Stellenbosch, South Africa proves kids are never too young for Wine Country

The Cape Winelands might not sound like an ideal family holiday in South Africa, but on a recent visit to Stellenbosch Andrew Dent found the grape and great fun pair perfectly.

Even vineyards are adventures in Cape Wine Country

South Africa is a perfect family holiday destination for some winter sun, with October half term, Christmas or February half term all ideal times to visit for a break from the drab UK weather. And although flights are often expensive, you can more than make up for that with the current exchange rate.

Another beautiful day in Stellenbosch

Why Stellenbosch is a must-do on a family holiday in South Africa

Quite rightly, many South African family holidays start in Cape Town which is an easy overnight flight from the UK, has wonderful beaches and spectacular scenery. But my top tip is to spend a couple of nights nearby, in the historic town of Stellenbosch. ‘Stellies’, as it is known by the locals, is nestled in the heart of South Africa’s famous Cape Winelands about an hour’s drive from Cape Town. Of course, the wine is a big draw here, but it’s also a treasure trove of family-friendly adventures.

There are all sorts of accommodation options in Stellenbosch from holiday homes to boutique hotels. However, my recommendation would be to take advantage of that favourable exchange rate and book into the grand dame of Stellenbosch hotels, Lanzerac Hotel & Spa.

Vineyard views, Lanzerac Hotel & Spa, Stellenbosch

Stay a night or two at Lanzerac and you may never want to leave

Dating back to 1692, Lanzerac is just five minutes from the town centre and as you arrive at its handsome treelined drive, you know immediately you’re somewhere special. The setting is stunning, with the Helderberg Mountains in the background and their own vineyards coming right down to the edge of the property.

A place with this level of history, style and luxury doesn’t necessarily scream kid-friendly, yet it’s surprisingly so. Mainly due to the acres of grounds, multiple swimming pools and enormous rooms. There are great dining options for kids too, as well as inter-connecting rooms. Plus, as an added incentive, under-fives stay free, and older children at 75% off the adult rate. Also, if you want to slip off to the stunning spa, go wine-tasting or take a cellar tour, childcare is available to let you off parenting duty for a little.

Wine Country is definitely not just for grown ups

Discover child-friendly Wine Country wonders on a family holiday in South Africa

A family holiday in South Africa is a wonderful experience, it’s also easy and good value, and kids are welcomed and considered at every turn. So we highly recommend you add it to your list and make sure you don’t miss out on Stellenbosch and a stay at Lanzerac. Just be warned, you may never want to leave the hotel grounds. But if you do – and you should at least once or twice – I’ve put together my pick of the most family friendly local places and a few of the adventures you really want to try.

Grape Juice and eagles deliver natural highs at Spier Wine Farm

Kids can try grape juice tasting at Spier Wine Farm, along with visits to the Eagle Encounters wildlife rehabilitation, conservation, education and eco-tourism centre.

Add a university education to your family holiday in South Africa

Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden is beautiful, lush and just made for gentle family strolls in the sunshine. But, in a surprising twist that will delight older kids, they also feature thrilling mountain biking trails, as well as several opportunities for swimming in rock pools.

Make a date with market days in historic Stellenbosch

Wander along Dorp Street, soaking in the charming atmosphere of this historic part of town, and make a point of catching the authentic, local Stellenbosch markets such as. We particularly recommend the Root 44 Market and Blaauwklippen Family Market.

Warwick Wine Estate © Visit Stellenbosch

Try a non-traditional safari in South Africa

Vineyard Safaris at Warwick Wine Estate let families hop on an open-top safari vehicle for an adventure through the Big 5 vineyards. The entire adventure is fuelled by refreshing non-alcoholic drinks and plenty of healthy snacks to keep hungry kids happy.

Down and dirty in the Stellenbosch countryside

A family day out at Dirtopia Trail Centre is a fun way to get to know the remarkable Stellenbosch landscape a little better on a family day out mountain biking – or even trail running with older kids.

We love a cosy café on a family holiday in South Africa

Even an adventure as exciting as a family holiday in South Africa needs a touch-base moment that’s just about chilling and sugar boosts. The Thirsty Scarecrow café in Stellenbosch effortlessly wins kids over with its candy store slushies, milkshakes and children’s menu, not to mention a colourful playground with slides, swings, trampolines and rocking horses.

Wine tasting for you and Duck Parades for the kids

You’ll be fascinated to learn about the innovative sustainability practices at historic Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate. Although kids will definitely be most taken by the Indian Runner duck’s parade; these cuteys, alongside Dexter cattle, provide vital and all natural, pest control around the estate vineyards.

A family holiday in South Africa is a learning experience

Meet vervet monkeys, meerkats, giraffe, impala, zebra and so many more wild creatures at Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness Centre, where conservation is king and the family tours couldn’t be more fun.

Helderberg Farm, Stellenbosch

Even farming is a lot of fun in Wine Country

Spend a day at Helderberg Farm and enchant your kids with pony rides, tractor rides for kids, and the charming Tea Garden in the rustic old Cape Dutch style. And leave time for the farm’s hiking trails, paint ball, laser tag and go-karting, they’re all part of a day out here too.