Franschhoek Wine Tram & Stellenbosch Tour with Cape Town Pickup

Your unforgettable journey begins with a prompt 8:30 AM pick-up from your accommodation in Cape Town city centre or nearby areas. Relax in our luxury air-conditioned vehicle as we collect fellow travelers in order of proximity to ensure a smooth and comfortable start. As we travel along the scenic N2 highway, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Table Mountain, the vibrant City Bowl, and the stunning Atlantic coastline — perfect for capturing memorable photos even before reaching the Winelands! Our first destination is the charming and historic town of Stellenbosch, nestled in the heart of South Africa’s celebrated Cape Winelands. Note: Your exact pick-up time will be shared with you the day before via WhatsApp. Please ensure you have mobile data enabled or are available in your hotel lobby with Wi-Fi for seamless communication.

We begin our day in the beautiful town of Stellenbosch, located in South Africa’s renowned Winelands. As we travel along the N2 motorway, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Table Mountain and the Cape Flats. Our guide will share fascinating stories about the region’s rich history, its cultural heritage, and notable landmarks. Upon arrival, you’ll have about 45 minutes to explore Stellenbosch on foot. Stroll through streets lined with iconic Cape Dutch architecture, browse vibrant art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. Take a moment to soak in the town’s charming atmosphere and maybe grab a coffee or snack before we continue to the wine estates. Stellenbosch perfectly blends history, culture, world-class wines, and natural beauty, making it a must-see stop on our tour. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery and vibrant street life.

Next, we’ll visit the historic Lanzerac Wine Estate, one of South Africa’s oldest and most prestigious wine farms, established in 1692. Nestled beneath the breathtaking Jonkershoek Mountains, this estate blends stunning Cape Dutch architecture, lush gardens, and a working wine cellar. You’ll indulge in a premium tasting of five carefully selected Lanzerac wines, each expertly paired with artisan chocolates designed to complement the wine’s unique flavors. Our guide will share Lanzerac’s rich legacy — including being the first estate to bottle South Africa’s iconic Pinotage varietal. Wine tastings and chocolate pairing are at your own expense, typically ZAR 150–250 per person. Beautiful Cape Dutch architecture Provincial heritage manor house dating back to the 1830s Expert-guided wine and chocolate pairing experience

Next, we’ll take you to the stunning Delaire Graff Estate, perched atop Helshoogte Pass with panoramic views over Banhoek Valley. This luxurious estate features museum-quality African art, manicured gardens, and dramatic mountain scenery that captivates every visitor. Relax on the elegant wine terrace while enjoying a curated tasting of award-winning red and white wines. Tastings are at your own expense (approx. ZAR 150–250), with an optional cheese and wine pairing for about ZAR 250–400. You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase wines for export, with expert help to ensure safe and hassle-free worldwide shipping. This stop is a photographer’s dream and a must-see highlight of the Winelands, perfect for wine lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Stunning views & world-class estate Art, architecture, and nature combined Award-winning wines with impeccable service

Stop 4: Franschhoek – French Charm, Art Stroll & Lunch Break Duration: ±1h30 | Arrival: ~2:15 PM After our second wine tasting, we journey through the scenic Helshoogte Pass and the historic town of Pniel to reach Franschhoek—South Africa’s gourmet capital, rich in French heritage and surrounded by vineyard-covered mountains. You’ll enjoy 90 minutes to relax, explore, and enjoy lunch at your own pace. We recommend: Reuben’s – local cuisine (ZAR 300–500) Col’Cacchio – pizza & pasta (ZAR 120–250) Tuk Tuk Brewery – tacos & craft beer (ZAR 150–300) Le Petit Manoir – fine dining (ZAR 350–600) You can stroll the village’s boutique galleries, artisan chocolate studios, wine shops, and designer stores—perfect for souvenirs or a sweet indulgence.

After enjoying your lunch and free time exploring the charming village of Franschhoek — known for its rich French heritage, boutique shops, and mountain-framed vineyards — we proceed to the Franschhoek Wine Tram terminal for the next leg of your adventure. Your guide will hand over your pre-booked tram tickets and assist you in understanding the tram route and schedule. The tram offers a relaxed and scenic ride between wine estates, with each leg taking approximately 8–10 minutes. You’ll have the opportunity to hop off at two or possibly three wine farms, depending on timing and preferences. Choose from iconic estates such as Franschhoek Cellars, the elegant Grande Provence, and Rickety Bridge, where you can also enjoy a unique tractor ride from the tram to the tasting area. This experience blends the romance of rail travel with the indulgence of world-class wines — the perfect finale to a day in the Cape Winelands.

Rickety Bridge is Franschhoek’s first female-owned wine farm, known for its innovative spirit and warm hospitality. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a charming tractor ride from the tram to the tasting room, nestled among lush vineyards with stunning mountain views. Here, you can choose from several tasting options: Classic Wine Tasting: approx. R90–R120 per person Reserve Wine Tasting: approx. R150–R200 per person Rickety Bridge prides itself on producing vibrant, fruit-driven wines that reflect the terroir of the Franschhoek Valley. If you prefer, relax at Paulina’s Restaurant, where you can savour light meals, coffee, or a glass of wine while taking in panoramic valley views.

Franschhoek Cellars combines welcoming charm with a focus on artisan quality. Set amid beautiful vineyards, this estate offers traditional tastings and special pairings with Belgian chocolate or handmade cheeses. Their wines reflect careful craftsmanship and the terroir’s elegance. Approximate tasting fees range from R100 to R150 per person, depending on the experience chosen.

Stop At: Groot Drakenstein Prison (Victor Verster Prison) On our way back to Cape Town, we’ll stop for about 10 minutes at Groot Drakenstein Prison, where Nelson Mandela spent the last two years of his 27-year imprisonment. Unlike earlier high-security prisons, this one served as a transitional facility for political prisoners nearing release. Here, you’ll have the chance to take photos beside the iconic life-size bronze statue of Mandela, standing with his fist raised — symbolizing hope, dignity, and freedom. It marks the very spot where he walked free on 11 February 1990. Your guide will briefly share the history and purpose of the prison, its significance in the struggle against apartheid, and the emotional impact of Mandela’s release. We then continue the approximately 1 hour and 15-minute drive back to Cape Town, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, bringing a powerful and inspiring end to your day.

Drop off will be at your accommodation in Cape Town after the tour.