Boschendal
Historic wine estate offering gourmet picnics, wine tasting, vibrant markets, and family fun amidst breathtaking scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Buzzing night market atmosphere
Boschendal
Best Time
Buzzing night market atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic wine estate offering gourmet picnics, wine tasting, vibrant markets, and family fun amidst breathtaking scenery.
"One of the most stunning wine estates I have ever been to."
🎯 Book Friday Market Entry
Entry is free but bookings are essential! Limited walk-ins available.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The estate is large; comfortable footwear is key for exploring gardens and markets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Friday Night Market
The Werf Area
Vibrant summer evenings with live music, artisanal crafts, and delicious farm-fresh food stalls.
+1
Picnics & Wine Tasting
Various locations across the estate
Enjoy gourmet picnics amidst stunning vineyards or indulge in curated wine tastings with knowledgeable hosts.
Citrus Festival (July)
Estate grounds
A vibrant celebration of citrus with family-friendly activities and a kaleidoscope of colors.
Tree House Holiday Programme
Near the farm shop
Magical, themed days for children with dedicated staff, allowing parents to explore the estate.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Markets & Dining
Embrace the Estate's Scale
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Friday Market Entry
Entry is free but bookings are essential! Limited walk-ins available.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The estate is large; comfortable footwear is key for exploring gardens and markets.
🧀 Indulge in the Cheese Board
Don't miss the highly recommended cheese board for a delicious treat.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Excellent playground and holiday programs available for children.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Friday Market Entry
Entry is free but bookings are essential! Limited walk-ins available.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The estate is large; comfortable footwear is key for exploring gardens and markets.
🧀 Indulge in the Cheese Board
Don't miss the highly recommended cheese board for a delicious treat.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Excellent playground and holiday programs available for children.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
During busy events, parking might require some patience. Arrive early if possible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Boschendal is widely praised for its stunning beauty, excellent wine and food, and family-friendly atmosphere, especially the vibrant Friday Night Market. However, some visitors find the restaurant and shop prices high, and navigation during events can be confusing. A few have experienced disappointing service or limited food options during specific festivals.
"Our children (aged 8 and 4) spent 3.5 days enjoying the Tree house holiday programme and it was absolutely magical! The programme is designed and run by a wonderfully personable & experienced school teacher, Andrea, and all staff members were so warm and dedicated. The kids ran in each day desperate to get started and built fantastic relationships throughout the week. Each day was themed, but tailored to the individual children, their interests and needs. The setting is perfect for parents wishing to enjoy everything that Boschendal has to offer (shout out to the excellent coffee stand at the farm shop) but this offers the opportunity to explore more of Stellenbosch & Franschhoek knowing your kids are having even more fun than you!"
Anna Merren
"Had the breakfast wine tasting and the experience was superb! Christiaan was top tier in providing us the best tasting experience. With multiple additional tastings outside of the 4 that came with the experience. The entire property was beyond beautiful and everyone we came across was beyond lovely. The property was also very historical and we overall had an amazing time. I would definitely come back and have this place be my main base as I explore the beautiful region."
Sara Wilson
"1st time here to boschendal.A very beautiful and family friendly estate.
They only get 4 stars for me as the restaurant and farmer shop are not priced for locals but more tourists or upper middle
class. Very expensive! The restaurant was fully booked but the prices on the menu didn't make us stick around. We settled for delicious lamb pies and croissants from the deli which were excellent!
My son enjoyed the playground by the tree house and beautiful gardens."
Adam Snyman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boschendal is located between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. The easiest way to get there is by car, approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Cape Town. Alternatively, you can arrange a private transfer or consider joining a wine tour that includes Boschendal.
While Boschendal is a prominent wine estate in the region, it is not directly on the standard Franschhoek Wine Tram routes. You would typically need to arrange separate transport from the tram stops to reach Boschendal.
Boschendal offers parking, but it can become limited during popular events like the Friday Night Markets. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
Public transport options directly to Boschendal are very limited. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services/tours is the most practical way to visit.
Absolutely! Boschendal is a perfect destination for a day trip from Cape Town, offering a variety of activities from wine tasting to exploring the gardens and enjoying a meal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, bookings are essential for the Friday Night Market, even though entry is free. This helps manage numbers and ensure a good experience. Limited walk-in tickets may be available on the day.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and specific activities. The Friday Night Markets typically run from 6 PM to 9 PM. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
Entry to the estate grounds is generally free, but specific activities like wine tastings, picnics, and the Friday Night Market may have associated costs or require bookings.
For popular events like the Friday Night Market, booking in advance is highly recommended. While a limited number of walk-in tickets might be available, it's not guaranteed.
Yes, Boschendal hosts various events throughout the year, including the popular Friday Night Markets during summer and the Citrus Festival in July.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Boschendal offers a range of activities including wine tasting, gourmet picnics, exploring beautiful gardens, visiting the farm shop and deli, enjoying the Friday Night Market, and participating in seasonal festivals.
Absolutely! Boschendal is very family-friendly, with a playground, the Tree House Holiday Programme, and ample space for children to explore. The Friday Night Market is also designed to be a relaxed environment for families.
The gardens at Boschendal are renowned for their beauty and historical significance. They are meticulously maintained and offer a serene environment for a leisurely stroll.
Yes, Boschendal offers various wine tasting experiences, often paired with food like cheese boards or even breakfast. It's a great way to sample their award-winning wines.
Wi-Fi availability can vary across the estate. While some areas might offer it, it's best not to rely on it for critical tasks and to enjoy the natural surroundings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Boschendal has a restaurant and a farm shop/deli. The restaurant offers a more formal dining experience, while the deli provides delicious pies, croissants, and other treats. The Friday Night Market also features diverse food stalls.
Some visitors find the restaurant and farm shop prices to be on the higher side, geared more towards tourists or an upper-middle-class budget. However, the quality of the food, like the lamb pies and croissants, is highly praised.
Yes, Boschendal is famous for its gourmet picnics. You can pre-book a picnic basket filled with delicious treats to enjoy amidst the beautiful estate grounds.
The Friday Night Market offers a wide variety of food choices from different stalls, catering to diverse tastes. It's a great place to sample local flavors and enjoy a casual meal.
Yes, Boschendal offers breakfast options, including special breakfast wine tastings, providing a delightful start to your day on the estate.
📸 📸 Photography
The vineyards, historic buildings, manicured gardens, and mountain backdrops offer stunning photographic opportunities. The Friday Night Market, with its fairy lights, is also very picturesque.
With its beautiful scenery, historic charm, and award-winning wines, Boschendal is a highly sought-after location for wedding photography.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with Boschendal management directly before flying a drone on the property to ensure compliance with their regulations.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the gardens and shaded areas are still great.
During the Citrus Festival, the vibrant colors of the citrus fruits and the festive atmosphere provide unique and colorful photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Pack comfortable shoes for exploring the vast grounds, and consider bringing a stroller or carrier for younger children, as the estate is quite spread out.
🥂 Couples and Romantic Getaways
The Friday Night Market provides a charming evening atmosphere with live music and delicious food, perfect for a date night. +1Consider booking a table at the estate restaurant for a more intimate dining experience, or simply wander through the beautiful gardens hand-in-hand. The historical charm and natural beauty create a truly memorable backdrop.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
+1 Opting for deli items like pies and croissants from the farm shop can be more affordable than a full restaurant meal. Focus on enjoying the beautiful grounds and gardens, which are free to explore. Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs, and prioritize activities like leisurely walks and enjoying the scenery over expensive tastings or meals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of the Friday Night Market
+1The market showcases the best of local produce, artisanal crafts, and mouthwatering food stalls. Visitors can expect a diverse culinary experience, from gourmet burgers to artisanal cheeses and sweet treats. Paired with Boschendal's award-winning wines, it's an ideal way to ease into the weekend.
Key takeaway: While entry is free, booking in advance is crucial due to its popularity. It's a must-visit for experiencing the vibrant local culture and enjoying a delightful evening on the farm.
Family Fun and Activities
For a more structured experience, the Tree House Holiday Programme is a standout. This magical program, run by experienced educators, immerses children in themed days tailored to their interests, allowing parents to enjoy the estate's offerings with peace of mind.
Beyond organized activities, the expansive gardens and open spaces encourage exploration and imaginative play. The family-friendly atmosphere extends to the Friday Night Market, making Boschendal a destination where everyone can create lasting memories.
Culinary Delights: Picnics and Tastings
Wine tasting is another signature experience. Visitors can sample Boschendal's award-winning wines, often guided by knowledgeable staff who enhance the tasting with insights into the estate's history and winemaking process. Some experiences even combine breakfast with wine tasting, offering a unique start to the day.
While the restaurant and farm shop are praised for quality, some reviewers note that prices can be higher, reflecting a more tourist-oriented market. However, the quality of items like lamb pies and croissants from the deli is consistently highlighted as excellent.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit