Hemel-en-Aarde Valley

For wine lovers looking to taste, learn and experience South Africa’s diverse grapes, look no further than the cool climate Hemel-en-Aarde valley.

What you'll do

This tour is as much about spectacular scenery (Hemel-en-Aarde directly translates as ‘Heaven and Earth’ which gives the game away a little!) as it is about darn good wine. The day starts with a drive along the picture-perfect Cape Whale Route through the quaint towns of the Western Cape, taking in views of fynbos-clad hillsides and the dazzling Atlantic Ocean. Once in the idyllic valley protected by the Babylonstoren Mountains, you’ll stop off for a few different wine tastings in which the critically acclaimed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay will certainly make an appearance. Living up to its name, the wine estates of Hemel-en-Aarde are certainly unique, from the church-like Ataraxia Wine Lounge on a secluded hilltop, the chart-topping ocean views from La Vierge to the delightful Creation Estate. Lunch is served at its award-winning restaurant that’s a feast for the senses, and in the afternoon, you’ll sabrage your own bottle of bubbly from the region’s only MCC-producer. Add a drive down to nearby Hermanus to your day for a spot of whalewatching!