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.
RECENT BLOG POSTS
What is the most popular wine in South Africa?
Written by Clifford Roberts; Photography Johan Viljoen We’re a leading producer of wine in the world, but what is the most popular wine in South Africa? You’ll get many answers to this question. You’ll probably get more questions too. We think there’s only really one proper response you could possibly give when deciding on an …
A Very Shiraz Summer
Author & Photographer: Georgia East Just like sunscreen and soft serve, a proper braai is something that – for most South Africans – is synonymous with summer. Cooking outdoors and serving up dishes flavoured with smoke is how we all love to spend weekends. But when it comes to braai recipes – and especially those …
What makes Swartland rosé wines different?
Written by Clifford Roberts; Photographer: Johan Viljoen South Africa makes great rosé wine, but to make sense of the many options available it helps to consider them by region. Rosé wines from a particular area such as the Swartland, share overlapping characteristics. By knowing them you can make a better choice about good rosé wines …