Page 26 - WINE DINE AND TRAVEL FALL 2020 South Africa

Our Uber (an ideal way to get around if you
don’t drive British-style on the left) quickly left
behind freeways for two-lane highways through
verdant valleys crowned by jagged granite peaks.
More than 300 wineries thrive here in the moder-
ate Mediterranean climate cooled by breezes from
the Atlantic and Indian oceans, but they aren’t
lined up, Napa Valley-like, on the main roads, pre-
serving an appealing farm-country vibe.
Our arrival in February coincided with harvest -
and some of the area’s warmest weather. From our
first base, the charming Plumwood Inn, we would
explore Franschhoek and neighboring Stellen-
bosch, historic small towns considered by many to
be South Africa’s wine and culinary capitals. Some
of the country’s top 100 restaurants delight gour-
mands here, and their presence sparks inspired
dining all around, as we discovered during our
stay.
For Valentine’s weekend, we moved to the bou-
tique Steenberg Hotel and Spa, a history-rich re-
treat on the grounds of the Cape’s first farm.
Surrounded by vines and home to its own winery
and two top-rated restaurants, Steenberg is nes-
tled in the heart of Constantia where top-rated
vintners and restaurateurs draw daytrippers from
Cape Town as well as knowing visitors from across
the globe.
During our stay there, romance was in the air. At
lunch one day, gazing out at the garden, we
watched a man fall on one knee to propose. At a
nearby table, another couple hugged and kissed as
they shared champagne toasts with friends. Bub-
bles - one of the hallmarks of Steenberg Winery -
spread joy everywhere.
More toasts - along with chocolates and rose
petals - were to come. By the end of our
Winelands stay, we were totally smitten. You’ll
likely be too as you follow our footsteps through
this bewitching place.

26 WINE DINE & TRAVEL MAGAZINE 2020