Discover the Winelands through the eyes of Cape Wine Master and seasoned storyteller Harry Melck. With his deep roots in the industry and a flair for unearthing the unexpected, Harry takes you off the tourist trail to showcase the people, places, and wines that make this region truly unique. This is a day of insider access, thought-provoking tastings, and unforgettable landscapes.
tart your journey by stepping off the beaten path and into the soul of the Winelands. With Harry as your hop-on guide, you'll explore boutique farms and family-run estates that embody South Africa’s pioneering spirit. He calls them the “Wine Crazies” — maverick winemakers who push boundaries, break rules, and lead innovation in the South African wine industry.
A signature highlight of the experience is Harry’s travelling pop-up wine cellar. Throughout the day, he'll surprise you with tastings from his personal collection, rare and unusual bottles not easily found elsewhere, each with a story and setting shaped by the mood and rhythm of the day.
Begin with a gentle walk through the historic Babylonstoren Gardens. Dating back to 1692, this working Cape Dutch farm is home to one of the best-preserved farmyards in the Cape, with beautiful edible gardens and rich layers of history.
Next, visit Muratie, where every corner tells a story. This atmospheric estate is steeped in heritage, with a rustic charm and deep connection to the past. Tasting here is more than just wine, it’s a journey through generations.
Continue to L’Avenir, where French flair meets South African innovation. Enjoy a guided tasting in a bistro-style setting or outdoors by the lake, sampling award-winning Pinotage and Chenin Blanc in tune with the season.
Pause for a relaxed lunch at a wine estate, where seasonal, locally inspired dishes are served with views of the vineyards and surrounding mountains. The setting may vary but the focus remains on unhurried enjoyment and warm hospitality.
In the afternoon, travel through the scenic Banghoek Valley to Oldenburg, a farm renowned for its sustainable farming and dramatic mountain amphitheatre. Their wines are a pure reflection of place, crafted in harmony with nature, and always of exceptional quality.
If time permits, your guide can arrange one final tasting at one of Oldenburg’s neighbouring estates. Options include Thelema, Tokara, Delaire Graff, Bartinney, Camberley, or Rainbows End, each with its own unique terroir, style, and story.
Tour Code: Travelyst Master
Languages: English
Flexibility - adaptable on an hour to hour basis to suit your clients’ needs and changing weather conditions throughout the day. Where you go and what activities you do are up to you.
Adventure Utility Vehicle (AUV) – Our vehicle comes equipped with stand up paddles, pre-packed hiking packs and a fully stocked gourmet pantry with drinks included.
Top Adventure Guides - Viewed as the best in Africa in their specialist fields, our guides have a wealth of experience and stories to tell.
The tour shown is only an example, more or less can be done on the day. Click on the activities list and map for more information.
Harry Melck: Cape Wine Master and Wine Story Teller (Full Day)
Includes:
- Private Adventure Guide / Driver
- Exclusive Use of Adventure Utility Vehicle
- Adventure Equipment
- Drinks - Soft Drinks, Beer, Wine & Selected Spirits
- Gourmet Pantry - selection of snacks and picnic items
- Unlimited travel in and around Cape Town, including as far as Winelands & Hermanus
Excludes:
- Specialist Equipment: Surf Board, Wetsuit, and Tuition or Mountain Bikes - available at an additional rate
- Entry, Attraction Fees and Park Fees - e.g. Aquarium & Cable Car
- Additional restaurant meals and wine farm supplied picnics
- Adventures beyond 100 km radius of Cape Town - e.g. Cape Agulhas, Ceres & Orange River
- Onward Transfer out of touring area. e.g pick up and touring in one location, drop off in second location
- Luggage transfers of more than two people (limited space due to onboard offerings)
- Extended Day Supplement - pick up before 8 am and drop off after 6 pm
Optional Enhancements: Our Hop On Specialist is at an additional cost, please request a quotation from your Adventure Architect) or refer to Additional Tour Enhancements Rate Sheet.
