As someone who loves both wine and food, I recently had the opportunity to join the Neighbourgood Experience’s guided Wine & Dine tour through the Franschhoek Valley, and by no surprise, it turned out to be one of my travel highlights in South Africa. Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Franschhoek offers so much more than just beautiful views - it's a destination steeped in history, world-class wines, and farm-fresh food. Here’s a personal account of the unforgettable experience I had, and the lifelong memories we all made.

Walking Through History

The very start of the day was a promise of the exceptional experiences that lay ahead of us on the day. We set off from Neighbourgood De Wet, the van fully loaded with new friends and our exceptional guide, Mandla Bula. We started the day by visiting the beautiful Franschhoek Monument, where our guide enthusiastically shared some of the fascinating history surrounding this overarching area of the Western Cape.

A Taste of the Franschhoek Valley

The day continued on with a drive through the valley, where we were surrounded by stunning vineyards as far as the eye could see. Our first stop was a charming wine farm known for its rich reds and crisp whites. Walking into the tasting room felt like stepping into a sanctuary of flavors. Each glass was so unique - whether it was a bold Cabernet or a light, fragrant Chenin Blanc, the wines perfectly captured the spirit of this region

Wine and Food Pairings Like No Other

One of the highlights of the day was the exquisite wine and food pairings. At each farm we visited we weren’t just tasting the wines; we were also treated to tasters and food pairings specifically designed to complement the flavors of each pour. From artisanal cheeses to locally sourced ingredients, every bite brought out the best in the wines. It wasn’t just a tasting - it was an experience of how wine and food can elevate one another, something I personally take great interest in. The wine was flowing and the entire group, who started out as strangers, were already socializing like lifelong friends.

Connection to tradition

What made the tour even more special was the connection to history. We visited some of the oldest wine farms in South Africa, with vineyards that have been producing wine for centuries. As we tasted each wine, our guides shared stories of the pioneers who first planted them and how their legacy continues today. I felt like I was stepping back in time, walking on the same soil that generations of winemakers had tended to, making each glass feel that much more unique and special.

Babylonstoren - A Behind-the-Scenes Treasure

The crown jewel of the tour, though, was Babylonstoren. I had heard about this renowned estate before, but experiencing it firsthand with our guide exceeded all expectations. We were taken on an extensive cellar tour, where we learned the art of winemaking from the experts themselves. Seeing the process up close — from the grape harvest, to the processing to the final bottling — was fascinating.

But, of course, what really stood out was the farm-to-table cellar tasting experience. Throughout our time at Babylonstoren, we learned about their world-renowned gardens and orchards, and sustainable farming methods, and later, we had the chance to taste the freshest produce, straight from the farm. The flavours were so pure and vibrant, and it felt incredible to know exactly where the food came from and how it was grown. This, paired with the incredible range of wines we enjoyed was the cherry on top of one of the experiences I have had in Franschhoek.

A Must-Do for Wine Lovers

Looking back on the experience, I can honestly say that this tour was more than just a typical wine tasting — it was an authentic journey through South Africa’s rich winemaking history, paired with exceptional food and hospitality. If you’re a wine lover or a foodie like me, this experience is a must-do when visiting Franschhoek. Trust me, it’s something you’ll remember long after the final sip.

Discovering the Magic of Franschhoek: A Guided Wine and Culinary Journey