Tokara Wine Estate
Modern hilltop winery with stunning vineyard views, art gallery, and chic restaurant. Known for award-winning wines and olive oil.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Tokara Wine Estate
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Modern hilltop winery with stunning vineyard views, art gallery, and chic restaurant. Known for award-winning wines and olive oil.
"Exceptional wine tasting with breathtaking views and modern architecture."
Book Tastings in Advance
Essential for weekends & peak season to secure your spot. :ticket:
Reserve Restaurant Tables
Highly recommended, especially for lunch and dinner. :knifeforkplate:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wine Tasting Experience
Tasting Room
Savor award-winning wines with expert guidance amidst breathtaking vineyard panoramas.
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Stunning Hilltop Views
Estate Grounds
Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Stellenbosch valley and vineyards from this modern architectural gem.
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Chic Restaurant Dining
Restaurant
Indulge in delicious meals with vineyard views, perfect for lunch or a special occasion.
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Art Gallery & Sculpture Garden
Gallery
Explore contemporary South African art and impressive sculptures scattered across the estate.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Consider Your Transport
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tastings in Advance
Essential for weekends & peak season to secure your spot. :ticket:
Reserve Restaurant Tables
Highly recommended, especially for lunch and dinner.
Kid-Friendly Playground
Great for families, with a dedicated play area for children.
Stunning Sunset Views
While beautiful, the sun sets on the opposite side of the hill. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tastings in Advance
Essential for weekends & peak season to secure your spot. :ticket:
Reserve Restaurant Tables
Highly recommended, especially for lunch and dinner.
Kid-Friendly Playground
Great for families, with a dedicated play area for children.
Stunning Sunset Views
While beautiful, the sun sets on the opposite side of the hill. :camerawithflash:
Premium Tasting Value
Consider the premium tasting for a more in-depth experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Tokara Wine Estate for its breathtaking views, modern architecture, and exceptional wine quality. The attentive service and the overall sophisticated ambiance make it a standout destination. Some note that the cheese platter could be more generous, and direct sunset views are not from the primary tasting areas.
"We went there for lunch. With 3 adults and 1 kid. Food was very delicious. The starters and mussels super nice. Pizza as well. Perfect with the lovely playground in the back. We also took a walk a enjoyed the spectacular view. We enjoyed a wine with our meal, for tasting you need to go the front of the estate."
Sabrina Laag
"Our visit to Tokara Wine Estate was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm hospitality and breathtaking views of the Stellenbosch valley. We chose to do the wine tasting, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip.
The tasting itself was expertly guided—our host provided a thoughtful and informative introduction to Tokara’s wines, covering everything from their winemaking philosophy to the specific characteristics of each varietal. We especially appreciated the insights into some of their recent awards, which added an extra layer of appreciation for what we were tasting. It’s clear that Tokara puts an incredible amount of care and passion into their wines.
Each wine was distinctive, elegant, and beautifully balanced. The range was impressive, from crisp whites to bold reds, and even a few limited editions. The tasting room staff were knowledgeable, attentive, and made us feel welcome without being overbearing. Even though we arrived very late and just made it in time for the wine tasting, the Santa’s was extremely accommodating with us never felt rushed.
The estate itself is stunning—modern architecture, perfectly manicured grounds, and panoramic views that make you want to stay all afternoon. It’s not just a wine tasting; it’s a full experience.
Highly recommend Tokara to anyone looking for a refined and memorable wine tasting experience in Stellenbosch."
Jiaun
"Beautiful estate! We came for a tasting without a reservation but none was needed since we came in the off season. Originally we thought the sunset would be good to view from here but it’s actually on the wrong side of a hill so the sun sets on the other side.
Regardless, we enjoyed the wines and our waiter was knowledgeable and great to talk to. Afterwards we got a glass of wine and walked around the estate and explored the vineyards at dusk."
Ryan Baney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tokara is about an hour's drive from Cape Town via the N2 and Helshoogte Pass. You can drive yourself, use a ride-sharing service, or join a guided wine tour that includes Stellenbosch. +1
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors at the estate.
While direct public transport is limited, some hop-on-hop-off bus tours from Cape Town include stops in the Constantia wine region, which is a starting point for exploring further afield.
The most scenic route is often via the Helshoogte Pass, offering beautiful views as you approach the estate.
The estate is generally well-maintained with modern architecture, but it's advisable to contact them directly regarding specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Booking is highly recommended, especially for weekends and during peak season, though walk-ins may be accommodated during quieter times.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the tasting room and restaurant are open daily. It's best to check their official website for the most current times.
Prices vary depending on the tasting selection. A premium tasting can be around R225, while a basic tasting might be R130.
