South African wine tourism accounts for an important and pleasurable amount of all tourism in the country. South Africa's winemaking history is rich with lore and dates back to 1652, when wine was produced to prevent scurvy on merchant ships. Winemaking has come a long way in South Africa since then, and tourists love to visit the lush Winelands not far from Cape Town and sample the wonderful wines, sherries, ports, and brandies produced there.
Stellenbosch, in the heart of the Winelands, is the second oldest city in South Africa and is only a thirty minute drive from Cape Town. Stellenbosch is full of old buildings and history, and is where many of the Wineland tours begin. The Stellenbosch Wine Route office is on Market street in Stellenbosch, and will provide all the information the self-touring traveler needs to navigate wine country. Of course, guided tours are available too.
On to towns like Franschoek, and Paarl, where French expatriates settled after being driven out of France in the seventeenth century because they were Protestants. The French settlers brought their winemaking skills to South Africa, improving on what was already there. Throughout the Winelands, you will find quaint Bed and Breakfasts, or self-catering quarters in which to stay. South African wine tourism is designed for the free at heart.
South African Wine Tourism on Your Agenda
Maybe you have toured Napa Valley, or the French countryside. Maybe you have been to Italy or Chile and toured vineyards there. Maybe you have never set foot in a vineyard before. Either way, if you love wine or history or beautiful landscapes, you will love the Winelands of South Africa. Go on the Internet and see how to experience South African wine tourism firsthand.
Read Next 5 Articles
South African Game Lodges
South African Travel Information
Accommodation South Africa
Cape Town Accommodation
Cape Town Villas