To me, South Africa’s Cape Winelands offer no shortage of romantic experiences, accommodation and activities for couples to enjoy. Honestly, our local wine farms can be some of the most romantic destinations around! In this post, I look at some of the most romantic wine farms near Cape Town.
Whether you are looking for a stunning wedding venue, couples’ getaway, date ideas or fun day trip to enjoy together, these wine farms offer something for all couples to enjoy.
Best of all, they can be enjoyed year-round. So you don’t have to pay any heed to Valentine’s Day pressures or restrict your romantic adventures to February, our famous month of love!
Romantic Wine Estates to Enjoy Year-round near Cape Town
Here, in no particular order, are my pick of the most romantic wine farms near the Mother City:
1) Delaire Graff Estate (Stellenbosch)
As one of the classiest, most beautiful estates in Stellenbosch, Delaire Graff needs no introduction. It is famously loved by both tourists and locals alike.
Best of all, Delaire Graff offers some truly luxurious experiences, cuisine and accommodation ideally suited to couples.
While it is one of the more expensive estates on this list – you really are paying for a once-in-a-lifetime kind of quality. Especially as service excellence is a given at this Stellenbosch estate.
Add to that, one of the most enviable locations in Stellenbosch – and this world-class destination is sure to wow you and your lover in every sensory way.
Romance factor:
World-class accommodation and spa facilities; wine tastings; two stunning restaurants in Delaire Graff Restaurant and Indochine Restaurant; boutique stores; art and beautiful gardens.
Fun couple activities on-site or in the area:
Delaire Graff is one of the most romantic, luxurious wine farms for couples and offers a host of couple-friendly activities on-site.
These include the following:
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- dining at one of its two excellent restaurants (perfect for a romantic lunch or dinner);
- enjoying a relaxing spa treatment (they have a range of spa packages and facilities like pool deck, infinity pool, sauna and steam room);
- booking a romantic stay in the gorgeous lodges or even the owner’s villa;
- sampling their wine at the extremely scenic wine lounge;
- browsing their boutique shops (especially the Graff boutique, which offers beautifully crafted jewels and timepieces);
- admiring the estate art;
- strolling hand-in-hand through their stunning gardens, which offer some truly breathtaking views, settings and artworks.
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Accommodation available on-site:
Yes, the estate offers some quality, high-end accommodation in its range of lodges, as well as the more exclusive Owner’s Villa.
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Website:
Address:
Delaire Graff Estate, Helshoogte Road, Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands, Western Cape, South Africa.
2) Dunstone Country Estate (Wellington)
Dunstone is both a romantic couples’ escape and a beautiful place for brides-to-be or bridal parties to stay before or after their weddings.
This Wellington guesthouse, country estate and winery offers the most tranquil accommodation, fine wine and delicious meals courtesy of the on-site, family-friendly Stone Kitchen.
Romance factor:
The romance factor is undoubtedly their immaculate accommodation, which ranges for dreamy self-catering cottages to Country House guest suites and the fairytale-esque Manor House.
We stayed in the pet-friendly Guava Cottage and it was the most luxurious, romantic getaway from start to finish.
Fun couple activities on-site or in the area:
At Dunstone, you can enjoy peaceful walks through the farm orchards and gardens, which offer stunning, encircling mountain views.
You can also enjoy a tasty meal at The Stone Kitchen or a lovely wine tasting.
In the wider Wellington region, there are some excellent hikes like Welvanpas or other local hikes; the scenic Bainskloof Pass (just confirm it is open first) and plenty of wine farms, restaurants and local attractions to enjoy.
Accommodation available on-site:
Yes, Dunstone offers Country House guest suites, self-catering cottages and the Manor House.
They also have city and beach accommodation offerings too.
Website:
Address:
Dunstone Country Estate, Bovlei Road, Wellington, Cape Winelands, Western Cape, South Africa.
3) Spier Wine Farm (Stellenbosch)
This Stellenbosch stunner is one that is ideal for everyone to visit but I do feel it is one of those wine farms that lends itself especially well to families and couples.
With everything from delightful picnics to Eagle Encounters (a great date idea for visiting couples) to segway tours, wine tastings, a farm shop and eatery, as well as a luxurious hotel and spa, Spier offers everything you could need for a romantic day trip or extended couples’ getaway.
Romance factor:
For me, the biggest romance factor at Spier is its splendid, fun picnic offerings, garden walks and educational Eagle Encounters.
I have visited the estate for other attractions like the Spier Light Art Festival and its food and drink offerings but those remain my standout couple experiences.
