. 2

   Lourensford Wine Estate

   1.5 hours

   Now that the wine is freely flowing and your taste buds awoken, travel up ancient oak tree-lined paths, to the decadence of Lourensford Estate. After a saunter through the lush gardens, you’ll be treated to a pairing of fine dark chocolate with some of their best wine offerings: Chardonnay teamed with orange dark chocolate, Merlot with cherry chocolate, Shiraz with hints of chilli and other artisan chocolate flavours. If time allows, check out the coffee roastery and deli. Just follow the aroma of a fresh batch of beans being roasted; the beer brewery at the weekend food market spot.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   2 hours

   Then, prepare to be transported in time through the gardens of Vergelegen with a walk that pays homage to its deep history, with many fascinating tributes throughout the estate. Wander under the “Royal” Oak – planted from the last acorn of King Alfred’s oaks in Oxfordshire; believed to be the oldest oak tree in Africa; and the popular camphor forest, planted in 1700 by Governor van der Stel himself. The residential homestead is marked as a heritage site, and the 18 historic gardens have been restored to its prior glory days. All in all, this magical garden makes for the perfect spot for an optional alfresco picnic lunch beneath the Camphor tree forest or fine dining one of the two estate restaurants. (Lunch is for your own account)

4. 4

   Waterkloof Wines

   1.5 hours

   Then head up the mountain, high in the sky, to witness a touch of modern innovation married with centuries-old tradition for a union that delights the senses. Waterkloof’s unique approach to winemaking is sure to wow your palate as you relax in the sleek tasting room, offering breathtaking views of the valley below through the modern glass promontory. The hands-off approach of their “honest" process produces wines that emphasize restraint, elegance and integrity. Sample six of the estate's organic wines from the Circumstance, Seriously Cool, and Circle of Life ranges paired with an indulgent cheese platter boasting typical local flavours. A perfect well-rounded end to the day. Set course for Cape Town by late afternoon inspired by the beauty, intensity and individuality of this often-overlooked area. - The exact itinerary is subject to change and may, on occasion, run in a different order.

5. 5

   Africa Select Journeys - Hotspots 2c

   Pass by

   - This private tour will run exclusively run for you. The itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to spend more time at the tour’s highlights that interest you the most or swop for alternative options. This is a private tour running exclusively for you or your group. - Do contact us during of after the booking process to let us know if you would prefer any changes to the tour and we can suggest an updated itinerary and cost estimate if there are any additional charges.

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Must be 18 years and older for wine tasting
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Wine tasting or wine pairings are not included for kids under the legal drinking age of 18 years. Meals and drinks for children are for the adult’s account.
• Alternative wine estates may be selected upon request
• Restaurant bookings may be required and paid for in advance

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.