Outdoor fun and perfect picnics in the Stellenbosch Winelands
Planning the ultimate weekend in Stellenbosch? Get outdoors, enjoy some fresh air and the promise of adventure before settling down to a luxurious, 5-star picnic. Outdoor experiences and perfect picnics in the Stellenbosch Winelands don’t get much better than this!
Day 1
Picnic at Quoin Rock
Quoin Rock should be at the top of your list when it comes to perfect picnics in the Stellenbosch Winelands.
Enjoy a safe day outdoors in our custom-made picnic pergolas. Each of the eight picnic spots is spaced more than 10 meters apart for privacy. This casual, fresh-air picnic in scenic Stellenbosch is an excellent choice during the cautionary period of COVID-19.
But it’s their warm, friendly service (complete with walkie talkies) and decadent picnic baskets that will keep you coming back for more! Your wine farm picnic basket includes freshly-baked French baguette with roast tomato butter; rocket pesto, Dalewood cheese selection, Jewels meat selection, a variety of salads, beef fillet and a delicious dessert to end your meal. Unlimited still or sparkling water is included. Of course, their famous Quoin Rock wines make the ideal picnic accompaniment.
Every single detail at Quoin Rock is characterised by high-end luxury, and this translates to their selection of picnic goodies too – and they will happily create a vegetarian picnic feast upon request.
Contact +27 (21) 888 47 50 or winelounge@quoinrock.co.za or visit or website
OR
Hazendal Babushka Picnics
Just a short distance from Cape Town, nestled against the Bottelary Hills, lies one of Stellenbosch’s most historic wine farms: Hazendal Wine Estate. Dating back to 1699, this illustrious wine estate combines Russian and South African traditions for a unique Winelands experience – and their generous Babushka picnics (straight from the Babushka deli) is something to behold.
Your bespoke wicker basket will be brimming with South African and Russian al fresco food made from the highest quality seasonal, fresh, and local ingredients. You can pre-book one of Hazendal’s scenic picnic spots where your basket will be waiting for you when arrive, leaving your to kick off your shoes and relax with the sun on your shoulders and a glass in your hand!
And what exactly does your Babushka basket contain? It changes seasonally but you can expect a selection of mouth-watering morsels, including Babushka artisan breads; hummus with garlic; rosemary and turmeric marinated mushrooms; potted snoek pâté; cold meat selection; roast chicken with dukkah; Russian potato salad; local cheese and homemade chutney; and dessert of the day. Even the littlest guests are welcome, and they’ll enjoy a kiddies basket complete with a DIY cookie decorating kit. It all makes for one of the most perfect picnics in the Stellenbosch Winelands.
While you’re there, pay a visit to the estate’s Marvol Gallery. This unique exhibition space offers a glimpse into Russian art, culture and history. Alongside the owner’s extensive private collections, the gallery provides a platform for old and new artistic trends between South Africa and Russia with rotating exhibitions, talks and events.
Contact + 27 (21) 903 5034 or reception@hazendal.co.za
Dinner at Rust en Vrede
A luxury weekend in Stellenbosch calls for an evening of wine and fine dining. Head to Rust en Vrede for dinner in the estate’s original 1785 wine cellar – a sophisticated yet relaxing and understated fine-dining experience.
The owners have preserved the unique charm of the historic building and you’ll be transported back to simpler times where good food, fine wine and great conversation add up to an extraordinary experience.
Chef Fabio Daniel serves contemporary French cuisine, adding his own unique flair which takes inspiration from his Brazilian and Italian roots. Together with sommelier James Mukosi, he’ll curate a beautiful menu paired with award-winning wines – a singularly perfect evening in the Winelands.
Contact +27 (21) 881 3881 or info@rustenvrede.com
Day 2
Waterford Wine Drive Safari
A 5-star weekend in the Winelands is not complete without a luxury wine tour – with a twist. Waterford’s Wine Drive Safari is a unique three-hour trip on their open safari vehicle through the 120-hectare estate on the beautiful slopes of the Helderberg mountain.
You’ll get the chance to taste Waterford’s award-winning wines in the very vineyards that produced the grapes, and you will be expertly guided through all the aspects of what makes this wine region so biologically diverse and viticulturally unique.
The wine tasting is accompanied by a selection of light snacks, which are perfectly paired with the individual wines. The experience culminates in Waterford’s legendary and uber-luxurious wine and chocolate tasting but be warned bookings are required a week in advance!
Contact +27(0) 21 880 5300 or info@waterfordestate.co.za
Bartinney Wine and Champagne Bar
Before you head back to the realities of everyday life, say goodbye to Stellenbosch in style. A drink at Bartinney Wine and Champagne Bar in the bustling town centre of Stellenbosch is a must! Enjoy seasonal nibbles and sharing plates at the bar, settle in on comfortable reclaimed arm chairs, sit out on the terrace or join fellow wine-lovers spilling out onto Bird Street glass in hand.
You’ll love the quirky finishes and features, including a stunning light installation crafted from old Sauvignon Blanc vines, while the wall is printed with the panoramic view enjoyed by the Bartinney Wine Estate.
Make sure to buy a bottle of Bartinney’s flagship wine or the cheeky Noble Savage – a wonderful memento of your weekend in Stellenbosch.
Contact +27 (0)63 485 374 or winebar@bartinney.co.za
Where to stay
The Homestead at Oldenburg Vineyards
Situated in the picturesque Banghoek valley, The Homestead at Oldenburg Vineyards offers the luxury and exclusivity of villa living in a secluded and tranquil location. Fall in love with the old-world charm of its traditional Cape Dutch architecture, the veranda with its abundant pot plants, and the estate’s rolling lawns, pristine gardens, olive groves and vineyards.
The villa itself has clean, modern interiors and at the heart of The Homestead is a fully-equipped kitchen and adjacent dining room ideal for sociable dining or cosy family meal. The villa sleeps up to 12 people in six bedrooms – and comes with a Villa Manager, Butler and Housekeeper which means you can put your feet up and relax in luxurious comfort with friends and family.
Included in your stay at The Homestead is: exclusive use of The Homestead and all its facilities (including an exquisite swimming pool); a butler service; canapés and drinks on arrival; a hearty Homestead-style breakfast; wine from Oldenburg Vineyards; soft drinks and premium spirits; daily servicing and turndown; private laundry; 24-hour security, wireless internet connection; and a complimentary Oldenburg Vineyards Tasting (one per guest) at The Tasting Room.
Brenaissance
Brenaissance’s range of suites are romantic, quirky and oh so luxurious. Their historic “dorpshuisies” have been restored & refurbished into eight exquisite Vineyard Suites and one spacious Honeymoon Suite, featuring breath-taking views over the valley from the private “stoep”.
In the middle of their small plum orchard, you’ll find six Orchard Suites – the old farmworkers’ cottages that have been restored & renovated to exude elegance & luxury. Ranging from studios and one-bedroom suites to more spacious family units, each unit has its own cast iron wood burning fireplace, mini private deck & braai area – not to mention a fully-equipped kitchen to accommodate longer stays.
You’ll love your stay on this Wine & Stud Estate in the heart of Devon Valley. Close to Stellenbosch and a short drive from Cape Town, it still feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Soak up country life on this serene and evergreen estate and delight in their premium wines and fine, local, farm-fresh fare.
Contact +27 82 857 4289 or brenaissance@thefarmerscollection.co.za
Fancy a more casual picnic? There is an incredible selection of perfect picnics in the Stellenbosch Winelands – from the luxurious to the laidback and the romantic to the family friendly. Check out our top picks here.
