5 SA wine estates to visit
5 REASONS TO ADD SEYCHELLES TO YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET LIST
Theescombe Estate Wine
Theescombe Estate Wine is Port Elizabeth’s only wine farm. Owner Sandra Futter makes the experience all the more worthwhile with her engaging storytelling. Travellers will enjoy a tour of the vineyards, learning about winemaking and partake in a tutored tasting with a cheese platter. Tastings start from R230pp. Call 073 889 6663.
Abingdon Wine Estate
Set in the KZN Midlands, Abingdon was the first farm to produce a certified estate wine from KZN grapes with their maiden vintage in 2007. The 3ha farm, bought by Ian and Jane Smorthwaite in 2000, produces certified
1 It exudes romance
Nothing says romance like a private, remote island getaway that has you waking up to tropical sunrises and taking walks hand in hand on powdery, white sands surrounded by azure waters. There are no better beaches to experience this than the ones in Seychelles. This archipelago is home to world-famous beaches boasting sparkling water and incredibly lush backdrops of forests and dramatic boulders. single vineyard estate wines from 100% KZN grapes. They offer six wine options, including Abingdon Sauvignon Blanc 2018, Chardonnay 2018, Viognier 2017, Blanc de Noir 2018, Syrah 2017 and Cabernet Sauvignon 2017. Abingdon is open for tastings from Friday to Saturday. Tastings take place from 11 am to 4 pm, starting from R30 a glass. Call 083 463 8503 or email jane@abingdonestate.co.za
Highgate Wine Estate
Highgate Wine Estate is a family-run estate in the heart of the scenic KZN Midlands. Visitors can meander through the property capturing grand views of the estate. Highgate Wine Estate offers wines like cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, pinotage, merlot,
2 Adventure paradise
With 115 islands making up Seychelles, there's lots of adventure to experience. On Mahé, immerse yourself in the diverse culture of Seychelles. On Praslin, other than breathtaking scenery, visit the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a Unesco World Heritage Site that is home to the famous coco de mer palm nut. La Digue island will have you going back in time as you take a romantic cycle around the town. syrah, and rosé. Tastings start from R100. Call 033 234 2002 or email wine@highgatewineestate.co.za
Groot Constantia
Known as the oldest wine-producing farm in South Africa, Groot Constantia in Cape Town produces three white wines, a rosé, an MCC, eight red wines, a Cape ruby, a brandy and their Grand Constance sweet wine. Dine at one of their two restaurants, Jonkershuis and Simon’s. Jonkershuis is surrounded by ancient oak trees, while Simon’s offers al fresco dining on the terrace. Order a picnic basket to enjoy on the lawns. Tastings start at R100. Call 021 794 5128. Boschendal
Another old Cape farm to check
3 All-inclusive luxury
If you are on a romantic getaway, one of the best things to indulge in is a little bit of luxury and pampering with your other half, and Seychelles hosts many resorts to pick from. Exclusive resorts are best suited for travellers who want a hassle-free holiday where everything is taken care of for you. And there’s inevitably a spa on hand for additional indulgence.
out is Boschendal in Franschhoek, founded in 1685. Here, travellers can enjoy a wine tasting at Werf Restaurant, go on a picnic, horseback rides or a farm tour that offers rare
4 It offers the best cuisine
Seychelles is the epitome of a foodie destination, and travellers do not leave without sampling a meal prepared with breadfruit. The country’s cuisine is a delightful fusion of Indian, French and Chinese influences. If you have a bold palate, make sure to sample the octopus curry and shark chutney.
personal insight into the farm’s history, regenerative farming practices, and sustainable gardening. Tastings start from R90. Call 021 870 4200.
5 Diving haven
Yes, holidays are for rest, but not all travellers are happy to spend their holiday having cocktails on the beach. Seychelles caters to active travellers by offering the best tropical climate and crystal-clear waters for snorkelling, kayaking and diving, and the forests and national parks are ideal for hiking and getting in touch with rare flora and fauna.