A plethora of pleasurable pursuits for the whole family.
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 – Friday, 8.30am – 4pm
Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Sunday, 10am – 3pm
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 and meat platter, or go for a light lunch from the newly installed pizza oven.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 08.30am – 4pm
Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Sunday, 10am – 3pm
Public Holidays, 10am – 5pm
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, 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 FromR1 890 per person sharing per night
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 390 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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