Monday 12 April 2027 to Sunday 25 April 2027

An exceptional journey through South Africa’s Cape — where heritage meets innovation and every day flows effortlessly from vineyard to safari sunset.

From the cosmopolitan charm of Cape Town to the culinary brilliance of the Winelands and the wild beauty of the Karoo, each experience has been carefully curated to balance indulgence with authenticity. Enjoy world-class wines, award-winning dining, elegant retreats, private tastings, and unforgettable safari moments beneath starlit skies.

More than an itinerary, this is a journey told through South Africa’s people, landscapes, and flavours — a seamless blend of sophistication, adventure, and soul, designed to be savoured long after the final sunset.

Ken is an acclaimed Australian wine writer and critic based in Brisbane, Queensland. After studying law at the University of Queensland and gaining experience in London and Washington, D.C., Ken transitioned to journalism and became a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed extensively to publications such as The Courier-Mail, World of Fine Wine, Quill & Pad, Drinks Trade, Fine Magazine, Halliday Magazine, Ocean Magazine, Tastingbook, and WinePilot. 

As a former editor of Fine Wine & Champagne Australia/New Zealand, Ken has been a regular wine columnist since the early 90's, and is highly regarded in the wine community.

 Beyond wine, Ken writes on cigars, travel, fishing, and food. His personal blog, Kenfessions, explores these interests with wit and depth. When he’s not writing, Ken is often fly-fishing for trout in New Zealand or bonefishing in the Carribean, relaxing with a fine cigar, or passionately following sports teams like the Broncos, Washington Commanders, Queensland Reds, Arsenal FC, and the Australian cricket side. 

Meet your driver upon arrival at Cape Town Airport and enjoy a comfortable, direct transfer to your hotel.

Awarded One MICHELIN Key in The MICHELIN Guide 2025, The Cellars-Hohenort embodies timeless elegance in the heart of Cape Town’s Vineyard — the historic Constantia Valley. Just 15 minutes from the city centre and the V&A Waterfront, this 5-star sanctuary within The Liz McGrath Collection is a proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

The hotel’s 51 luxurious rooms and suites overlook both the property’s celebrated gardens and the majestic Table Mountain range. At The Conservatory, guests savour refined, seasonal dishes that showcase the flavours and heritage of the Cape. Completing the experience are the Fresh Wellness Spa, two swimming pools, a gym, and a tennis court — ensuring every stay is both restorative and remarkable.

As your fellow Wine Journey travellers gather for the first time, raise a glass of fine South African wine in this setting of timeless elegance — manicured lawns, ancient oak trees, and the warm Cape evening light fading over the vineyards. It's the perfect introduction to the journey ahead, and to the remarkable people you'll share it with

Modern old-school – that’s Merchant Bar & Grill in a nutshell. The old-school… an honest return to kitchen basics, provenance and the four seasons. The modern… a menu for today and a bar that oozes cosmopolitanism. Expect simplicity, intensity of flavour and a window on South Africa’s best producers, in the hub of the city.

Start the day with a generous breakfast at The Conservatory, where fresh seasonal produce, warm pastries, and made-to-order hot dishes are served in a light-filled garden setting beneath ancient Camphor trees.

Slip into the elegance of a bygone era as you are chauffeured in style toward the heart of the Cape Winelands. The day’s private touring includes visits to some of the region’s most celebrated wineries, combining scenic drives, tastings and exceptional cuisine.

The journey begins with the legendary Chapman’s Peak Drive, a masterpiece of engineering carved into sheer cliffside along nine kilometres of dramatic coastline. Widely regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the world, the route reveals sweeping ocean vistas, towering mountains and winding curves that unveil new views at every turn.

The Cape’s first farm, established in 1682, has come a long way from its humble beginnings. Steenberg is a destination steeped in heritage; a complete destination, the farm houses an exceptional winery, producing some of the finest Sauvignon Blanc in South Africa, along with several other celebrated varietals.

Dating back to 1685 and described as one of the world’s most beautiful wine estates, Klein Constantia is set amidst ancient trees on the upper foothills of the Constantiaberg, with views across False Bay.

