The Cape Winelands invite you to adventure among vineyards, mountains, and rivers, all set against some of South Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes. From galloping through rolling vineyards and cycling scenic mountain trails to paddling calm rivers and soaring above the valleys in a hot air balloon, every day offers something new. This 7-day itinerary blends adrenaline with discovery, taking you through bustling towns, historic villages, and quiet corners off the beaten track, so you can experience the full diversity of the Winelands — nature, culture, wine tourism, heritage, and unforgettable adventure all in one journey.
📍 Stellenbosch, Jonkershoek Nature Reserve
🚴♀️ Activities on offer: Mountain biking, hiking, trail running, rock climbing, hot air balloon rides, vineyard safaris
Kick off your Winelands adventure in historic Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa. Cycle vineyard trails or mountain routes, hike Jonkershoek’s scenic paths, or test your climbing skills on nearby rock faces.
💡 Explore: Explore Stellenbosch’s Cape Dutch architecture, boutique shops, art galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants.
🏡 Stayover: Stellenbosch guesthouse or vineyard lodge
📍Franschhoek Valley
🎈 Activities on offer:Hot air balloon rides, mountain biking, hiking, trail running, vineyard safaris
Take to the skies with a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Franschhoek, or explore valley trails on foot or bike. Surrounding hills offer stunning vineyard and mountain panoramas.
💡 Explore more: Wander Franschhoek’s village streets, tasting rooms, wine tourism experiences and artisanal eateries.
🏨 Stayover: Franschhoek boutique hotel or vineyard accommodation
📍 Paarl, Wellington & surrounding vineyards
🏇🏼 Activities on offer: Horse riding, vineyard cycling, trail running, hiking
Gallop through vineyards and rolling hills on horseback or tackle cycling routes for a mix of challenge and scenic reward. Trails in Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve offer hiking options with sweeping valley views.
💡 Explore more: Discover Drakenstein wine estates, craft breweries, and the Afrikaans Language Monument.
🏡 Stayover: Paarl vineyard lodges or guesthouse
📍 Breede River Valley, Rawsonville, Worcester
🛶 Activities on offer:Canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, birding
Paddle along the Breede River and explore the valley by water or trail. Rolling vineyards and mountains create perfect backdrops for biking, hiking, and photography.
💡 Explore more: Sample local fruit orchards, wine farms, and small-town heritage spots.
🏞️ Stayover: Breede River Valley guesthouse or riverside lodge
📍 Robertson Wine Valley, McGregor Village & Montagu Mountains
🏃♀️ Activities on offer: Trail running, mountain biking, hiking, horse riding, vineyard cycling, vineyard safaris
Explore the heart of the central Winelands through a mix of valleys, vineyards, and historic villages. Ride or hike through Robertson’s expansive vineyards, meander through the charming village of McGregor with its colourful streets and mountain backdrop, and venture into Montagu’s surrounding hills for more challenging trails and panoramic views. Horse riding through vineyards adds a unique perspective on this scenic region.
💡 Explore more: Discover boutique wineries, historic farms, artisan shops, and Montagu’s natural hot springs.
🛖 Stayover: Robertson, McGregor, or Montagu guesthouses or vineyard lodge
📍 Ceres Valley, Wolseley Hills & Tulbagh Mountains
🐦⬛ Activities on offer: Hiking, mountain biking, trail running, canoeing, birding, ziplining
Venture into the northern Winelands for crisp mountain air and open landscapes. Trails in Ceres and Tulbagh offer excellent hiking and biking, while rivers provide canoeing opportunities for a refreshing change of pace.
💡 Explore more: Explore local fruit farms, historic town centres, and seasonal fruit-picking experiences.
🏡 Stayover: Ceres or Tulbagh guesthouse or farmstay
📍 Touwsrivier, Klein Karoo edge
🌌 Activities on offer: Hiking, trail running, mountain biking, canoeing, wildlife viewing, stargazing
Finish your adventure in the quieter outskirts of the Winelands. Trails and river paths offer peaceful hiking and biking, while canoeing on local waterways lets you end your journey on the water.
💡 Explore more: Discover small-scale farms, historic Karoo architecture, game viewing and enjoy a relaxed country-style meal before departure.
🛖 Stayover: Touwsrivier area guesthouse or farmstay
*Please note: Entry fees apply for day visits at wine estates and nature reserves
Discover more adventures in the Western Cape and find an adventure operator: https://101adventures.co.za/
