SUMMER OF LOVE
Warm days in the Cape Winelands are one of the best experiences South Africa has to offer. Leana Schoeman reflects on her recent visit to Spier Wine Farm
Imagine long, lazy summer afternoons filled with delicious farm-fresh lunches, poolside lounging and picnics in the shade of an ancient oak tree. On a recent visit to Spier Wine Farm, I was delighted by this iconic establishment, one that’s proud to be among South Africa’s most esteemed Winelands destinations.
Spier is not only a 330-year-old working farm responsible for cultivating and crafting some of the world’s best wine varietals, it offers an immersive and unique experience, as well as housing the country’s largest collection of contemporary art.
ART
As a passionate supporter of local artists, the Spier collection features some of the country’s best artworks, which are thoughtfully curated and woven into the landscape and interior spaces throughout the farm. Whether it’s during a wine tasting, a pop to the restroom or a walk around the farmstead, art is everywhere, serving as a gentle reminder to savour and engage with the beauty around us.
A recent addition to Spier’s offering was its first ceramic art exhibition, An Act of Faith, featuring more than 40 pieces.
The exhibition was curated by Spier
Art Trust’s chief curator, Tamlin Blake, to provide ceramic artists with an established exhibition space to showcase their works to a wider audience.
ACCOMMODATION
The Spier Hotel features beautiful apartments, with a rustic, village-like look and feel. Surrounded by towering oak trees and mountains, the grounds are easily accessible, with a great restaurant and farm shop. Strolling around with a chilled glass of chenin while inspecting the art installations is common.
FOOD
The Farm Café is filled with delicious goodies, from freshly baked bread and pastries to pantry staples like olive oil, honey and eggs, seasonal fruit and veggies, delicious frozen meals and a selection of the estate’s wines.
I recommend their seasonally inspired and nutritious picnic baskets, complete with blankets, cutlery and glassware, for the perfect picnic under an ancient oak tree or on the lush river bank.
So whether it’s wine tasting, lazy picnics, spa days, guided art tours or encounters with eagles, Vineyard Segway tours or nature walks, Spier Wine Farm aims to please.