Situated at Beau Constantia Wine Estate with vistas of vertiginous Cape vines and the Constantia Valley. Chef patron Ivor Jones is a classic and experimental creative. As the season changes and inspirations just as much, Ivor can flow through ideas and ingredients and adjust, adapt and improve on classics while fusing flavours, techniques and ferments. Always looking to highlight the best of what is local and fresh, Ivor sparks a lust for experimentation in food and his team, and it shows in his beautiful plates.

Groot Constantia has been producing legendary wines since 1685, making it South Africa’s oldest wine-producing estate.

The estate is a significant part of global wine heritage and a world-class tourism destination, reflecting the rich and diverse history of South Africa. It offers visitors a unique cultural, social, and historical experience while continuing to craft exceptional wines. Groot Constantia stands as an iconic example of the preservation of South African culture, heritage, and winemaking excellence.

(own arrangements, not included)

This evening is yours to explore. Dine in-house at The Conservatory, where Head Chef Daniel Blignaut's seasonal menu celebrates Cape flavours — from the signature double-baked cheese soufflé to fresh seafood and produce-driven mains paired with Constantia Valley wines. Alternatively, the Constantia Valley and Cape Town city centre, just 15 minutes away, offer a wealth of outstanding dining options to suit every mood.

Before departing the hotel this morning enjoy a wholesome breakfast, expect fresh juices, hot specialities and options for every taste.

Hamilton Russell Vineyards – one of the most southerly wine Estates in Africa and one of the closest to the sea – pioneered viticulture and winemaking in the beautiful, cool, maritime Hemel-en-Aarde Valley appellation, just behind the old fishing village of Hermanus.

 The Estate specialises in producing highly individual, terroir-driven Pinot noir and Chardonnay, which are widely regarded as the best in South Africa and among the finest in the New World.

Freshly baked pastries and breads fill the air with their aroma, while seasonal fruits, cold cuts, artisan cheeses, and house-made preserves entice your eyes and palate. The kitchen crafts each egg dish to your preference, and quality coffee, fresh juices, and tea accompany the spread.

Today you’ll experience the charm of the Franschhoek Wine Tram, one of South Africa’s most iconic wine experiences. The tram offers a delightful open-air journey through the picturesque Franschhoek Valley, surrounded by vineyards and mountain scenery.

Rickety Bridge offers a setting as refined as the wines it produces.

Begin with a guided walk through the vineyards, followed by an exclusive cellar tour and barrel tasting.

Enjoy a two-course wine-paired lunch at Paulina’s Restaurant, featuring seasonal dishes inspired by the valley’s bounty.

Concluding with a private tasting paired with artisan cheeses, offering a final chance to savour the nuances of Rickety Bridge’s portfolio.

More than just a tasting, this is an experience of connection — to the land, to the vines, and to the enduring artistry that makes Rickety Bridge one of Franschhoek’s most beloved wine estates.

Haute Cabrière is a landmark of Franschhoek’s wine country — a family-owned estate where tradition, artistry, and terroir come together in harmony. Built seamlessly into the mountainside, the estate combines striking architecture with breathtaking vineyard views and an unmistakable sense of place.

Since the 1980s, the von Arnim family has championed Burgundian-style varieties — especially Chardonnay and Pinot Noir — crafting wines that are elegant, expressive, and deeply rooted in the Franschhoek Valley.

Alongside their celebrated Pierre Jourdan range of Cap Classique sparkling wines, Haute Cabrière also produces distinctive still wines that reflect the cool-climate character of their mountain vineyards.

This evening is yours to explore Franschhoek’s remarkable culinary scene at your own pace.

Choose between cosy bistros serving Cape-inspired comfort food, modern fine-dining restaurants offering multi-course tasting menus, or charming wine-estate eateries where elegant plates are paired with estate vintages and sweeping mountain views.

Or stay in and enjoy the hospitality at Le Petit Manoir.

Enjoy breakfast at Le Petit Manoir before the day’s adventures begin.

Enjoy a slow and easy Saturday morning in the heart of Franschhoek, where the village comes alive with local charm and creativity.

