From Stellenbosch: Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tour Southern Route

Exploring the Southern Route of Stellenbosch’s Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tour promises a customizable adventure that delves into the region’s rich winemaking heritage. Visitors can chart their own course, discovering the historic Spier Estate, the distinctive wines of Haskell Vineyards, the renowned Van Ryn’s Brandy, and more. The tour showcases Stellenbosch’s quality craftsmanship, from the premium offerings of Alto Estate to the charming Kleine Zalze Lodge and the centuries-old Neethlingshof Estate. With an array of options, this tour invites travelers to uncover the nuances that make Stellenbosch’s wine country truly exceptional.

Key Points

• Provides a flexible, customizable winery experience with access to diverse vineyards and the option to craft a personalized itinerary.
• Includes a visit to the historic Spier Estate, known for its Cape Dutch architecture, dining options, and centuries-old winemaking traditions.
• Offers a chance to explore the distinctive Haskell Vineyards, known for its handcrafted, high-quality red wines and intimate winemaking experience.
• Includes a tour of the renowned Van Ryn’s Brandy Distillery, showcasing the art of brandy making and its time-honored production methods.
• Highlights the opportunity to visit the handcrafted Alto Estate, renowned for its premium red wines, and the charming Kleine Zalze Lodge for an ideal wine tour stopover.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Customizable Winery Experience

The hop-on hop-off wine tour allows visitors to customise their winery experience by selecting the estates they wish to explore along the southern route in Stellenbosch, South Africa.

This freedom gives travelers the flexibility to craft their own itinerary and discover the diverse range of vineyards at their own pace.

Whether they want to visit the historic Spier Estate with over 300 years of history or the acclaimed Alto Estate known for its handcrafted red wines, the tour provides access to a variety of acclaimed wineries.

Guests can also tour the Van Ryn’s Brandy Distillery, the only local brandy producer in the region.

This customisable experience ensures each visitor can tailor the tour to their unique interests and preferences.

Historic Spier Estate

One of the highlights of the hop-on hop-off wine tour is a visit to the historic Spier Estate, which boasts over 300 years of winemaking heritage.

Established in 1692, this expansive 300-hectare property is considered one of the largest wine estates in the region, offering visitors a glimpse into Stellenbosch’s rich viticultural past.

Guests can explore the estate’s well-preserved Cape Dutch architecture, stroll through its beautifully landscaped gardens, and learn about its centuries-old traditions of wine production.

The Spier Estate also features a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to fine-dining restaurants, allowing visitors to savor the region’s acclaimed culinary offerings alongside its world-renowned wines.

Distinctive Haskell Vineyards

Another highlight of the hop-on hop-off wine tour is the Haskell Vineyards, a boutique winery known for its distinctive, handcrafted red wines.

Nestled in the scenic Stellenbosch region, Haskell Vineyards offers visitors a more intimate winemaking experience compared to the sprawling Spier Estate. The estate was founded in 2002 by a former investment banker who’d a passion for winemaking.

Today, Haskell focuses on producing small-batch, high-quality red wines that showcase the unique terroir of the area. Guests can explore the wine cellar, learn about the winemaking process, and sample the estate’s acclaimed Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot offerings.

The tranquil setting and personalized attention make Haskell a standout stop on the Stellenbosch wine tour.

Renowned Van Ryn’s Brandy

Founded in 1845, Van Ryn’s Brandy Distillery stands as the only local brandy producer featured on the hop-on hop-off wine tour. Offering visitors an in-depth look at the art of brandy making, the distillery’s guided tours allow guests to explore its time-honored production methods and sample its acclaimed portfolio of premium brandies.

Renowned for its dedication to quality and craftsmanship, Van Ryn’s has earned a reputation as a must-visit destination for brandy enthusiasts and those seeking to delve deeper into the region’s rich spirits heritage.

The tour highlights include:

1. Discovering the distillery’s century-old copper pot stills and learning about the intricate process of double distillation.
2. Tasting a selection of the distillery’s award-winning brandies, including the flagship 10-year-old and the rare vintage expressions.
3. Exploring the on-site tasting room and discovering the art of brandy pairing with local delicacies.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Handcrafted Alto Estate Wines

Nestled in the heart of the Helderberg Basin, Alto Estate has been crafting handpicked, premium red wines since 1922, drawing on its rich heritage and meticulous viticulture practices to deliver exceptional quality. Their dedication to sustainable farming and attention to detail can be tasted in every sip of their renowned Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Shiraz. Visitors to Alto Estate can explore the estate’s history, tour the cellars, and savor the complex flavors that have made these wines a local favorite.

