STAY
THE COUNTRY GUEST HOUSE
The best vintages aren’ t the only things that improve with time. Once the tasting rooms close and the day-trippers leave, Stellenbosch gets even better. So don’ t just sip and sprint, stay a little longer.
It’ s been 55 years since visionaries Frans Malan of Simonsig, Niel Joubert of Spier, and Spatz Sperling of Delheim established South Africa’ s first official wine route in 1971, and since then, the experience has grown far beyond what happens in the tasting glass. Today, Stellenbosch is a destination for exceptional wine, design, hospitality, and slow living.
It’ s a fitting evolution for a region celebrating a milestone year. From boutique vineyard stays to unforgettable dining experiences and unique activities, these are the places worth lingering at, where the glorious mornings are just as rewarding as the sun-drenched afternoons, and checking out is the hardest part.
NEETHLINGSHOF WINE ESTATE One of Stellenbosch’ s oldest estates, Neethlingshof blends pedigreed heritage with modern comforts and experiences. Explore the iconic tree-lined entrance before enjoying curated wine pairings and tastings, including their vegan-friendly wines. It’ s a destination where history, sustainability and exceptional wine come together.
THE COUNTRY GUEST HOUSE & 96 WINERY ROAD For a true countryside escape, The Country Guest House combines charming accommodation with exceptional dining. Surrounded by vineyards and mountain views, it offers a peaceful retreat, while the on-site 96 Winery Road Restaurant adds another reason to stay. Expect generous cuisine, excellent wines and relaxed meals that capture the spirit of Stellenbosch hospitality.
VILLIERA WINES A stop at Villiera’ s tasting room is a must for lovers of Cap Classique and fine wine. But the experience goes beyond the cellar door. Book a two-hour game drive through the 230-hectare Wildlife Sanctuary, where giraffe, zebra, antelope and birdlife create an unexpected safari experience among the vineyards.
THE KLEINE ZALZE RESTAURANT No Stellenbosch escape is complete without a memorable meal. The Kleine Zalze Restaurant offers honest cooking by chef Nic van Wyk, with beautiful dishes to pair with the estate’ s wines. Whether it’ s a relaxed terrace lunch or wine after a tasting, Kleine Zalze is a highlight of the Winelands food scene.
L’ AVENIR WINE ESTATE For an intimate Winelands escape, L’ Avenir is a standout. This boutique estate combines elegant accommodation, sweeping vineyard views and lakeside tranquillity with complimentary wine tastings. Known for its Pinotage and Chenin Blanc, it’ s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the beauty of Stellenbosch at your own pace.
JORDAN WINE ESTATE For a luxury stay among the vines, Jordan Wine
OCTOBER 2026 / INBOUND SA 79