The Franschhoek Saturday Village Market is a must — a lively blend of artisan stalls, fresh produce, handmade crafts, and gourmet bites beneath the old oak trees.

For art lovers, the town’s galleries showcase everything from contemporary South African works to fine sculpture and photography

Stylish boutiques offer elegant fashion, décor, and jewellery inspired by the valley’s refined aesthetic.

Le Lude Estate is a distinguished, family-owned winery on the edge of Franschhoek, devoted exclusively to crafting Méthode Cap Classique — South Africa’s most refined expression of traditional bottle-fermented sparkling wine.

The Taille Wine Tasting offers a guided tour through the production cellar and underground caves, followed by a personalised tasting of their acclaimed Méthode Cap Classique wines and a hand-selected local cheese board.

Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines is the partnership between Chris and Andrea Mullineux and Analjit Singh. The partnership owns two of South Africa’s most highly regarded wineries – Leeu Passant in Franschhoek and Mullineux in the Swartland.

Set among sculpted gardens and vineyards at the foot of the Dassenberg mountains, Leeu Estates is a serene showcase of art, architecture, and fine wine. An exclusive opportunity to explore the individuality of the Swartland’s diverse soils through a carefully curated flight, including rare bottlings and expressive reds that capture the structure, minerality, and perfume that define Mullineux’s winemaking philosophy.

Start your day with a relaxed breakfast in the sunlit dining room or courtyard at Le Petit Manoir.

Enjoy a beautifully curated day at Boschendal Wine Estate, beginning with an immersive Riedel Glassware Experience hosted by DGB. Guests are guided through a tasting of Signature Nicolas Wines, discovering how the shape of each glass enhances the aroma and flavour of every varietal.

The experience flows into a relaxed Family Feast set against the historic Rhone Homestead, with an elegant outdoor setup in the rose garden. With seamless service and a dedicated team throughout, this experience blends exceptional food, premium wines, and the timeless beauty of the Cape Winelands.

The beautiful Plaisir Wine Estate is situated at the foot of the Simonsberg Mountain, between Franschhoek and Paarl. The wines produced here are inspired by the harmony of a rich history, fertile soil, and lush vineyards.

Deeply entrenched in centuries of winemaking tradition, every grape is carefully nurtured to create wines that reflect both the estate’s heritage and the true essence of its surroundings.

Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at Grande Roche Restaurant, where mornings are unhurried and beautifully prepared. The menu features an array of fresh fruit, pastries, and baked breads, alongside made-to-order dishes. Pair your meal with barista coffee, loose-leaf tea, or fresh juice while taking in the tranquil garden views and the quiet charm of the surrounding estate.

Just over two hours’ drive from Franschhoek or Paarl, Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve offers a memorable change of pace: a true African safari adventure, world-class hospitality, and a deep sense of connection with nature.

Set across 10,000 hectares of pristine Karoo wilderness, Inverdoorn is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the Big Five and a renowned cheetah conservation and rehabilitation programme. The reserve’s landscapes are striking — open plains, acacia scrub, and distant mountain ridges — creating an atmosphere of vastness and tranquillity. With elegant lodgings, expertly guided safaris, and opportunities to learn about conservation firsthand, Inverdoorn is not just a stopover but a highlight — a moment to rest, reset, and immerse yourself in the magic of the African bush.

Autumn (Fall) in the Karoo brings warm days and cool evenings. The veld takes on a beautiful silky appearance as the succulents and grasslands produce seeds which are blown away by the gentle autumn breeze. As the summer season ends, this is the when most of Inverdoorn’s hands-on conservation work is done, such as the cheetah rehabilitation project. 

12:30pm – Arrival & Orientation
Arrive at Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve and be welcomed with refreshing drinks before a brief orientation. This introduction sets the tone for your safari, covering the reserve, wildlife, and what to expect during your stay.

1:00pm – Lunch
Enjoy a relaxed lunch overlooking the Karoo landscape. Seasonal dishes are served in a tranquil setting, allowing you to unwind after your journey and soak in the surroundings.