Fun couple activities on-site or in the area:
Spier offers plenty for all ages but some of the main on-site attractions include self-guided garden walks, estate art, vineyard segway tours, picnic offerings, farm cafe, Vadas Smokehouse and Bakery and the spa.
Beyond the estate, there are of course plenty of restaurants, local attractions, hikes and wine farms in greater Stellenbosch and surrounds to enjoy.
Accommodation available on-site:
Yes, Spier offers a lovely, villa-style hotel that is family-friendly. For kids, they enjoy access to our Kids Clubhouse, while adults can enjoy using Spier’s fabulous Qhubeka Bicycles to explore the farm.
For some added pampering and relaxation, book a spa treatment.
Website:
Address:
Spier, R310, Baden Powell Drive, Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands, Western Cape, South Africa.
4) Boschendal Wine Estate (Franschhoek)
Boschendal is one of those magical estates that is always a dream for anyone to visit but I do find the farm especially lovely for couples.
Maybe it’s because they are often the place where sweet proposals and stunning weddings take place but either way, this Franschhoek farm is timelessly romantic.
Romance factor:
The whole estate is like something out of a Jane Austen novel – just with the Cape Dutch twist. From the magnificently manicured gardens (including an amazing rose garden) to the classic Cape Dutch architecture, imposing mountains and beautiful, ancient oaks, Boschendal is like a fairytale love story sprung from its pages.
I have always dreamed of a Boschendal wedding but even if you don’t tie the knot here – the picnics, activities, food and drink offerings, scenery and cosy luxury accommodation are sure to seal the deal on a romantic date or stay.
Fun couple activities on-site or in the area:
With everything from gorgeous accommodation to perfect picnics, beautiful gardens, a restaurant and deli cafe, farm shop and butchery and of course, wine tasting, this farm is already an adventure. That is before you factor in their incredible estate experiences like horse riding, the drive-in cinema, night markets, MTB- and running-trails and guided farm tours.
Accommodation available on-site:
Yes, Boschendal offers a range of luxury wine farm accommodation. Choose from the Herbert Baker-designed Cottage 1685 or one of the beautiful Orchards’ cottages. If you are a bigger group, the Mountain Villa (sleeps 12) is also a tempting option.
As a bonus, Trout Cottage is pet-friendly, while kids staying at Boschendal benefit from the Outdoor (Experience) Programme and fun Tree House.
Website:
Address:
Boschendal Wine Estate, Franschhoek, Cape Winelands, Western Cape, South Africa.
5) Quoin Rock Wine Estate (Stellenbosch)
Quoin Rock is one of those stylish, yet incredibly mesmerising estates that feels like an experience with a capital E.
Everything about this revitalised Stellenbosch estate – from its tempting picnics to the gorgeous gardens and Manor House to Gåte Restaurant – oozes sophistication and a touch of mystifying romance sure to take your breath away.
Romance factor:
Aside from the estate itself, which is a truly dreamy destination where class, beauty and architectural prowess come together with magnificent mountain views and tranquil gardens, Gåte Restaurant is one of the most romantic restaurants you will find anywhere.
Admittedly, it is a bit on the pricey side – but it is worth it for fine dining that truly takes you and your lover on a special culinary journey.
Truthfully, this fine dining restaurant remains one of my standout date night experiences and most memorable dining affairs.
Additionally, their al fresco picnics and custom-made pergolas set the mood for a lighthearted, yet delicious lunch date.
Fun couple activities on-site or in the area:
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Wine tastings, fine dining experiences, the new Qbar (serving the finest Knoerhoek Valley wines from Knoerhoek Wine Farm and Quoin Rock) and more make the estate a great experience for couples.
Beyond that, Stellenbosch and its surrounds offer plenty in the way of outdoor activities and fun experiences for all ages.
Accommodation available on-site:
Yes, Quoin Rock offers the grand Manor House, which can sleep 14 guests. It is very much high-end so guests can expect an opulent, luxurious stay fit for royalty.
As a bonus, Quoin Rock is also a spectacular wedding- and function-venue with one of the most stunning settings you will find anywhere.
Website:
Address:
Quoin Rock Wine Estate, Knorhoek Road, Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands, Western Cape, South Africa.
6) Joostenberg (Stellenbosch)
Joostenberg is one of my favourite Stellenbosch wine farms. It is the epitome of a warm, family-owned and run-business that offers organic wines and at the same beautiful property, The Kraal Restaurant.
