As a Cape Town resident, I’m familiar with the city’s vast array of tourist attractions, scenic and historic sites as well as the world acclaimed vineyards located in Constantia, Stellenbosch and the outskirts of the city.
The Western Cape’s “wine region” is a must-visit for its lush produce, premium wines, and welcoming vineyards. Spice Route, a wine estate located in Paarl, provides tons of fun, without compromising the grown-ups’ need for fine wine and cuisine.
The estate provides the perfect excursion for locals and visitors to the Mother City, with child-friendly restaurant and activities aplenty that will keep your children entertained while you sample fine wine and other delectable treats on offer.
The estate is home to some of the finest artisan outlets in the country, ranging from chocolate and wine, to pizza and beer. Image an open space with lush rolling lawns set between restaurants, breweries and even a glass blowing studio. Visitors may opt to dine at SA Chef, Bertus Basson’s restaurant, La Grapperia Bistro & Pizzeria, Brenda’s Deli or the Barley & Biltong beer garden.
My personal favourite restaurant is La Grapperia, with its outdoor seating under large oak trees and views of the Stellenbosch mountains.
The restaurant is also home to Wilderer Gin, one of the most prestigious producers of Grappa, Gin and Eau de Vie worldwide.
To fully explore the estate with friends or family, start off with a chocolate tasting at De Villiers Chocolate, which promises to be a hit with the children. Opposite DV, a retro ice-cream stall by Scoop, offers delectable ice-creams on those hot summer days.
Grown-ups can sample craft beer at Cape Brewing Co. next door. CBC is based at Spice Route and rated as one of the best craft beers in South Africa.
Move on to lunch at the various restaurants surrounding the lawn area and end off the day with a coffee and slice of decadent cake from The Cottage Café.
Spice Route now also offer a “Spice Route Passport”; a booklet to the value of R190 pp. This voucher booklet system allows visitors to enjoy tastings from the various outlets on the estate, for 1 year from the date of purchase.
With so much to offer locals and tourists, Spice Route is a destination of choice in Cape Town’s Winelands.