Lourensford has been growing things since 1709, when Governor Willem Adriaan van der Stel established it as a fruit farm. Winemaking came back after Dr Christo Wiese bought the property in 1998. Today it's a working wine estate in the Helderberg mountains above Somerset West, with vineyards, orchards, fynbos, and big mountain and valley views.
Start in the Wine Sales & Tasting Room, open every day from 09:00 to 17:00 (closed on 25 December). The estate makes several ranges. River Garden is the accessible, fruit-forward one, and The Dome is named for the Helderberg's highest peak. There are also boutique Limited Release wines, Cap Classique and flagship bottles. Cellarmaster Hannes Nel believes in minimal interference in the cellar. Cellar tours are by appointment only, so book ahead if you'd like one.
If your timing works, don't miss the Lourensford Market. It runs on Friday evenings and Sundays, rain or shine, with free entry, food vendors, stalls and live music. Dogs on leashes are welcome. Times and line-ups can change, so check with the estate first.
For a sit-down meal, The Millhouse Kitchen is a casual neighbourhood restaurant. Around the estate you'll also find a specialty Coffee Roasting Company, Ginologist, the Wedgewood Emporium and East Cafe at Clay Hub.
There's plenty to do beyond the tasting glass: archery, clay pigeon shooting, sidecar safaris, horseback rides from Lourensford Stables, mountain biking, and a padel and pickleball club. Younger visitors can try Artjamming, Putt & Play or Total Ninja, and there are garden tours and art galleries for a slower pace.
Two house rules to know about: no outside food or drink, and no photoshoots. Hours and bookings differ from one activity to the next, so have a look at the Lourensford website before you head up.
