In August some of the PCO Alliance Network members went on an extremely enjoyable and informative Cape Winelands Tour. We linked up with Stellenbosch Tourism who arranged the transfers for the group. This epic tour started off at Middelvlei Wine Estate which is in the picturesque Stellenbosch region, where the members were taught to blend their own wine!
This immersive activity not only allows participants to engage in traditional wine tasting but also provides the unique opportunity to create and bottle their own custom wine for R380. This hands-on experience sets Middlevlei apart from other wine estates in the region, creating a memorable and interactive way to appreciate wine. Middlevlei’s wine blending activity is also available in Johannesburg and at select surrounding wine estates upon request.
Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa which is a 5 Star Graded Property in Somerset West, was next on the agenda and the members spent the night in this stunning, charming hotel. Beautiful art throughout the property which includes pieces from the Imbala Trust (art created by school children). This beautifully appointed hotel offers conference and event space for up to 120 delegates.
The first visit the following morning was to the Cavalli Wine Estate which is situated in 100 hectares of wine estate in the Helderberg region. They offer Award winning wines, a restaurant, art gallery and creative event spaces. The group then went onto AMAZINK South Africa’s oldest township dinner theatre. It is a vibrant restaurant and events venue in the heart of Kayamandi, that hosts conference groups, events, live shows and celebrations. Guests can opt to use the inside facility or the outside amphitheater. A Walking Tour in Kayamandi, Responsible Tourism conducted by Township and Village who offer visitors authentic community experiences presented by local guides.
L’ Avenir Wine Estate was next – award winning wines a 11 bedroom Country Lodge and a beautiful venue suitable for conferences and events overlooking the estate. A Unique carpaccio and wine pairing experience was thoroughly enjoyed. To continue an already incredible day – the group traveled to Lanzerac Wine Estate and Spa situated in the Jonkershoek Valley of Stellenbosch. This 5 star Estate offers a wonderful culinary experience which is created by their long-standing, award-winning Welsh Chef. A Conservatory for 120 pax – beneath an impressive glass roof, has an attached tasting bar. There are plenty of open areas to do outdoor events and a wonderful cellar filled with locally made goodies and venues which can accommodate from 12 – 200 delegates.
Our group spent the night at the Protea by Marriott in Stellenbosch, which has a golf course right next door. It is a wonderful option for large groups – accommodating up to 600 delegates in the beautiful Stellenbosch region.
The last day of this memorial Winelands Tour started off at Lady Bird Lodge which has 8 rooms and it is flanked by Kanonkop wine estate, which has been voted number 12 out of 50 contenders for The Most Admired wine brand IN THE WORLD…the only South African wine estate that was elected in this category. Lady Bird Lodge has it’s wine tastings here. Kanonkop is eager to host wine tastings in Gauteng and can be contacted for Gauteng events. There is no restaurant on this estate although private catering and snoek braais are offered on special request.
Spier Wine Estate, Hotel and Spa was the very last venue to be visited before saying farewell to the Cape Winelands. This beloved venue has been on a sustainability drive and has reduced its accommodation rooms to 80 and they have removed their 400 seater conference venue. 2025 will see them introducing an Organic Spa, Food Garden for guests, the largest heated pool in Stellenbosch and Art Tours