PRE-conference WINE & WHALES TOUR

Depart Cape Town and travel along the Clarens Drive, one of South Africa’s most breathtaking coastal routes. With every twist and turn, enjoy panoramic views of mountain peaks, turquoise waters, and quaint seaside villages.

Your first stop is Stony Point Nature Reserve in Betty’s Bay, home to one of the world’s largest breeding colonies of African penguins. Watch these charming creatures waddle and preen in their natural environment – a delightful start to your coastal adventure.

Continue to Benguela Cove Wine Estate, a stunning vineyard perched on the edge of the Bot River Lagoon. Enjoy a wine tasting and relaxed lunch overlooking the water, where cool sea breezes and exceptional wines capture the essence of coastal living.

Arrive in Hermanus, famous for its whale sightings and seaside promenade. Check into the Windsor Hotel, perfectly located to enjoy sunset views over Walker Bay. The evening is at leisure — stroll along the cliff paths, dine at one of the town’s excellent seafood restaurants, or simply unwind to the sound of the ocean.

Start your morning with a thrilling whale-watching boat trip, an unforgettable experience during the season (June–November) when Southern Right Whales gather in the bay.

Back on land, head into the renowned Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, a haven for cool-climate wines. Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the valley’s boutique estates, where elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay take centre stage. Travel inland to Franschhoek, the “French Corner” of the Cape Winelands, known for its art galleries, charming streets, and culinary excellence. En route, stop for another wine tasting to sample the region’s acclaimed vintages before arriving at your boutique hotel. The evening is yours to explore — perhaps dine at one of Franschhoek’s award-winning restaurants or enjoy a quiet evening sipping wine on a terrace surrounded by vineyards.

Overnight at the elegant Franschhoek Boutique Hotel.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out, but your wine adventure is far from over!

Your first stop is Black Elephant Vintners, where you’ll take part in their innovative Silent Disco Tasting — a fun, music-driven wine experience that brings each blend to life in an unexpected way.

Continue to Paarl for a guided KWV Emporium Cellar Tour, where the rich history of South African winemaking comes alive through a tasting of signature wines, brandies, or fortified favourites. Round off your journey with a relaxing picnic lunch at Nederburg, one of South Africa’s most storied wine estates. Enjoy fine wines, lush lawns, and gourmet picnic fare under the shade of grand oaks — the perfect finale to your Winelands escape.

After lunch, return to Cape Town in the late afternoon, arriving at Lagoon Beach Hotel, where the city skyline and Table Mountain views greet you once more — a beautiful end to a journey of sea, vines, and unforgettable moments.