Franschhoek Wine Tram & Stellenbosch Town

After departing your Cape Town lodging, travel along the N2 highway, crossing the Cape Flats en route to Stellenbosch’s mountain setting. As you drive, your guide will highlight noteworthy sights. Upon arrival, stretch your legs on a walking exploration of this cozy university town, renowned for its centuries-old Cape Dutch architecture, leafy boulevards, and historic water canals. This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a quick coffee and soak up the lively atmosphere before heading to your first tasting of the day.

Next, visit Lanzerac Wine Estate for a delightful chocolate and wine pairing. Established on land at the foot of the Jonkershoek Mountains, Lanzerac is revered for its classic Cape Dutch manor house dating back to the 1830s and for being the site where Pinotage was first bottled. Savour the estate’s unique wines as you take in the heritage-rich ambiance.

Journey along the winding Helshoogte Pass to the sleek, contemporary Tokara Wine Estate. Embraced by rows of vineyards and olive groves that thrive in fertile soils, Tokara offers a stunning view extending all the way to Table Mountain. Sample a selection of five wines, potentially including their acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon, while learning about the estate’s winemaking philosophy. If time allows, you can also try their olive oils or opt for a cheese platter.

Continue through the historic community of Pniel on your way to the valley town of Franschhoek - so named by the French settlers who planted vineyards here in the late 17th century. Encircled by mountains and meticulously cultivated vines, Franschhoek combines natural beauty with refined hospitality, exemplified by the art-filled Leeu Estate. Take a break for lunch and explore the delightful shops before your next tasting adventure.

After lunch, head to the Franschhoek Tram terminal to embark on your on-tram tasting tour. The tram runs approximately every eight minutes between farms, and you’ll be able to hop off at two wineries (or potentially three, if time permits). Enjoy the distinct character of each stop at your own pace.

One possible tram stop is the storied Rickety Bridge, one of the first female-owned estates in Franschhoek. A comfy tractor shuttle will take you from the tram drop-off to the tasting room. Sip on any of the available options or simply relax at Paulina’s Restaurant for a snack, coffee, or glass of wine, all while admiring the vineyards set against the majestic mountains.

Another tram option is Franschhoek Cellar, offering an enticing array of wine and cheese or handmade Belgian chocolate pairings. Produced locally in this town, these chocolates and wines perfectly showcase local flavours. Should you wish to walk and stretch your legs afterward - the tram station is a short stroll away to rejoin your guide and fellow travellers.

On the return trip to Cape Town, you’ll pass the prison where Nelson Mandela spent the final two years of his 27-year confinement. A life-sized bronze statue of Mandela stands with a raised fist, symbolising strength and resilience. Hear a brief account of his release and the prison’s history from your guide before heading back your Cape Town hotel for drop-off.