In case you havenβt heard the big news… I am in love! I have fallen completely head over heels for South African wines.
South Africa is truly one of the most stunning countries I have ever visited and its wine regions are second to none. While there are a countless number of ways this beautiful, diverse country will sweep you off your feet.
Here’s why I think South Africa may by the world’s best wine region!
Itβs a Place of Indulgence
You can get some serious bang for your buck in South Africa. Unlike in wine regions of France, Italy, or California, you can seriously indulge in South Africa without breaking the bank.
Go out for 10-course tasting menus and polish off a bottle of wine with your travel mates. Itβll hurt your waistline much more than your wallet!
Boutique Accommodations Abound
Speaking of luxury, South Africa is the place to go all out from morning till night. After eating your meal fit for a queen, put your feet up in a luxe hotel room. And forget about cookie-cutter resorts!
I am talking about ΓΌber lavish boutique hotels that are unlike anything you have ever seen. You can stay in South Africa for a fraction of the price of accommodations in the United States or Europe.
I got to experience one of a kind rooms at Manna Bay Boutique Guest House in Cape Town and a luxurious stay at the Makeja House in Stellenbosch!
Itβs So Unpretentious
While there is a clear absence of arrogance here, the attention to detail is obvious at every single hotel and restaurant. Most of the wineries are family-owned farms. While most wineries and vineyards are known to have an air of sophistication and class, the South African winelands offer a comfortable and understated elegance.
The Winelands are Expansive
South Africa has 60 different wine regions, which span over a whopping 247,100 acres. You can spend weeks exploring the countryside or just take a quick trip from the city. The renowned Stellenbosch region is just 30 miles from Cape Town.
You can also taste test the wonders of Franschhoek, which is less than an hourβs drive away.
Read More: The Best Wineries in South Africa’s Cape Winelands
South African Food Is Amazing
Drop all of your preconceptions about African food. In South Africa, you will find a major emphasis on local, family businesses and natural, organic eating.
Sustainable seafood is a big thing in the coastal regions and in the Winelands youβll find the nationβs best chefs. Enjoy farm-to-table dining in Joostenberg Bistro & Deli or sample the locally-sourced, organic ingredients foraged from artisanal growers at Waterkloof Wines.
Itβs Fun for All Ages
South Africa isnβt just about wine sipping. It truly is a place for all ages. The town of Stellenbosch is one of the best known wine regions and is also one of the biggest university towns in South Africa.
So, while most people wouldn’t relate a wine destination to pumping nightlife, that’s not the case in Stellenbosch. There are countless bars and clubs to attract visitors that are looking for more to do after a day of wine tasting.
Much of the wine region is also home to incredible cycling routes and hiking. You can visit local museums or go on a family road trip around the Cape Peninsula Road as well!
Every region is multifaceted and thereβs truly something for everyone.
Unique Approaches to Wine Tastings
Cupcakes and wine, anyone? How about a salt and wine pairing? Go beyond simple wine and cheese tastingsβSouth Africa is full of fresh thinkers and it reflects in everything that the locals do. Especially with unique pairing menus like the salt and wine pairing at Fleur du Cap and the cupcake and wine pairing at Delheim.
You Can Travel for Next to Nothing
Not into luxury hotels? If you want a dirt cheap place to lay your head, look no further than South Africa. Itβs the perfect place to pinch pennies without having to forgo comfort.
Not only is it the least expensive wine region I’ve ever been to, but it is also top notch. You can go to $5 wine tastings or splurge on a four-course gourmet meal for less than $15.
Here’s a comparison on wine regions around the world and their costs!
365 Days of Amazing Weather
South Africa is renowned for its sunshine. With average summer temperatures of 77 degrees and winter temps that rarely dip below 50 degrees at night, it is always a good time to be in South Africa.
Bring a light jacket if you will be traveling to South Africa in winter (and remember that winter runs from May to September!) or remember to pack your bikini and shorts for Christmas break.
Read More: The Best Time to Travel to South Africa
Unique Varietals Thatβll Blow Your Mind
In the mood for some Pinotage? How about a nice glass of Chenin Blanc? Any true wine lover will be enamored by the opportunity to try a bevy of unique wine varietals that you can only find in South Africa.
So, when you are ready for an adventure filled with endless sunshine, top-notch wine, and world-class luxury, join me on the trip of a lifetime to South Africa. Youβll fall in love before youβre even checked into your hotel!
Thanks for sharing all of the wonderful information. However…
Why do you talk about SA without featuring indigenous Africans culture or giving people a more rounded and deeper glimpse into the country? The culture, the soil, and the history give the food, the wine and the awesomeness it’s flavor! Your audience may be people who look like you, however, feel empowered to show the reality of the place and the people as opposed to just your perspective. Although the vineyards are owned by the African settlers and much of the wealth is in their possession, the country is still made of of Africans whose cultures should not be white washed even if you’re talking about the high society activities that most of the locals cannot afford. You can still be ‘The Blonde Abroad’ and recognize that the country has deep history that’s more than bubbly and boutique hotels.
I am an African and American who has lived and traveled extensively around the world. As a matter of fact, next stop is Mexico before going to Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Maybe our paths will cross one day. Cheers!
Hi Joseph,
I appreciate the question but I am not a travel journalist. There is so much to the country and culture, however, I am approaching things as a travel blogger sharing itineraries and tourism-focused blog posts to support South Africa (and places around the world), and hopefully encourage tourism there. I have a ton more articles regarding South Africa β but this post was strictly about their wine! Cheers!