The Winelands, Curated

South Africa’s winelands offer remarkable depth for travellers who already know their way around a cellar door. Stellenbosch remains the country’s benchmark region, producing structured Cabernet Sauvignon, polished Bordeaux blends, and savoury, fynbos‑tinged Syrah from its granite‑rich slopes. Franschhoek, shaped by its French Huguenot heritage, excels in Méthode Cap Classique, elegant Chardonnay, and distinctive old‑vine Semillon with waxy texture and mineral drive.

The Heart of South African Wine

Taste your way through world‑class Cabernet, Syrah, Chenin Blanc, MCC, and old‑vine Semillon. Wander historic towns, enjoy scenic drives through mountain passes, and experience the region’s unique blend of African, Dutch, and French heritage. It’s a wine journey with real cultural depth.

cape town: scenery, culture and coastal elegance

The Occidental Travel Co. tour includes time in Cape Town for essential highlights — Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula, Bo‑Kaap, and the waterfront. It’s the perfect complement to the winelands: dramatic scenery, vibrant culture, and unforgettable coastal views.

Premium Wine Experiences, Balanced with Local Charm

We visit iconic estates for structured tastings and cellar tours, but we also seek out small‑batch producers, family‑run vineyards, and relaxed countryside restaurants. It’s a richer, more authentic experience than the typical “luxury-only” wine tour — perfect for travellers who appreciate quality without the pretension.

Itinerary

- Private transfer to Stellenbosch Settle into a vineyard‑side lodge
- Relaxed afternoon tasting at a nearby estate (e.g., Jordan or DeMorgenzon)
- Welcome dinner at a farm‑to‑table restaurant (included)
- Guided tasting at Tokara (Cabernet & Bordeaux blends)
- Estate tour and cellar walk at Rust en Vrede
- Afternoon at Kanonkop for Pinotage and heritage reds
- Optional: blending workshop where you create your own Bordeaux blend
- Visit Waterford Estate for their wine‑and‑chocolate pairing
- Old‑vine Chenin tasting at Mullineux & Leeu (if available nearby)
- Evening fireside tasting with a local winemaker (private, informal)
- Cable car up Table Mountain
- Explore the Bo‑Kaap neighbourhood
- Visit Robben Island
- Dinner in Cape Town
- Transfer to Franschhoek
- Tasting at Haute Cabrière (Pinot Noir & Chardonnay)
- Explore the village’s galleries and cafés
- Dinner at a top Franschhoek restaurant
- Méthode Cap Classique tasting at Le Lude
- Visit Boschendal for a heritage tour and garden walk
- Old‑vine Semillon tasting at Boekenhoutskloof
- Optional: picnic lunch on a wine estate lawn
- A relaxed, scenic day using the Franschhoek Wine Tram: Hop‑on tastings at estates like Rickety Bridge, Grande Provence, Eikehof
- Light lunch at a vineyard bistro
- Sunset tasting back at your lodge
- Cooking class with a Cape Malay chef (hands‑on, cultural, delicious)
- Paired lunch at La Petite Ferme
- Free afternoon for spa, hiking, or additional tastings
- Visit a small‑batch garagiste producer for micro‑lot tasting
- Barrel sampling session with a cellar master
- Optional: vineyard e‑bike tour through the valley
- Head to Cape Town’s historic wine region Tastings at Groot Constantia and Klein Constantia (Sauvignon Blanc & Vin de Constance)
- Scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak
- Return to Franschhoek
- Choose your favourite estate for a return visit Long lunch at Delaire Graff overlooking the valley
- Farewell tasting at a boutique producer
- Private transfer back to Cape Town
- Fly home … or continue your adventure

Cost: US$3700

Includes: 5-star twinshare accommodation (single supplement available), luxury coach with driver, guide, unlimited water & soft drinks, activities as listed, Opening & Closing Dinners, meals (where indicated), airport transfers

Excludes: Flights to/from South Africa, insurance, souvenirs, gratuities, other meals, personal items.

Learn More