Under the umbrella of the Joostenberg brand, there is a fresh cut flower business (available for orders), as well as a bistro, deli, Stellies Taproom and events venue at nearby (and equally lovely) Klein Joostenberg.
Romance factor:
The romance factor at Joostenberg, other than amazing organic wines and excellent country fare at The Kraal, is its idyllic setting. This is an echo of the past, as much as it is a gentle nod to the hopeful present and bright future.
Everything from the tree-lined country roads to the beautiful Cape Dutch buildings and outhouses here make a visit to Joostenberg magical. And that is before you even get to the owners and staff who are some of the loveliest, warmest and most efficient people you will find anywhere in the Cape.
Then, of course, The Kraal’s weekend meals (they are only open from Friday – Sunday) are a dream date for couples, including those with kids.
The Kraal offers some of the best food around in a gorgeous, reformed farm setting. It is pure dining bliss and makes for a really special meal with the one you love.
Fun couple activities on-site or in the area:
Aside from wine tastings, weekend dining at The Kraal and strolls around the farm, Joostenberg also sometimes plays host to exciting workshops, wine tastings and guided farm walks.
These are spearheaded by The Kraal team. (I had the pleasure of covering one of their past events and it was incredible!)
Beyond that, a visit to nearby Klein Joostenberg is also a romantic, quaint outing. Especially if you are scouting for wedding venues!
Accommodation available on-site:
No, there is no on-site accommodation at Joostenberg. However, there are plenty of accommodation stays, Airbnb rentals and hotels in and around the region.
Website:
Address:
Joostenberg, Hoopenburg Road, Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands, Western Cape, South Africa.
7) De Meye Vineyards (Stellenbosch)
Another gorgeous, family-owned estate in Stellenbosch is De Meye Vineyards. With the positively stunning Table at De Meye, delicious-looking platters and some lovely wines, this estate would be romantic enough – but honestly, it is one of the most naturally beautiful, timeless farms I have ever been too.
Romance factor:
There’s an air of whimsy here that is hard to shake – everything from the forlorn garden tower to the expansive gardens that abound with vegetables, blooms and vast trees, is magical.
De Meye is like The Secret Garden in the Western Cape. It really is so beautiful and special – and yes, you guessed it: idyllically romantic too!
The food experiences offered by The Table at De Meye further ensure a spectacular winelands experience for two. (Or more, if you want to bring family and friends along.)
Oh and did I mention De Meye also has a lovely old dairy shed (or for smaller functions, the Garden Cottage) that is perfect for hosting weddings, functions and intimate celebrations?
Fun couple activities on-site or in the area:
The Table at De Meye offers country-style, seasonal lunches throughout the year (although they extend their opening hours during summertime). While De Meye Vineyards offers wine tastings and tasty cheese and meat platters for two sharing.
Accommodation available on-site:
No, De Meye Vineyards does not offer on-site accommodation. However, the Stellenbosch region and surrounds has plenty of accommodation options and offerings to suit all budgets.
Website:
Address:
De Meye Vineyards, Muldersvlei Road, corner of Old Paarl Road (R101), Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands, Western Cape, South Africa.
Romance in the Cape Winelands
These are just some of my favourite, most romantic Cape wine farms – but I assure you, there are so many others out there! 
And if you need extra inspiration, here are some other posts that are ideal for couples and romantic adventures.
More Romantic Cape Farms to Enjoy
This post is already quite lengthy but here are a few more romantic wine farms (and experiences) in the Cape Winelands to check out:
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Tokara (Stellenbosch): fine dining restaurant, family restaurant and deli, olive oil- and wine-tastings, wedding venue, estate art and annual open garden event(s).
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Steenberg Farm (Constantia): bistro, Tryn restaurant, hotel accommodation, spa, golf course, wine tastings, wedding venue and more.
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Canto Wines (Durbanville): MCC and macaroon pairings, picnics, wedding venue and wine tastings.
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Villiera Wines (Stellenbosch): game drives and wildlife viewing, nougat and MCC pairing and wine- and MCC-tastings.
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Vergelegen Wine Estate (Somerset West): beautiful gardens, wine tastings, picnics, farm tours, restaurant and cafes and more.
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Hazendal (Stellenbosch): picnics, Russian tea ceremony, wine tastings, golf course, accommodation, wedding venue and more.
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Benguela Cove (Overberg Region): wine tastings, wedding venue, pontoon cruise and estate tours, picnics, art and more.
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Lourensford (Somerset West): market, on-site boutique stores and galleries, wine tastings, Belgian chocolate and wine pairing, wedding venue, outdoor experiences and more.
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