Varietal	Tasting Notes	Awards
Cabernet Sauvignon	Bold, full-bodied, with notes of dark berries and oak	Decanter World Wine Awards – Gold
Merlot	Smooth, velvety texture, with ripe plum and spice aromas	International Wine & Spirit Competition – Silver
Shiraz	Robust, with layers of black pepper, dark fruit, and vanilla	Veritas Awards – Double Gold

Charming Kleine Zalze Lodge

Just down the road from Alto Estate, Kleine Zalze Lodge invites visitors to experience its charming hospitality and stunning vineyard setting.

This family-owned estate dates back to 1705, providing a rich history and picturesque backdrop for guests to enjoy the region’s renowned wines and natural beauty.

The lodge offers a variety of amenities that enhance the wine tour experience:

Elegant guest suites overlooking the vineyards and Stellenbosch mountains.

An on-site restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine paired with Kleine Zalze’s award-winning wines.

Opportunities to explore the estate’s historic grounds and winemaking facilities.

Kleine Zalze Lodge’s tranquil atmosphere and attention to detail make it an ideal stopover for discovering the best of Stellenbosch’s wine country.

Centuries-Old Neethlingshof Estate

Dating back over 300 years, the Neethlingshof Estate stands as a testament to Stellenbosch’s rich winemaking history.

Originally established in 1705, this family-owned property has been carefully cultivated and preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s storied past.

Spanning over 200 hectares, the estate boasts a diverse range of grape varietals, from the iconic Cabernet Sauvignon to the lesser-known Malbec.

Visitors can explore the historic Manor House, which dates back to the 18th century, and sample the estate’s award-winning wines at the modern tasting room.

With its idyllic setting and commitment to quality, Neethlingshof Estate is a must-visit destination for any wine enthusiast exploring the Stellenbosch region.

Tips and Considerations

Visitors can maximize their experience on the hop-on hop-off wine tour by considering a few important tips. While the tour allows for self-guided exploration, prudent planning can enhance one’s enjoyment of the region’s diverse wine offerings. For instance, travelers may wish to research and prioritize the wine estates they wish to visit, as each showcases its own unique character and specialties.

Plus, being mindful of tasting fees and budgeting accordingly can help manage costs throughout the day.

To make the most of the tour, visitors should also:

1. Arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure ample time at each destination.
2. Bring a designated driver or arrange for transportation between estates.
3. Pace themselves and stay hydrated to safely enjoy the wine tasting experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Wine Tour?

The dress code for the wine tour is casual and comfortable. Visitors should wear clothes and shoes suitable for walking around vineyards and wine estates. There is no formal dress requirement, as the tour is focused on wine tasting and exploration.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Riders can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour does not include any meals or beverages. Participants should check with the wine estates for any restrictions on outside food and drinks.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available at the Wineries?

Most wineries on the tour provide restroom facilities for visitors. Guests can use the restrooms during their wine tastings and exploration of the estates. Accessibility and cleanliness of the facilities may vary across the different wineries.

Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Tour?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the wine tour. However, it’s best to check with individual wineries, as some may have restrictions or require prior permission. Overall, photography is typically permitted for personal use.

Do I Need to Make Reservations for the Wine Tastings?

No, reservations are generally not required for the wine tastings on this hop-on hop-off tour. Visitors can simply arrive at the selected wine estates and pay the tasting fees directly to enjoy the wines at their own pace.

Recap

The ‘From Stellenbosch: Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tour Southern Route’ offers a customizable and immersive experience, showcasing Stellenbosch’s diverse winemaking heritage.

Visitors can explore a range of renowned estates, from the historic Spier to the centuries-old Neethlingshof, while savoring handcrafted wines and distinctive brandy.

The tour provides a comprehensive and flexible way to discover the region’s rich wine culture and quality craftsmanship at one’s own pace.

You can check if your dates are available here: