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The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, translated from Afrikaans as "Heaven and Earth," is a serene haven nestled behind the charming seaside town of Hermanus. Known for its breathtaking scenery—rolling vineyards, dramatic mountains, and the nearby ocean—it’s a favorite destination for wine enthusiasts. The proximity to the coast provides cool ocean breezes that create an ideal environment for growing premium grapes. For visitors seeking wine tastings, nature walks, and gourmet food, the valley’s wine farms offer a delightful escape. Here’s our pick of the top 10 wine farms you must visit.
1. Creation Wines
No trip to Hemel-en-Aarde is complete without a visit to Creation Wines, renowned for its unique wine-and-food pairings. The estate offers a variety of tasting experiences, including brunch pairings, small-plates pairings, and even a wine-and-chocolate pairing. Children are not left out either, with a surprise pairing designed especially for them. Whether you choose to sit on the terrace with views of the farm dam and Babylon Toren Mountain or explore the scenic trails on foot or bike, this estate provides a holistic experience for the entire family.
Opening Hours:Wine tasting and sales: Monday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Contact: 028 212 1107 | info@creationwines.com
Location: Hemel-en-Aarde Road, R320, Hermanus, Western Cape
2. Bouchard Finlayson Winery
Just a 10-minute drive from Hermanus, Bouchard Finlayson is a luxury estate known for its signature Pinot Noir and Missionvale Chardonnay. Visitors can explore the estate’s fynbos-covered hills via three marked walking trails before settling down for a grazing platter, filled with local cheeses, freshly baked bread, and seasonal preserves.
Opening Hours:Monday – Friday, 9am – 4.30pmSaturday & Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Contact: 028 312 3515 | info@bouchardfinlayson.co.za
Location: Hemel-en-Aarde Road, R320, Hermanus, Western Cape
3. Ataraxia Wines
Located at the highest elevation in the valley, Ataraxia Wines lives up to its name, meaning "a serene state of mind." The estate’s wines, produced with minimal interference, shine in their natural flavors. The unique tasting lounge, designed to reflect the architecture of the Overberg region, provides a peaceful setting for wine lovers. The R75 tasting fee is waived if you purchase wine, making it an excellent spot for a relaxed day out.
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 9am – 4pmSaturday, 10am – 4pm
Contact: info@ataraxiawines.co.za
Location: Skyfields Farm, Hemel-en-Aarde Road, R320, Hermanus, Western Cape
4. Hamilton Russell Vineyards
Established in 1975, Hamilton Russell Vineyards is set on a picturesque 170-hectare property. Known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the estate’s tasting room offers views of a tranquil lake surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can also buy homemade olive oil and fynbos honey from the farm shop.
Opening Hours:Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pmSaturday, 10am – 2pm
Contact: 028 312 3595 | info@hamiltonrussellvineyards.com
Location: Hemel-en-Aarde Road, R320, Hermanus, Western Cape
5. La Vierge
Perched high in the valley, La Vierge boasts spectacular views that stretch out to the ocean. The estate’s glass-walled tasting room offers uninterrupted vistas, perfect for sampling award-winning wines. The on-site restaurant serves a variety of delicious dishes, from pasta to lamb shank, which can be enjoyed on the outdoor patio.
Opening Hours:Tasting room: Monday – Sunday, 10am – 5pmRestaurant: Tuesday – Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Contact: 028 313 0130 | info@lavierge.co.za
Location: 12 Hemel-en-Aarde Valley Road, R320, Hermanus, Western Cape
6. Newton Johnson
Known for its modern South African cuisine and exquisite wine selection, Newton Johnson is a family-owned estate just 10 minutes from Hermanus. Visitors can enjoy scenic vineyard tours before indulging in a shared platter or a seasonal dish prepared by the estate's restaurant.
Opening Hours:Monday – Friday, 9am – 4pmSaturday, 10am – 2pm
Contact: 028 312 3862 | wine@newtonjohnson.com
Location: Hemel-en-Aarde Road, R320, Hermanus, Western Cape
7. Bosman Hermanus
Surrounded by fynbos-covered hills, Bosman Hermanus is home to the iconic Frame House, a modern wooden tasting room that offers views stretching to Stanford and Gansbaai. Visitors can also enjoy tapas, coffee, and scenic hikes through the estate’s trails.
Opening Hours:Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 5pmSaturday & Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Contact: 076 300 0819 | taste@bosmanhermanus.com
Location: De Bos Farm, Karwyderskraal Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Hermanus, Western Cape
8. Bartho Ecksteen
Founded in 2015, Bartho Ecksteen is a family-owned boutique wine farm known for its tranquil countryside ambiance. Visitors can stroll through its extensive gardens, indulge in a light meal at Maná Deli, and play a casual game of boules. Before leaving, stock up on homemade preserves and baked goods at the farm shop.
Opening Hours:Monday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Contact: 072 323 5060 | mana@hermanus.co.za
Location: Hemel-en-Aarde Road, R320, Hermanus, Western Cape
9. Spookfontein Wines
Tucked away on a sweeping slope, Spookfontein Wines offers dramatic views of the Overberg landscape. Visitors can enjoy farm-style dishes at the estate's restaurant or stay overnight in one of the charming cottages.
Opening Hours:Monday – Saturday, 10am – 4.30pmSunday & public holidays, 10am – 4pm
Contact: 028 125 0128 | james@spookfontein.co.za
Location: Spookfontein Farm, Hemel-en-Aarde Road, R320, Hermanus, Western Cape
10. Whalehaven
Owned by the Bottega family, Whalehaven is a boutique winery named after the bay that protects southern right whales. The winery is known for its handcrafted wines, including Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. Visitors can also explore the valley via a safari-style wine tour.
Opening Hours:Wednesday – Friday, 10am – 5pmSaturday & Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Contact: 028 316 1633 | experience@whalehaven.co.za
Location: R43, Hemel-en-Aarde Road, Hermanus, Western Cape
Hemel-en-Aarde Valley is a paradise for wine lovers. Whether you're drawn by its award-winning wines or the stunning natural beauty, each of these estates promises an unforgettable experience. Which wine farm are you most excited to visit?
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