Beyond wine, discover SWARTLAND CULTURE – where you're free to kick off your shoes.
Rugged and raw, the region is deep-rooted, untamed and unapologetic of spirit. Its wide horizon stretches ocean-to-mountain across extreme diversity.
The Swartland is an ever-changing land of contrast. Characterised by an austere name - directly translated from Afrikaans as 'blackland' – the region is seasonally transformed most memorably to magnificent undulating hills of green. The landscape is dominated by sprawling fields of grain, thriving orchards and vineyards dotted with islands of wilderness and quaint farm villages.
Here is the invitation to discover back-roads that echo through the climate and geography as much in its produce as the tenacity of its communities. Here is the opportunity for the visitor to be immersed in neighbourhoods that may be down-to-earth, but are renowned for their uncompromising expression through wine and food, art, language and way of life.
This is the soul of the Swartland: a sincere, independent people in unique country.
Be enchanted by a place that's home to some of the country's oldest vines; where off-the-beaten-tracks reveal prized wine and olive farms; where it's not uncommon to be welcomed at first greeting by farm owners themselves, who work the land too.
In the Swartland simplicity and honesty are hallmarks, along with enticement to explore. And there are many experiences to be had, whether you seek sophisticated fine dining or a remote, no-frills hiking trail; to race a bike along a farm track or explore a quiet art gallery; to swim in a farm dam or strike out to meet the winemakers behind cutting-edge brands.
Less than an hour's drive from Cape Town, the region offers authenticity and space to breathe. It's not a place you choose, but a place of tranquillity that chooses you.
The Swartland Wine & Olive Route is more than just a map; it is a laid-back state of mind that will reset your compass. No shoes required.
WINE
The Swartland has become known internationally as the South African wine region with a difference. It could be argued that some of the most innovative wines are produced here.
OLIVES
In this little Mediterranean corner of the world, orchards and vineyards carpet the slopes and olive groves nestle around unexpected corners. Some of the finest olive oils in South Africa are produced in the Swartland.
EXPLORE
It’s close enough to get to, yet it’s a perfect place to get away from it all. Each producer on the Swartland Wine & Olive Route offers guests a uniquely different experience.
RECENT BLOG POSTS
Many of SA’s oldest vines are to be found in the Swartland
Written by: Clifford Roberts, Photography by Johan Viljoen The Swartland is renowned as a champion of old vine wines. It is home to many of the oldest commercial vineyards in South Africa. Getting down to the brass tacks of old vine heritage is tricky, though. As is the case everywhere, the facts of who owns […]
Swartland: champion of natural wine
Written by: Clifford Roberts; Photographer: Johan Viljoen The concept of “natural” wine is ancient, but for most novice wine drinkers, it remains a mystery. Swartland producers are among the most outspoken on the category, which makes a visit to the region an ideal place to learn more. Natural wine refers to a philosophy and a […]
What is a wine blend ?
Written by Clifford Roberts; Photographer Johan Viljoen Wine marketers often talk about blending, but what is a blend? It’s generally understood to refer to the use of different grape varieties for the compilation of a wine. Blending is, however, much more than that and is used in many ways – even in the making of […]