Waterford Estate
A picturesque Stellenbosch winery with Tuscan charm, offering unique Wine Drive Safaris and exquisite wine & chocolate pairings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vineyards in bloom, pleasant weather
Waterford Estate
Best Time
Vineyards in bloom, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque Stellenbosch winery with Tuscan charm, offering unique Wine Drive Safaris and exquisite wine & chocolate pairings.
"The beautiful Waterford Estate that makes me feel like I’m in Italy."
🚗 Scenic Drive Up
The drive up the Blaauwklippen valley is stunning, reminiscent of Tuscany! Enjoy the journey.
🍫 Don't Skip Chocolate Pairing
The rose geranium chocolate is a must-try! A unique and delicious way to experience the wines.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wine Drive Safari
Explore the vineyards by open-air vehicle, tasting wine amidst the vines. An unforgettable journey through the estate.
Wine and Chocolate Pairing
Indulge in expertly curated pairings, featuring unique chocolates that complement Waterford's exquisite wines.
SALT Restaurant
Experience elevated dining with stunning vineyard views, focusing on seasonal ingredients and wine-infused dishes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Wine Safari in Advance
Consider the Chocolate Pairing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Drive Up
The drive up the Blaauwklippen valley is stunning, reminiscent of Tuscany! Enjoy the journey.
🍫 Don't Skip Chocolate Pairing
The rose geranium chocolate is a must-try! A unique and delicious way to experience the wines.
👗 Dress for the Occasion
Many visitors dress up for a stylish day out, especially for photos. Think chic vineyard attire!
📅 Book Safari in Advance
The Wine Drive Safari is popular and books up quickly. Secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drive Up
The drive up the Blaauwklippen valley is stunning, reminiscent of Tuscany! Enjoy the journey.
🍫 Don't Skip Chocolate Pairing
The rose geranium chocolate is a must-try! A unique and delicious way to experience the wines.
👗 Dress for the Occasion
Many visitors dress up for a stylish day out, especially for photos. Think chic vineyard attire!
📅 Book Safari in Advance
The Wine Drive Safari is popular and books up quickly. Secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.
🍽️ Food Quality Varies
While the setting is gorgeous, some reviews mention food not meeting expectations. Manage expectations for dining.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Waterford Estate is celebrated for its stunning Tuscan-like setting and unique experiences like the Wine Drive Safari and Wine & Chocolate Pairing. While the ambiance and service are frequently praised, some visitors have noted inconsistencies in food quality at SALT restaurant. Overall, it's a highly recommended destination for its picturesque beauty and immersive wine adventures.
"I have been here a few times and it is always nice.
The staff is professional and friendly.
I’d recommend the chocolate pairing , but mainly because the rose geranium chocolate is my favourite.
The platter is also very interesting and more than you would expect from other wine farms."
Zoie Does Things
"Lovely estate, the venue is absolutely gorgeous, but the food did not meet the standard. Food was cold and not cooked correctly, well also messing up the orders at a very high end location.
My partner and I ordered the lamb rump, but the fat was not rendered, the meat was cold and bland. Hopefully we were just unlucky with our time at Waterford Estate, because it is such a beautiful place."
Ulene De Kock
"Peaceful and beautiful vineyard. We had a chocolate and wine pairing and it was very good. Superb service by Tyler, our host for the visit. We also had a tour in the cellar, which was pretty cool!"
Fábio Arcanjo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Waterford Estate is located in the Stellenbosch region. The most convenient way to reach it from Cape Town is by car, taking approximately 45-60 minutes via the N2 and R44. You can also arrange for a taxi or ride-sharing service.
Yes, the estate is well-signposted once you turn off the main roads. The drive up the Blaauwklippen valley is scenic and often compared to Tuscany.
There is ample parking available at Waterford Estate for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Waterford Estate is a popular stop on many Stellenbosch wine tours. Many tour operators include it in their itineraries, offering a convenient way to visit.
From Cape Town, take the N2 towards Somerset West, then take Exit 47 for the R44 towards Stellenbosch. Follow the R44 and then turn onto Blaauwklippen Road, following signs for Waterford Estate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your experiences, especially the Wine Drive Safari and Wine & Chocolate Pairing, in advance, as they are very popular and can sell out.
Waterford Estate typically opens around 10:00 AM and closes around 5:00 PM. However, it's always best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary seasonally.
The cost of the Wine Drive Safari can vary, but it typically includes a guided tour of the vineyards and wine tastings. It's advisable to check the Waterford Estate website for current pricing and booking details.
Yes, Waterford Estate offers various tasting experiences, including their signature Wine & Chocolate Pairing, and the immersive Wine Drive Safari. They also offer standard wine tastings.
While walk-ins may be accommodated if space is available, booking in advance is strongly advised to guarantee your preferred tasting experience, especially for the Wine Drive Safari and Chocolate Pairing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Wine Drive Safari is an open-air vehicle tour through the vineyards. You'll learn about the winemaking process, enjoy tastings amongst the vines, and experience the estate's beautiful landscape.
Comfortable yet stylish attire is recommended. Many visitors opt for smart-casual or dressy outfits, especially if planning for photos. Comfortable shoes are a good idea, particularly if you're doing the Wine Drive Safari.
While Waterford Estate offers a sophisticated wine experience, the beautiful grounds and unique safari can be enjoyed by families. However, the focus is primarily on wine tasting.
SALT at Waterford offers a fine dining experience with a focus on food and wine pairings. It's known for its Tuscan-inspired architecture and beautiful vineyard views.
Absolutely! Waterford Estate is incredibly picturesque, with Tuscan-inspired architecture and stunning vineyard landscapes, making it a fantastic spot for photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Waterford Estate features SALT, a restaurant offering a fine dining experience with seasonal dishes and wine pairings. They also offer platters as part of their tasting experiences.
Reviews for SALT restaurant are mixed. While many praise the beautiful setting and concept, some guests have reported issues with food quality and preparation.
Yes, SALT at Waterford offers wine and food experiences. They emphasize the art of pairing wine with food to elevate flavors.
It's best to contact SALT at Waterford directly or check their menu online for specific dietary options. Fine dining establishments often accommodate dietary requests with advance notice.
Waterford Estate offers interesting platters as part of their tasting experiences, which are often described as generous and more substantial than expected.
📸 📸 Photography
The Tuscan-inspired architecture, manicured gardens, and rolling vineyards offer numerous stunning photo opportunities. The courtyard and the views from SALT restaurant are particularly photogenic.
With its romantic ambiance and beautiful scenery, Waterford Estate is a popular choice for engagement and pre-wedding photos.
For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to contact Waterford Estate in advance to inquire about their policies and any associated fees.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow over the vineyards and architecture.
Drone usage is typically restricted at private estates for privacy and safety reasons. It's best to check with Waterford Estate directly regarding their drone policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the primary focus is wine tasting, the beautiful Tuscan-inspired architecture and the scenic drive up to the estate can be an enjoyable part of the outing for the whole family. Consider packing some snacks or light entertainment for younger children during tasting sessions.
🥂 Couples and Romantic Getaways
For an even more special occasion, consider booking a tasting during the golden hours of late afternoon for breathtaking sunset views over the vineyards. The sophisticated ambiance of SALT restaurant also makes it a perfect choice for a romantic dinner.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
From the charming courtyard to the rolling hills of the Helderberg Mountain, every corner offers a picturesque scene. Whether you're capturing the vineyards, the architecture, or the intimate moments of a wine tasting, Waterford provides a beautiful canvas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Waterford Estate Wine Drive Safari Experience
During the safari, you'll have the opportunity to taste Waterford's wines directly amongst the vines, experiencing how the terroir influences the final product. This hands-on approach provides a deeper appreciation for the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of Waterford's wines. It's an engaging and educational journey that appeals to both wine enthusiasts and those seeking a unique outdoor adventure.
Given its popularity, booking this safari well in advance is crucial. It's an experience that consistently receives high praise for its uniqueness and the immersive way it showcases the estate's wines and landscape.
Wine and Chocolate Pairing: A Sensory Delight
Visitors often highlight the rose geranium chocolate as a particular favorite, showcasing the estate's creativity in developing unique flavor profiles that complement their wines. The pairings are thoughtfully curated, designed to bring out the best in both the wine and the chocolate, offering a delightful surprise for the palate.
This experience is a testament to Waterford's commitment to offering more than just a standard wine tasting. It's an opportunity to explore nuanced flavors and discover new taste sensations in a beautiful setting.
SALT at Waterford: Dining with a View
The culinary philosophy at SALT revolves around the art of food and wine pairing, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. They aim to create dishes where flavors are sharpened and transformed, especially when infused with elements like salt. This approach ensures that each meal is a harmonious complement to Waterford's wines.
While the setting and concept are widely praised, it's worth noting that some reviews suggest the food quality can be inconsistent. However, for those seeking a refined dining experience with stunning vineyard views, SALT at Waterford remains a compelling option.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit