The Constantia Wine Route

The Constantia Valley, only a 25-minute drive from the city centre, is among visitors’ favourite destinations. It’s the oldest wine-producing region in the southern hemisphere and wine lovers – as well as those who are looking to learn from the masters – give it a resounding thumbs-up. More than three centuries of uninterrupted winemaking; and some of the best examples of Cape Dutch architecture means the region is steeped in history. Spoilt for choice, visitors are promised exceptional wine-tasting experiences at all the wine estates in the region.

THE CONSTANTIA WINE VALLEY

Buitenverwachting, apart from its prized wines, offers exceptional dining in an original thatched and white-washed Cape Dutch building. They are known for their informal and relaxed breakfasts, luxurious lunches and dinners in the courtyard and an exceptional range of wine.

Steenberg Farm holds the distinction of being a high-end destination offering a boutique hotel, spa, and golf course. Catharina’s, and Bistro Sixteen82 – so called after the year in which Steenberg was established – are popular eateries on the farm. Of noteworthy interest is the Italian grape variety, quite rare in South Africa, that grows here.

Constantia Uitsig, also originally a part of Simon van der Stel’s famed 1685 wine farm, possesses a history as rich and long as its years. Tantalising meals are served in the estate’s Open Door Restaurant and there’s an exciting Bike Park for cycling enthusiasts.

Groot Constantia has produced legendary wines for more than 300 years. Here, at Jonkershuis Restaurant, surrounded by ancient oak trees and with sweeping views down the valley to False Bay – and at Simon’s Restaurant - you’re assured good food, good wine and a good time.

Klein Constantia also dates from 1685 and, set within ancient trees on the upper foothills of the Constantiaberg with views across False Bay, some consider it one of the world’s most beautiful wine estates. Klein Constantia produces a premium Estate range, an accessible and easy-drinking KC range and, of course, their iconic natural sweet dessert wine, Vin de Constance.

With a modern-day twist on vineyards Beau Constantia, a boutique wine farm on the north-facing slope of Constantia Nek, is as picturesque as it gets. Panoramic views of the Stellenbosch and Helderberg mountain ranges, and over False Bay as far as Hangklip have guests gasping. Their delicious meals at The Chefs Warehouse promise to please.

Family-owned, Silvermist Organic Vineyards overlooks the Longkloof Nature Reserve and the Twelve Apostles mountain range to the north, and to the east the Constantia Valley, False Bay, with the Hottentots Holland Mountains in the distance. The farm falls within the Table Mountain National Park and offers a range of natural fynbos and forests. Here wild animals and birds move freely between the national park and the farm. Their organic range of wine is a local favourite!

Constantia Glen, ideally located below Constantia Nek, acclaimed for their bespoke wines and sweeping panoramic views is one of the true gems of the valley. Having recently added a selection of Flammkuchen to its repertoire of tasting experiences, they continue to grow in popularity. You may like to try the popular Cheese & Charcuterie Platters to accompany the farm’s award-winning wines or kick start your day with breakfast - served until noon.

Eagle’s Nest is a pristine, boutique family owned vineyard that has in recent years gained a striking reputation for both its beauty and award winning wines. The origin of Eagles' Nest, located on the crest of Constantia Nek Pass, can be traced back to 1836 when it was used as a refreshment station between Wynberg in the east, and Hout Bay harbour in the west. Now it is one of the most popular destinations along the Constantia wine route.

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