The Elgin Valley, a mere hours drive from Cape Town, is the ideal destination for a relaxing weekend getaway. If you have visited the area before you may be familiar with South Hill Vineyards; if not you are missing out! As well as producing fantastic, cool-climate wines, South Hill Wine Farm offers luxury guest accommodation.
South Hill Boutique Wine Farm
I have visited South Hill Boutique Wine Farm on a few occasions for wine tasting and lunch, but this was my first stay on the farm. Elgin Valley is not only synonymous with producing top, cool-climate wines but also being a top romantic wedding destination. There are also a host of outdoor adventures on offer in the area.
With a background in hotels, restaurants and property development, as well as a passion for wine, the King family decided to create this contemporary boutique wine farm, in Elgin.
South Hill Accommodation
South Hill guest accommodation options include the main Guest House, the Pumphouse and a Houseboat.
The Guest House
The Guest House boasts six en-suite bedrooms, sleeping a total of 12 adults. It is well-appointed and has a spacious open-plan living, dining and kitchen area. On colder days the comfortable lounge with DSTV and fireplace is the perfect place to unwind.
French doors open up onto a wrap-around patio overlooking the indigenous gardens and vineyards. The outdoor entertainment space offers a 15m swimming pool and easy al fresco dining options with a braai and pizza oven.
The Pumphouse Honey Moon Cottage
Its secluded and intimate location, overlooking the farm dam, make the one-bedroom Pumphouse Cottage the perfect romantic escape. The Cottage contains a kitchenette, small lounge, and an indoor pot belly fireplace for cooler evenings. There is also a private courtyard with a Jacuzzi, hammock and braai facilities.
“Stokies Ark” Houseboat
“Stokies Ark”, originally a Langebaan houseboat, has been newly restored in a chic Scandi-style. The houseboat is perfect for a family holiday, a getaway with friends or a romantic weekend. The houseboat, permanently moored on the banks of the farms largest dam, provides a unique location with gorgeous views.
Stokies Ark houseboat can accommodate 6 adults or 4 adults and 4 kids. The first and second cabins have queen-sized beds and the third, two single bunk beds.
The sunny, open-plan kitchen-lounge-dining area has an indoor fireplace, 4 plate gas stove and oven, as well as a fridge and freezer. A 5Kw inverter solar system with back-up battery power is great for sustainable, off-the-grid living. There is a compact washroom which has a hot-water shower and basin, with a separate toilet and basin.
Spend your day lazing on the deck or on the rooftop, soaking up the sun. The on-land braai facility and dining area are perfect for festive alfresco lunches or dinners. If you need to expend some energy, a run or walk on the farm will do wonders to clear the cobwebs or better yet make use of one of the Kayaks available.
Restaurant and Art Gallery
When staying at South Hill Wine Farm, a must-do is breakfast or lunch at their restaurant, which also doubles as an art gallery. It is one of my favourite spots for long, lazy lunches paired with a few glasses {or bottles} of their fantastic cool-climate wine.
French doors open onto a spacious lawn area, which is great for kids to run and play while you sip your wine. The menu includes delicious country platters, as well as tapas, accompanied by homemade bread and relishes.
The picturesque Winelands location combined with warm hospitality and country-style luxury makes for a fantastic, memorable experience.
Things to Do
One of my top things to do in the area is wine tasting. Start off at South Hill and then venture out to a few of the fantastic estates in the valley.
Elgin is an outdoor enthusiasts haven, and one of my favourite things to do is to take leisurely walks or scenic hikes. The Green or Blue Mountain Trails are great for slackpacking if you are spending some time in the valley.
You can also pop into a few of the local farmstalls, markets and restaurants including my favourite Peregrine, as well as Orchard Farm Stall or Houw Hoek.
An outing I can highly recommend is a visit to the Elgin Railway Market, a steampunk, industrial marvel, inspired by the creative mind and initiative of Roger Orpen.
The converted old apple warehouse boasts a selection of local food vendors ranging from curries and pizzas to ribs and burgers. In addition fresh juices and sweet treats, there is a great selection of wines and beers on offer.
Closing Thoughts
In conclusion, a trip to South Hill is a must! If you need a bit of a nudge – firstly they have a wonderful variety of accommodation on offer, secondly, the staff are professional and welcoming and last but not least they produce fantastic cool-climate wine!
For a fun road trip adventure, which includes South Hill, you can book the Wine and Whales 7-day Tour Package, via Cape Country Routes.
Location and Contact Details
Location: 113 Elgin Valley Road, Elgin Grabouw, 7180, Overberg, Western Cape, South Africa.
Contact Details: Telephone + 27 21 844 0888 or After Hours + 27 73 557 6273. Email [email protected].
Images
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Disclosure & Disclaimer
My trip was hosted by Cape Country Routes and South Hill Wine Farm, which included complimentary accommodation, meals and drinks. All information and rates are deemed accurate at the time of publication.
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