Doolhof Wine Estate: Picturesque Picnics, Wine-Tasting + Luxe Stays

Fields with frolicking horses, vineyards growing lush against the slopes, a mountain range thick with forest, and a river running through the valley – the setting of the centuries-old Doolhof Wine Estate simply can’t get any more picturesque.

Spectacular scenery aside, there’s so much to do here – an afternoon tasting of the estate’s award-winning wines for one, riverside picnics, strolls along the river, or take to the hills on your mountain bike.

And, should you feel like lingering a little longer, the farm has two amazing accommodation options. Here’s why Doolhof should be on your to-visit list for a leisurely day or two…

Picnic perfect

Come for a picnic – you don’t have to pack a thing! Simply order a basket the day before, pick it up when you arrive, and stroll down to the river and relax at one of the shaded spots under a canopy of trees.

You’ll be delighted by the goodies inside your basket: a selection of fresh-cut fruit, nuts, cheese and biscuits, melt-in-the-mouth meatballs wrapped in bacon, and super-soft beef kebabs. Vegetarians are also catered for with some tasty options, such as pesto-and-fresh-tomato pasta salad. And for dessert, expect the most deliciously fresh carrot cupcakes ever.
Good to know  A 50% deposit is required to secure a weekend picnic basket. Doolhof wines of your choice are available at an additional cost.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 9am – 4pm
Cost From R350 (basket for two)

Explore more

For those who want to explore the farm further, take a relaxed stroll along the river bank with the entire family. A more strenuous walk among the vineyards is also an option, or attempt to summit Groenberg mountain!

Mountain bikers will love all the trail options – there’s something for beginners all the way up to Cape Epic-level riders.

Divine wines

Surrounded by green lawns and views of the vineyards, the terrace outside the tasting room is a beautiful place to relax and savour the farm’s selection of award-winning wines. Thanks to its microclimate conditions and soil types, and the late sunrise and early sunsets that allow for a longer ripening process, Doolhof’s unique location is perfect for growing grapes. Varietals include malbec, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, pinotage, cabernet Franc, merlot, and cabernet sauvignon.

Feeling peckish? Pair your wine with a delectable cheese platter.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 08.30am – 4pm
Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Sunday, 10am  – 3pm
Public Holidays, 10am – 4pm (Closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day, Day of Goodwill, and New Year’s Day)
Cost FromR50 (5 wines)

Stay a while…

If you aren’t quite ready to leave behind the tranquillity of farm life, why not spend the night in luxurious comfort? The five-star The Doolhof Country House, an elegantly restored Cape Dutch Manor House, offers six individually designed rooms and suites inside and a free-standing thatched cottage – perfect for a romantic getaway. A library, tea lounge with a fireplace, grand verandah, and an outdoor pool and spa room are also part of the luxury offering.
Cost From R4 990 per room per night (includes welcoming drink, breakfast and wine tasting)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Glamp it up

You can also book the family into one of Africamp’s six fully furnished self-catering glamping tents. With views of the mountains and vineyards, and the soothing sound of the Kromme river trickling by, the five-sleeper tents are equipped with fireplaces and aircons to ensure comfort all year round. On chilly evenings, we highly recommend soaking in your private wood-fired hot tub and gazing at the star-filled country sky
Cost From R1 740 per tent per night
Check Availability + Book Direct

Contact 021 873 6911, wine@doolhof.com
Where to find it Bovlei Road, Wellington, Western Cape

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