The Cape Winelands
Exploring Cape Town’s wine regions with NAC Helicopters
Cape Town’s wineries have been producing high-quality wines for so long that the Western Cape has become synonymous with high-quality wines, and have accounted for much of South Africa’s wine tourism. What you may not know, however, is how many lesser-known wine regions are actually dotted all around the province and the peninsula.
Well-known line items to a wine tour would include the historic regions of Constantia, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, but here are a few more to add when you’re planning a trip to South Africa.
Paarl
The third-oldest settlement in the country, Paarl’s agricultural (and vinicultural) history spans almost as far as that of the better-known regions around it. Home to the famous Fairview (with its goat tower, magnificent goat cheeses and delicious wines), the Paarl wine route also boasts Val de Vie and numerous smaller wine farms that all benefit from the Paarl Valley’s extraordinarily lush soil and rich terroir.
Durbanville
Just a short flight from Cape Town, the Durbanville wine route is tucked between the area’s hodge-podge of houses and surrounding farmland. Home to farms dating back as the 17th century, Durbanville offers guests fantastic Méthode Cap Classique and Pinotage. Nitida, Meerendal, De Grendel, Altydgedaght and Groot Phesantekraal are some of the area’s most well-known wineries, among others.
Overberg
One of the Cape’s lesser-known jewels is the wine route through the Overberg region, which spans 250km and crosses breathtaking terrain. The route begins with the Elgin Valley Wine Route, a short flight from Cape Town, which boasts 16 wine farms alone. Some of the best wines in South Africa are produced in this valley.
The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley is one of the many stops along the route and is possibly one of the most exquisite wine valleys you’re ever likely to visit anywhere in the world. The name “Hemel-en-Aarde” translates to “Heaven and Earth” and it is suitably peppered with many establishments offering earthly delights. Many of the country’s top award-winning wines can be found in this small valley – along with the Overberg’s best restaurants.
And why not travel there in style? NAC Helicopters Cape Town offers direct private helicopter charters to all of the above wine regions. Contact our concierge or explore the links above for details on which wine farms we offer direct drop-offs to.
