Wine and hiking

ABOUT THIS TRIP

The wine regions of the Cape are not just a paradise for lovers of fine wines and fine cuisine. Hiking enthusiasts also get their money's worth here. Unique nature reserves with breathtaking views are just waiting to be discovered. And what could be better than getting rid of the calories gained during wine tastings and elegant dinners? Under professional guidance, you will get to know the region's hidden gems and insider tips off the beaten tourist track, both in terms of wineries and scenic highlights.

We are happy to change this tour itinerary or the rental car category according to your individual wishes, and extensions are of course also possible. Please contact us for your personal offer. We recommend starting this trip in the early summer months of August to November or in the late summer months of March to May. A four-wheel drive vehicle is not necessary for this trip, but a vehicle with a higher wheelbase is sometimes helpful.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 3x Stellenbosch
• 2x Franschhoek
• 2x Robertson
• 2x Hermanus
• 4x Constantia

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 13x overnight stay in the Superior category ****
• 13x breakfast
• Rental car class M (Toyota Urban Cruiser SUV Automatic or similar)
• private hiking and wine tour Stellenbosch
• private hiking and wine tour Franschhoek
• Private wine and hiking tour Hermanus
• Guided Lions Head hike
• Access to the airport lounge on the day of departure
• Comprehensive travel documents according to the booked tour itinerary
• Local offices with 24-hour hotline (German/English)
• Travel insurance certificate

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Meals not mentioned
• not mentioned or optional activities
• Flight performance
• Entrance fees and conservation fees not mentioned
• other personal expenses, tips
• personal travel insurance
• Additional costs for rental car (conditions see below)

DAY 1 TO DAY 4 (APPROX. 40 KM):

POSITION BOSCH

You will receive your rental car on arrival at Cape Town Airport or at the agreed station. Stellenbosch is the heart of South African wine production. Countless wine estates are lined up next to each other, and you can get to know South Africa's fine wines at one or two wine tastings. The scenically impressive mountain ranges offer unique hiking opportunities. The second oldest city in the country has a beautiful historic city center with many listed buildings in the Cape Dutch architectural style. Cafés, restaurants and boutiques invite you to stroll and linger. Thanks to the local university, Stellenbosch is a very lively and young city, despite its historical background.

The award-winning Jordan Wine Estate is located northwest of Stellenbosch with a unique view of the surrounding mountain ranges. The Mediterranean climate with maritime influences from the nearby ocean allows excellent Cabernet Sauvignons, Merlots and Syrahs to thrive on the red side and Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs on the white side. But it's not just the wines that are outstanding. The Jordan Restaurant (changing opening hours) and the Cellar Door Bistro (daily 10 am to 3 pm) are among the best in the region (reservations required). Twelve luxurious suites are available for overnight guests. All suites have a bathroom/WC, a TV, air conditioning, a Nespresso machine, a safe, a minibar, a lounge with a fireplace, a terrace with a view and free Wi-Fi. The different room categories are mainly based on size. The Two Bedroom Suites have two bedrooms and two bathrooms. There is also an outdoor pool with sun loungers.

Overnight guests can take part in a wine tasting free of charge and receive a bottle of wine on arrival as well as a voucher that can be used for lunch or dinner at the winery.

JORDAN WINES SUITES (DELUXE SUITE)

3X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 2: STELLENBOSCH

FULL DAY PRIVATE STELLENBOSCH WALK & WINE EXPERIENCE

You will take part in the following two activities during your stay in Stellenbosch:

In the morning, you set off on a guided hike through the unique nature of the wine regions. Through the Eden Forest, part of the Paradyskloof Nature Area, you will walk along indigenous fynbos vegetation on one side and cultivated vineyards on the other, up to some ridges with breathtaking views. Afterwards, there is the option of visiting the Dylan Lewis Schulpture Garden (at an additional cost, by prior arrangement only).

At lunchtime, the journey takes you out into the scenic vineyards of Stellenbosch. You will stop at two hand-picked wine estates to get an overview of the diverse South African wine selection during wine tastings under expert guidance. On request, your guide will recommend a nice restaurant for a lunch stop (lunch optional). You will be dropped off at your accommodation in the afternoon.

Both activities are conducted in English and privately, no other people take part. The activities can also be conducted in German for an additional charge. You will be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation. The hike requires appropriate clothing and footwear and a normal level of fitness. Water, snacks and two wine tastings are included in the price, lunch and other personal expenses are not included.

DAY 3: STELLENBOSCH

HALF DAY JONKERSHOEK NATURE RESERVE HIKE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 80 € PER PERSON

You will be driven to the beautiful Jonkershoek Nature Reserve near Stellenbosch, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering breathtaking views. This 7.2-kilometer guided hike takes place in an ancient rock quarry in Jonkershoek Valley. You will experience the diversity of the native flora and the geology of the region. The circular trail winds its way up the slope, past groups of trees and proteas, to a spot where you can enjoy a beautiful view over Jonkershoek Valley. At times, you will pass through small forests with trees that can be up to 300 years old. One of these shady areas is the ideal place to take a break. After this section, you will reach an imposing rock face where the zigzag descent begins.

The tour language is English, and the hike will be conducted with other participants. Admission fees, water, and a snack pack are included in the price. A good level of fitness, sun protection, weather-appropriate clothing, and sturdy shoes are necessary for this tour. The tour starts and ends in the center of Stellenbosch (travel there independently).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 3: STELLENBOSCH

CLASSIC CAPE CUISINE WALK

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 125 € PER PERSON

You start at 10 a.m. at the Stellenbosch Tourist Info (own arrival) for an extraordinary culinary city tour. You will get to know the historic old town with its many Cape Dutch-style houses. You will also visit the oldest house in the town, which now houses a museum.

Along the way, you will stop again and again to discover the culinary highlights of the Cape Winelands as well as the visual beauty of Stellenbosch. You will taste local tea and the traditional rusks, a type of sweet rusk. You will also take part in a wine tasting in a local wine bar (non-alcoholic alternatives are available). Of course, South African classics such as biltong and droewors (smoked meat and dry sausage) are not to be missed.

For lunch, there is a traditional lunch platter with all kinds of South African specialties, followed by a typical Cape dessert trilogy. The tour concludes with a visit to Stellenbosch's oldest store, the Oom Samie se Winkel general store, which still looks much as it did a hundred years ago. At around 2 pm, you will return to the Tourist Info, where the tour ends.

The tour language is English. A maximum of eight people take part in this tour. The tour covers a distance of around 2 km on foot. All tastings and lunch are included in the price.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 4 TO DAY 6 (APPROX. 50 KM):

FRANSCHHOEK

In contrast to lively Stellenbosch, Franschhoek is a more sedate place. The name Franschhoek means something like "French corner" or "French corner". The town was founded in 1688, when around 200 Huguenots who had emigrated from France settled in the area. The Huguenot Museum and the Huguenot Monument are reminders of Franschhoek's French origins. More than 45 wine estates along the Franschhoek Wine Route produce top-quality wines. Some of them produce in the centuries-old French tradition, while others use completely modern methods. Along the main street you will find many boutiques, cafés and bistros. The town is also famous for its top restaurants, which are on a par with European Michelin-starred cuisine, but are considerably more attractive in terms of price.

The Auberge Clermont Guest House is located on a working wine and olive farm with a great view over the vineyards of Franschhoek. The wines and olive oils are only produced in very small quantities and can only be purchased on site. The town center is about 15 minutes' walk or a few minutes' drive away. There is a pool, a tennis court and a boules court on the grounds. A short walk leads through the vineyards to a picnic area by a small river. The six rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, underfloor heating, a hairdryer, a Nespresso machine, a minibar and free Wi-Fi. The Honeymoon Suite is slightly more spacious than the Deluxe Rooms and has a double shower and bathtub. In addition to the six rooms, there is a self-catering villa with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a lounge area with fireplace, a veranda with barbecue facilities and a private pool. Guests of the villa have breakfast delivered in the morning.

AUBERGE CLERMONT (DELUXE ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 5: FRANSCHHOEK

FULL DAY PRIVATE FRANSCHHOEK WALK & WINE EXPERIENCE

You will take part in the following two activities during your stay in Franschhoek:

In the morning, you will be picked up at your accommodation and head up the Franschhoek Pass to the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. High above the village, you have breathtaking views of the valley and various dams. You will walk the approximately 7 km long Uitkyk Trail, which has an elevation gain of around 360 meters and leads to the most beautiful viewpoints in the reserve. Alternative trails are available for less experienced hikers.

At lunchtime, the journey takes you out into the scenic vineyards of Franschhoek. You will stop at two hand-picked wine estates to gain an overview of the diverse range of wines on offer during wine tastings under expert guidance. On request, your tour guide will recommend a nice restaurant for a lunch stop (lunch optional). You will be dropped off at your accommodation again in the afternoon.

Both activities are English-speaking and privately guided. The tour can also be conducted in German for an additional charge. The hike requires an appropriate level of fitness. The wine tastings are included in the price, meals and other personal expenses are not included. You will need sturdy shoes, appropriate clothing for the weather and sun protection for the hike.

DAY 6 TO DAY 8 (APPROX. 130 KM):

ROBERTSON

Robertson is an up-and-coming wine-growing region in South Africa with many interesting wineries and restaurants. Klipdrift is home to one of South Africa's most important brandy distilleries. In addition to wine growing, fruit and olive plantations as well as dairy and cheese farms play an important role. Strolling through the town's avenues, you can admire the many Victorian houses with their beautiful front gardens, especially in October and November when the numerous jacaranda trees are in glorious purple bloom. The small Drosdy Museum is well worth a visit, and the Dutch Reformed Church in the center is a real eye-catcher. The location on the mighty Breede River at the foot of the imposing Langeberg Mountains is unique. Boat trips are offered on the Viljoensdrift vineyard. Hiking enthusiasts will get their money's worth at the Van Loveren vineyard.

The Fraai Uitzicht 1798 winery is remarkable in three respects. Owner Sandra Papesch's restaurant is undoubtedly one of the best in the wider area. The fantastic four-star guest house is located in a paradisiacal setting in the vineyards. Cellar master Karl-Uwe Papesch has been conjuring up remarkable wines for 15 years. The nine suites and cottages are spread across the spacious grounds and all offer a bathroom/WC, air conditioning (not in the Vintage Cottages), a minibar, a tea/coffee maker and a private entrance with terrace and seating. The Superior Garden Suites can accommodate two people. The Vintage Cottages are located in the historic wine cellar building and can accommodate four people. The Luxury Cottages are very spacious and also offer a lounge area with fireplace and an oversized bathroom. The guest house is set in a large garden overlooking the vineyards and has a pool, an outdoor terrace, a restaurant and free Wi-Fi.

FRAAI UITZICHT (SUPERIOR GARDEN SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 7: ROBERTSON

WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE IN THE ROBERSON VALLEY

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 110 € PER PERSON

At 11 am you will be picked up at your accommodation by your local wine expert. The drive takes you to the scenic Robertson Wine Valley, which is responsible for around 20% of South Africa's total wine production. Depending on the day of the week, time and interest, three to four local wineries will be visited. There you will learn about the different wines of the region under expert guidance. At one winery you can take part in a private cellar tour (Mondays to Fridays only). You can also fill your own bottle of wine. You have the opportunity to have lunch at one of the wineries (optional). You will return to your accommodation between 4 pm and 5 pm.

This is a privately guided tour in English. You will be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation. The wine tasting, the cellar tour (Mondays to Fridays only) and one self-bottled bottle of wine per couple are already included in the price. Lunch and drinks are paid for on the spot.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 8 TO DAY 10 (APPROX. 150 KM):

HERMANUS

The tour continues to the "whale capital" of South Africa, Hermanus. Here you have the best opportunities to watch whales from the coast between June and November. Of course, you can also take a boat trip out to sea to get even closer to the largest mammals on earth. But Hermanus also has a lot to offer outside the whale season in the South African summer. There are excellent beaches, great restaurants and the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, a unique nature reserve with typical fynbos vegetation and many hiking trails. Even winegrowing has now left its insider status here in the Coastal Region. Over 30 wineries have joined together to form various wine routes.

Selkirk House is a personally run upmarket guest house situated on the hillside just below the Fernkloof Nature Reserve in Hermanus. The stunning view of Walker Bay is picturesquely framed by the mountainous landscape inland. The town center is just a few minutes' drive away. The five modern and individually furnished rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a TV, a safe, a tea/coffee station, a minibar and a balcony or veranda. The guest house offers a pool, a garden with sun deck, two guest lounges, a wine cellar and free WLAN.

SELKIRK HOUSE (LUXURY ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 9: HERMANUS

FULL DAY PRIVATE HERMANUS WINE TASTING HIKE

You will be picked up from your accommodation by your guide in the morning and set off on a privately guided wine safari on foot into the beautiful Hemel-En-Aaarde Valley near Hermanus, where you will get to know three of the best wine producers in the Coastal Region. You'll start at La Vierge Winery with world-class Pinot Noirs and a unique view of the valley. The next stop is Bosman Winery, where you will taste excellent red and white wines as well as a glass of MCC (champagne-style sparkling wine). The tour continues through the vineyards and along typical fynbos vegetation to Hamilton Russell Wine Estate. A large selection of excellent Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays awaits you there. You also have the option of having lunch at one of the wine estates. In the afternoon, your guide will drop you off at your accommodation.

The tour is English-speaking and privately guided, no other people take part. The tour can also be conducted in German for an additional charge. Three wine tastings are included in the price, lunch and other expenses are not included. A normal level of fitness is required for this tour. The tour covers about 7 km on partly unpaved paths. Please remember to wear appropriate clothing for the weather, sturdy shoes and sun protection. Depending on the day of the week, alternative wineries may be visited.

DAY 10: HERMANUS

BOAT-BASED WHALE WATCHING

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 110 € PER PERSON

In the South African winter months from June to November, you have the best chance of spotting Southern Right Whales (right whales) and Humpback Whales (humpbacks) in Walker Bay near Hermanus. You can get within 50 meters of these gigantic marine mammals by boat. This is an experience that no one should miss, especially if the whales are not directly on the coast. If you are lucky, you may also spot dolphins, penguins, sharks and seals during the trip.

The trip takes about two hours and starts at the New Harbour in Hermanus (own arrival). The tour is in English and is conducted with additional people. A small refreshment is included in the price. We recommend booking this activity in advance, especially in the popular months of October and November, as places on the boat are limited and may be fully booked on site. If the trip has to be canceled at short notice due to weather conditions, we will refund the price after your trip.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 10 TO DAY 14 (APPROX. 130 KM):

CONSTANTIA

The beautiful green Constantia Valley on the back of Table Mountain is home to the oldest wine estates in South Africa, dating back to 1682. Just a 15-minute drive from the center of Cape Town are world-famous and award-winning wine producers such as Steenberg, Klein Constantia, Groot Constantia, Buitenverwachting, Silvermist Vineyards and Constantia Uitzicht. Another highlight is the unique botanical garden. Constantia is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, yet still centrally located for exploring the highlights of Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula.

The upscale Glen Avon Lodge is located in the heart of Constantia. This boutique hotel is family-run and combines luxury with personal service. The famous Constantia wine estates and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens are just a few minutes' drive away. The V&A Waterfront and the center of Cape Town are about a 25-minute drive away. The 16 rooms have a bathroom/WC, a TV, air conditioning, a tea/coffee maker, a safe, a minibar, a balcony or terrace and free WiFi. The individual room categories differ mainly in terms of size. The boutique hotel offers a restaurant, a garden with pool and a guest lounge.

GLEN AVON LODGE (STANDARD SUITE)

4X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 11: CAPE TOWN

HALF DAY TABLE MOUNTAIN HIKE VIA KASTEELSPOORT

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 110 € PER PERSON

The climb up the famous Table Mountain is considered the supreme discipline of all hikes in the Cape - and yet it is surprisingly easy to do. From Camps Bay, the route takes you up the back of Table Mountain, including spectacular views of the bay, the ocean and Lions Head. The end point of the hike is the upper cable car station after around four hours, from where you have a more than 180° view of Cape Town and its Atlantic suburbs.

The hike is in English and is carried out with other people. You will be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation. Please remember to wear sturdy shoes, appropriate clothing for the weather and sun protection. Drinking water and snacks are included. The cable car ticket for the descent is not included in the price and must be purchased on site. This hike is considered challenging, with a difference in altitude of around 1000 meters. An appropriate level of physical fitness is a basic requirement. The hike may be canceled due to weather conditions, in which case we will refund the price on your return.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 12: CAPE TOWN

FULL DAY PRIVATE CULINARY CAPE EXPERIENCE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 185 € PER PERSON

Experience the Capetonian way of life: you start in the morning on a culinary excursion into the city of Cape Town. The itinerary may vary depending on the day of the week. During the week, you will discover the small and fine temples of indulgence where usually only the locals shop - far away from the usual tourist traps. Enjoy coffee, ice cream, bread, wine or chocolate from small local producers, for example. At the weekend, the famous food markets take place in various locations and are always worth a visit. At lunchtime, head to the oldest wine region in the Cape - Constantia. You stop at a local winery for a delicious lunch (optional). Of course, two wine tastings are not to be missed, where you will get to know the fine wines of the region. You will return to your accommodation in the afternoon.

This is a privately guided tour in English and lasts around eight hours. You will be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation. The tour itinerary can be flexibly adapted to your wishes on site. Snacks and two wine tastings are included in the price. Lunch is paid for on site. This tour can also be conducted in German for an additional charge.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 13: CAPE TOWN

SUNSET HIKE LIONS HEAD

You will take part in an approximately three-hour guided sunset hike up the famous Lions Head. During the ascent, you will be treated to spectacular views of the city, Table Mountain and the Atlantic suburbs. Once at the top, enjoy the 360° view over Cape Town with snacks and a glass of sparkling wine, including a spectacular sunset.

This hike is in English and is carried out with other people. You will be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation. The price includes snacks, drinking water and a glass of sparkling wine. Please remember to wear appropriate clothing for the weather, sturdy shoes, sun protection and torches/headlamps for the descent in the dark. This hike is considered moderate to challenging. The hike may be canceled due to weather conditions, in which case we will refund the price on your return.

DAY 14: CAPE TOWN

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LOUNGE

As an SA Travel customer, you are something very special and enjoy the comfort that otherwise only Business or First Class travelers can enjoy. Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle at the airport on the day of departure and keep your vacation relaxation going for as long as possible.

You will have access to the airport lounge at your international departure airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban. The lounge offers free drinks, snacks, newspapers, TV, WiFi and washing and shower facilities (facilities may vary depending on the lounge). You can use the lounge at the earliest four hours before your departure. Please note that lounge capacity is limited, especially at smaller airports, and access cannot always be guaranteed or there may be waiting times at the entrance.

Please return your rental car at the latest two hours before departure at Cape Town Airport or at the agreed station.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking and are based on the number of participants stated. Errors excepted. Alternative availability, seasonal overlaps or exchange rate fluctuations may lead to price changes. Please request your personal tour offer with your desired travel dates. This tour offer does not include flights.

The child rate applies to one child under the age of 12 staying in their parents' room. One child under the age of two stays free of charge. For children aged 12 and over, the adult rate generally applies. Not all accommodation allows children of all ages.

We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance and travel health insurance to cover the costs of assistance, including repatriation in the event of accident, illness or death. We can provide a corresponding offer on request.

A passport is required to enter the country. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Minors under the age of 18 may need to carry additional documents. We will inform you of the exact requirements before you book. Travelers who have stayed in an area at risk of yellow fever must provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination.

This trip is malaria free.

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please ask for suitable offers.

The organizer of this trip is South Africa Travel GmbH & Co. KG, Buddestraße 9, 33602 Bielefeld, Germany, Tel +49 521 33676880.

Left-hand traffic prevails on the roads of southern Africa.

CAR RENTAL CONDITIONS FROM EUROPCAR

The following services are included in the price: unlimited free mileage, accident/theft insurance without excess (incl. damage to tires, roof, glass, underbody, oil pan, clutch), liability insurance up to 10 million euros, towing costs in the event of an accident, an additional driver, contract fee, local taxes and fees.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid for locally: Gasoline, toll, deposit.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid for locally if required: additional equipment e.g. navigation device, additional driver, young driver surcharge, traffic fines.

You will need a valid credit card issued to the main driver, an international driver's license and a passport to rent the vehicle. Each driver must be at least 21 years old and have held a driver's license for one year. The deposit is paid by credit card and will not be charged if the vehicle is returned with a full tank of fuel.

The local car rental company reserves the right to provide models of equal or higher value. The rental car mentioned is only an example of the confirmed vehicle class. The costs to be paid locally in ZAR are determined by the local car rental company and are subject to change without notice.

This is an excerpt from the car rental conditions of the local car rental company, which you will receive when booking, or in advance if you wish. You will conclude a contract in English for the use of the rental car on site.

APPROXIMATE ADDITIONAL COSTS THAT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Long-haul flights to Southern Africa in Economy Class cost from EUR 900, while prices can be well over EUR 1000 in the high season. Flights in Premium Economy Class are available from 1500 EUR, in Business Class flights cost from 2500 EUR (per person for outward and return flights). All prices are average values depending on the airline and season. The actual prices at a given time depend on the number of bookings and may vary. Early booking is recommended, especially in the high season.

A light lunch costs around EUR 5 (small salad, soup) to EUR 8 (pizza, pasta, burger) per person, a dinner around EUR 9 (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to EUR 11 (steak, fish) to EUR 21 (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer or soft drinks cost around EUR 1.60 per cup or glass. Prices may vary upwards or downwards depending on the region or type of restaurant.

One liter of fuel (gasoline or diesel) costs around EUR 1. Allow around EUR 54 for fuel for this trip. Some roads are subject to tolls. Allow around EUR 4 for tolls for this trip.

Entrance fees to national parks cost between EUR 5 and EUR 25 per person per day, depending on the size and popularity of the park. Entrance fees to museums or other attractions cost between EUR 3 and EUR 20 per person. Children under the age of 12 usually pay half price.