Some sources mention a small entrance fee (e.g., R10), but this can vary. Wine tasting fees are separate.
Yes, you can visit the estate to enjoy the views, art gallery, and restaurant without necessarily booking a tasting.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The restaurant offers delicious lunch and dinner options, with dishes like starters, mussels, and pizzas being popular choices.
The cheese platter is described as being on the smaller side, but the restaurant offers more substantial dining options.
It's advisable to contact the restaurant directly to inquire about specific dietary options.
While not explicitly mentioned as a picnic spot, the estate's grounds and restaurant offer dining experiences.
Yes, the beautiful setting and delicious food make it a great choice for anniversaries and other celebrations.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic vineyard views, modern architecture, and the art installations offer numerous stunning photo opportunities.
While the views are spectacular, the sun sets on the opposite side of the hill, so it's not ideal for direct sunset shots from the tasting area.
Yes, exploring the estate and vineyards at dusk can provide beautiful photographic moments.
Tokara is known for its modern, chic, and aesthetically pleasing design, making it a popular spot for visually appealing content.
Generally, personal photography is allowed, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other guests and private areas.
🎫 👨👩👧 Family & Kids
Yes, Tokara is considered very family-friendly, with a dedicated playground for children.
The main attraction for kids is the playground, allowing them to have fun while adults enjoy their wine.
While children are welcome on the estate, wine tastings are typically for adults. The playground provides entertainment for them.
Yes, the restaurant is accommodating to families, and the playground is conveniently located nearby.
South Africa has many kid-friendly wineries, including Fairview, Franschhoek Cellar, and Hazendal Estate, among others.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
This allows parents to relax and enjoy their wine tasting or meal with peace of mind. The restaurant also offers kid-friendly menu options, making it easy to dine together. While the wine tasting is an adult-focused activity, the overall atmosphere at Tokara is welcoming to all ages. The stunning views and open spaces provide a pleasant environment for everyone. It's a great way to introduce children to the beauty of the Winelands while ensuring their entertainment needs are met.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The meticulously manicured grounds and the integrated art installations provide endless opportunities for creative shots. While the estate offers breathtaking views throughout the day, be aware that the sunset occurs on the opposite side of the hill, so direct sunset photography from the main tasting areas might not be ideal.
🥂 Wine Connoisseurs
The tasting room itself is designed for comfort and appreciation, offering panoramic views that enhance the sensory experience. Visitors often praise the attentive service and the educational aspect of the tastings, making it a truly memorable encounter with South African wine.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tokara Wine & Olive Experience
Their wine portfolio includes a range of varietals, from crisp Sauvignon Blancs to robust Cabernet Sauvignons and Bordeaux-style blends. The Reserve Tasting offers a more in-depth exploration of their top-tier wines, providing a deeper understanding of the estate's commitment to excellence.
Beyond the tasting room, Tokara boasts a sophisticated restaurant and an impressive art gallery featuring contemporary South African artists. The sculpture garden is also a notable feature, with art pieces integrated into the landscape, offering a unique blend of nature, art, and viticulture.
This holistic approach ensures that a visit to Tokara is more than just a wine tasting; it's a comprehensive cultural and gastronomic experience.Architectural Marvel and Artistic Flair
+1The estate is also a haven for art lovers. The Tokara Art Gallery showcases a curated collection of contemporary South African art, providing a cultural counterpoint to the viticultural focus. Visitors can wander through the gallery, admiring works that range from paintings and sculptures to mixed media.
The integration of art extends outdoors, with various sculptures strategically placed throughout the grounds, inviting guests to discover them during a leisurely stroll. This commitment to the arts elevates Tokara from a mere winery to a destination that engages multiple senses and interests. The overall aesthetic of Tokara is one of refined elegance and understated luxury. It’s a place where meticulous attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the landscaping and architecture to the presentation of the wine and food. This makes it a highly photogenic location, attracting visitors looking for both exceptional wine and a visually stimulating environment.
+1Family-Friendly Vineyard Escapes
The estate features a dedicated playground, providing a safe and engaging space for children to play while parents enjoy their wine tasting or a meal. This thoughtful amenity ensures that families can have a relaxed and enjoyable experience together. While children are welcome to explore the estate's beautiful grounds, the wine tasting experience itself is, of course, for adults. However, the presence of the playground and the generally accommodating atmosphere make it a practical choice for those traveling with younger ones. The restaurant also caters to families, with popular dishes like pizza and mussels that are often enjoyed by children.
Many visitors appreciate that Tokara offers a well-rounded experience that caters to both adults seeking a sophisticated wine tasting and families looking for a pleasant outing. The combination of stunning views, good food, and child-friendly facilities makes it a memorable stop for a diverse range of visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit