Looking to do something different in Stellenbosch? Pregnant and unable to indulge in the plethora of wine tastings offered in the valley, we recently retreated to a quieter side of Stellenbosch to discover two beautiful hidden gems, perfect for a family day out.
Canettevallei Lavender
Our day started off at Canettevallei Lavender, located on a road that was the old wagon route into the city of Cape Town. This is a family-run farm with a passion for all things lavender and, of course, wine.
A true team effort, the lavender side here is run by the wife, while the winemaking efforts are the husband’s passion. We started our day exploring the lavender fields where we were able to pick our own fragrant bunches of the purple flowers. This was an activity our daughter loved—she ran through the fields with glee, her laughter mingling with the sweet scent of lavender. It was a great way to spend a morning, connecting with nature and each other.
We then peeked inside the workshop where the lavender and various other scents are used to create handmade soaps. Seeing how these soaps are handmade was fascinating, especially for our little one who couldn’t get enough of the colorful soaps and the interesting smells. The lovely shop was also a treasure trove of lavender-themed items, from soap and essential oils to beautiful crafts. It felt like a lavender lover’s paradise.
After we were done strolling through the endless fields, we (or hubby at least!) were able to sit back and relax with a glass of wine in the shade of the trees. The farm offers various red and white varieties for tastings, with purchases of these limited-edition wines only available at the farm. It was a perfect moment of peace and relaxation, watching our daughter play with the farm dogs nearby while we enjoyed the tranquil surroundings.
Jordan Wine Estate
Just down the road from Canettevallei, Jordan is a beautiful 164-hectare wine farm. Here we decided on a casual lunch option and a great way to spend the afternoon as a family with a delicious picnic. We got to enjoy this in our own private picnic pod situated in a secluded spot on the lawn overlooking the dam and mountains.
Our basket was filled to the brim with delectable treats from The Cellar Door at Jordan including freshly baked focaccia, charcuterie, cheeses, homemade preserves and spreads, and a green garden salad. Plus, of course, something sweet. There was also a totally separate basket for our little one with a juice box, chips, pizza, and more. The thoughtfulness of providing a child-friendly picnic made the experience even more enjoyable and stress-free for us as parents.
It was fantastic to simply spend the day letting time go by while our daughter enjoyed playing on the grass and watching the ducks in the dam. She was completely engrossed, giving us moments to sit back and take in the stunning views and the serene atmosphere. The peacefulness of the estate, combined with the joy of watching our child revel in the simple pleasures of nature, made for a perfect family outing.
In conclusion, our day out in Stellenbosch at Canettevallei Lavender and Jordan Wine Estate was a refreshing change of pace. Both locations offered unique experiences that catered to our family, allowing us to bond, relax, and create lasting memories together. Whether you’re looking for alternatives to wine tasting or simply wanting to enjoy a day out with your loved ones, these hidden gems are definitely worth a visit.