Wine destination offers nature-lovers the chance to shed their winter blues
As Nature prepares to burst from its winter slumber, Waterkloof biodynamic wine estate set in fynbos-covered hills overlooking False Bay invites nature-lovers who seek an exceptional experience to visit the farm and celebrate the full circle of life.
“Circle of Life” is a central motif to Waterkloof’s farming and winemaking philosophy, on display once again as winter recedes. Waterkloof offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the farm and its mountainous surroundings through a diverse program of superlative activities.
More than just a typical ‘organic vine to organic wine’ experience, the two-hour Circle of Life Biodynamic Tour takes eco-enthusiasts and lovers of pure, untamed wines in particular behind the scenes of Waterkloof’s green way of life on the crest of the Schapenberg in the Helderberg. Personally conducted by the estate’s farm manager Christiaan Loots – the driving force behind Waterkloof’s cutting edge, environmentally responsible farming methods – these insightful edu-eco tours show how biodynamic and organic farming is really done.
It took Christiaan and his “green brigade” ten years to transform the once depleted, conventionally farmed land covered in alien tree species, infected vines and eroded roads, into the healthy, sustainable life-force it is today. With groups limited to 12 people, you’ll learn more about amongst others, its beautiful Percheron horses that are used instead of tractors, to plough, compost, spray and harvest.
“On our Circle of Life Tour you will get to meet our new brood of compost-making chicks; the inside scoop on our biodynamic preparations; to stick your hands into our earthworm farm; the dirty on how we produce our own 100% natural fertiliser; and, much more. Not to mention the clean air and scenic splendour,” says Christiaan.
The estate’s new Tour With Us experience offers a more exclusive and all-round glimpse of Waterkloof by including the bio-dynamic tour with a visit to the cellar; an informative wine tasting; and, a two-course lunch at the estate’s Eat Out Top 10 Restaurant. Groups are limited to six people to keep it personal.
Other guided tours that provide insight into the farm and its eco-friendly approach include a full-circuit, two-hour Guided Walk. It highlights Waterkloof’s Champion status in the WWF Biodiversity and Wine Initiative and its location in the Cape Flower Kingdom – one of the world’s foremost biodiversity hotspots. After working up an appetite soaking up natural beauty on foot, walkers can end their experience with a two-course lunch or dinner, all served up with awe-inspiring farm and ocean views.
Visitors can also explore the Schapenberg’s dramatic surroundings on horseback. The Ride With Us adventure gets you into the saddle for a picturesque, 60-minute trail ride through the area and ends with a leisurely, two-course lunch at Waterkloof.
Make your visit to Waterkloof even more spectacular by flying in by helicopter from the V&A Waterfront. The luxury Bird’s Eye View excursion includes a tutored wine tasting upon arrival; cellar tour; and, six-course degustation menu with wine pairings in the estate’s award-winning ‘restaurant in the sky’, perched high on the hill, before taking the flight back.
Waterkloof is situated on the outskirts of Somerset West and within a spectacular amphitheatre of vineyards, fynbos and mountains. Its environmentally sensitive approach to farming, honest wines, highly rated restaurant and striking cellar design are pillars of its reputation.
Waterkloof currently produces three wine collections in addition to the flagship Waterkloof range: Circle of Life, Circumstance and Seriously Cool. The estate’s sister company, False Bay Vineyards, produces two ranges: Peacock Wild Ferment and False Bay.
All excursions must be pre-booked. For bookings, dates and terms and conditions, contact Zandri at Tel: 021 858 1491 or send email to [email protected].
Activity cost* per person:
Circle of Life Biodynamic Tour: R100
Tour With Us: R520
Guided Walk: R630
Ride With Us: R670
Bird’s Eye View: 
R10, 500
*Prices subject to change
For more information about Waterkloof visit www.waterkloofwines.co.za or follow @WaterkloofWines on Facebook and Twitter.