2:00pm – Check-In
Settle into your luxury accommodation and take some time at leisure—whether relaxing in your room, by the pool, or simply enjoying the stillness of the reserve.

5:00pm – Evening Game Drive & Sundowners
Head out on your first guided Big 5 safari drive with expert rangers. As the sun begins to set, pause for “sundowners” in a scenic spot—drinks in hand while watching the colours of the Karoo sky change.

7:30pm – Dinner
Return to the lodge for a beautifully prepared dinner. Dining is typically set in an atmospheric location, offering a blend of local flavours and warm hospitality.

9:00pm – Karoo Star Experience
End your evening with a magical stargazing experience. Guided by rangers, you’ll explore the vast Karoo night sky, known for its clarity and incredible constellations—an unforgettable, peaceful close to your first safari day.

6:00am – Morning Coffee
Start the day gently with tea and coffee served at the lodge, a quiet moment to take in the crisp Karoo air before heading out on safari.

6:30am – Morning Game Drive
Set out at first light for a sunrise game drive at Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve. Early morning is one of the best times to spot wildlife, as animals are most active in the cooler hours.

9:00am – Breakfast
Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast. Enjoy a generous spread designed to refuel you after the morning’s adventure.

1:00pm – Lunch
A leisurely lunch is served during the warmest part of the day, offering time to relax and reflect on your sightings while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

5:00pm – Evening Game Drive & Sundowners
Venture out once more as the day cools. This late-afternoon drive offers a different perspective of the reserve, ending with sundowners in a scenic setting as the sun dips below the horizon.

7:30pm – Dinner
Dinner is served back at the lodge, where you can unwind and share stories of the day’s wildlife encounters in a welcoming atmosphere.

9:00pm – Karoo Star Experience
Conclude the evening beneath a blanket of stars. The Karoo’s remote location provides exceptional stargazing, offering a serene and memorable end to a full day on safari.

6:00am – Morning Coffee
Enjoy a final early-morning coffee as the reserve begins to wake, a peaceful moment to savour your last sunrise in the Karoo.

6:30am – Morning Game Drive
Head out on one last game drive at Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve. This is a great opportunity to catch any final wildlife sightings and soak in the beauty of the landscape one last time.

9:00am – Breakfast
Return to the lodge for breakfast, a relaxed and satisfying end to your safari experience.

10:00am – Departure
After check-out, begin your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of your time in the reserve.

After breakfast, travel just over two hours to the Stellenbosch wine region.

This afternoon at Tokara is a celebration of the senses — an encounter with South Africa’s finest wine, cuisine, and landscape all in one remarkable setting.

Knowledgeable hosts guide you through each tasting, sharing insights into Tokara’s philosophy of precision and purity, where vineyard altitude, terroir, and craftsmanship define every bottle.

Lunch follows at the Tokara Restaurant, an acclaimed culinary destination where modern South African cuisine meets seasonal produce sourced from the estate’s orchards and gardens.

This evening, settle into the serene elegance of Jordan Wine Estate, a secluded sanctuary tucked between the vineyards and gentle mountain slopes of Stellenbosch.

Family-owned and renowned for its world-class wines, the estate is a place where nature, hospitality, and craftsmanship come together in perfect harmony. As the afternoon light fades across the vines, the air fills with a sense of calm — a slower rhythm that invites you to unwind and savour the beauty of the winelands.

Tonight, enjoy a relaxed and intimate in-room picnic experience at Jordan Wine Estate — a beautiful way to end the day surrounded by the quiet serenity of the vineyards. Instead of a formal dinner, a gourmet picnic basket from The Cellar Door is delivered to your suite, filled with a selection of locally sourced delicacies. Expect artisanal breads, estate cheeses, charcuterie, fresh salads, and sweet treats — perfectly paired with a bottle of Jordan wine of your choice.

This morning offers an exceptional tasting at Glenelly Estate, one of Stellenbosch’s most elegant and distinctive wineries.

Your Private Wine Tasting is a host-led event offering an intimate and in-depth exploration of Glenelly’s portfolio.

A light lunch at Rust en Vrede Estate, an ideal setting for a wonderful afternoon out in the winelands, surrounded by our towering oaks and manicured gardens.

One of the first signature chef restaurants in the Cape Winelands, The Jordan Restaurant has been serving contemporary fare to the country since 2009.

Head Chef Marthinus Ferreira has helped shape the South African food scene, bringing his flair for food gastronomy and global influences to your table. He has worked with some of the world’s top chefs, including Chef Gordon Ramsay & Chef Heston Blumenthal.

Chef Marthinus offers a contemporary farm-style dining experience with produce-focused dishes sourced from surrounding farms and local suppliers. Making seasonal produce the star of the show.

Breakfast can be enjoyed either in your suite or at The Cellar Door restaurant, begin your morning surrounded by the stillness of the vineyards as the sun rises over the Stellenbosch hills.

VUUR, meaning fire in Afrikaans, is both the method and the heartbeat of the kitchen. Every dish is crafted over open flames, and each plate is paired with a Remhoogte wine chosen to deepen the narrative of flavour. Food moves directly from fire to table, carrying the smoke, heat, and immediacy that define the experience.

VUUR Goose Island is an intimate chef’s table that invites more guests to gather, connect, and experience the elemental magic of VUUR.

(not included)

Dinner experiences at Babylonstoren

Babel Restaurant
Open daily from 6:00pm to 8:30pm (closing at 9:00pm), Babel offers a seasonal farm-to-table dining experience. Menus are inspired by what is fresh from the garden, creating beautifully presented dishes that celebrate simplicity, flavour, and provenance.

The Old Bakery – Italian Evenings (Monday, Tuesday & Friday)
Enjoy a relaxed, Italian-inspired dinner in a warm, rustic setting. The four-course experience begins with antipasti and fresh salads, followed by homemade pasta and finishes with delicious wood-fired pizzas, served generously for a shared and indulgent evening.

Breakfast is what’s in season and ready for picking in the garden, you can expect the freshest of just-blended juices, seasonal fruit, homemade muesli with a twist, freshly baked bread from our bakery, thick farm-style yoghurts and our own farm honey.

(Not included)

Select from

Babel Restaurant
The estate’s signature dining venue, Babel offers a refined farm-to-table lunch experience in a beautifully restored barn setting. Menus change daily based on what is harvested from the gardens, with fresh salads, seasonal mains, and light desserts showcasing the estate’s produce. It’s a relaxed yet elegant sit-down dining experience with views across the orchards and gardens.

The Greenhouse (Garden Café Experience)
For a more casual option, the Greenhouse offers light, informal lunches inspired by the garden. Guests can enjoy simple seasonal dishes, fresh juices, and light bites in a tranquil outdoor setting surrounded by nature. It’s a flexible, relaxed alternative to Babel, ideal for a shorter or more casual lunch experience.

Journey to our underground wine tunnel to savour Babylonstoren’s finest wines. Our cellar tour starts in the vineyards above ground, where vines from various styles are cultivated. From there, we venture into the working cellar with its array of wine-producing vessels, from amphorae clay pots to open cement fermenters and concrete eggs. The tour concludes with a master tasting of our finest wines, paired with farm-grown and handmade delicacies.  

For a truly memorable farewell to your Wine Journey guests are welcomed with a final glass of something special — perhaps a signature pour that reflects the region — setting the tone for a relaxed and elegant night ahead.

The menu is crafted as a journey in itself — seasonal, generous, and reflective of the destination. Each course is paired with carefully selected wines, telling a story of place and time. Dishes arrive with a sense of rhythm, allowing space for connection, laughter, and reflection between courses.

As the final course is served and glasses are raised, the atmosphere becomes something quietly special — a blend of gratitude, celebration, and a touch of nostalgia. It’s not just a dinner, but a closing chapter that feels considered, relaxed, and genuinely memorable.r

This morning is the final breakfast of your extraordinary wine and safari journey before we return to Cape Town.

After a relaxed breakfast and final moments to enjoy the estate, you will check out and depart for your transfer to Cape Town Airport.