wine tasting franschhoek
Experiences
Experience farm-to-table dining, holistic wellness, bespoke experiences and private wine tasting in Franschhoek, Western Cape
At Paddakloof Luxury Estate, every sense is awakened. The scent of wild rosemary on the breeze. The soft press of linen, still warm from the sun. The first sip of an expressive vintage, poured just for you in a private wine tasting in Franschhoek you won’t find on any map. The crunch of gravel underfoot as you wander the olive grove. The golden light flickering through glass as dusk spills across the valley. Here, every bespoke experience – be it dining, wellness, exploration or wine tasting – stirs your senses and lingers long after. It’s an invitation to experience the best of Franschhoek, Western Cape in a way that’s entirely your own.
The Barn
The Barn is where guests naturally come together. This grand space, set within the Paddakloof manor house, opens onto a patio that flows into the lawn, with the inviting pool sparkling just beyond.
Inside, the mood shifts: warm timber floors and dark wood finishes are softened by leather, stone and plush upholstery. Light moves easily through the room, touching high-beamed ceilings and open-plan areas. From here, you can take in the full sweep of the estate: vineyards, mountains and a sky that opens wide above it all.
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Centred around an 18-seater table, The Barn suits everything from birthday dinners and milestone lunches to intimate weddings and private group stays. Two working fireplaces warm the room in cooler months, turning winter evenings into something cinematic – flickering shadows, red wine in hand, laughter rolling long after the meal ends.
To one side, a glass-panelled wine cellar showcases an extraordinary collection. Rare vintages, French champagnes and celebration-sized magnums make this a destination for anyone with a reverence for iconic wines. It’s also where you’ll enjoy a private wine tasting in Franschhoek, guided or self-paced – either inside the atmospheric cellar or outdoors, looking over the pool with a glass in hand. The adjacent cigar lounge is a place for whisky drinkers, cigar collectors or those who know the pleasure of a night stretched out with good company
Even outside of formal meals, The Barn is a place to unwind. Morning papers, a board game with friends, drinks before dinner – it’s a welcoming shared space that makes you feel at home while still feeling thoroughly taken care of.
The Paddakloof Kitchen
Just a few steps from The Barn, the Paddakloof Kitchen brings the farm-to-table philosophy to life. The space looks out onto a serene koi pond and connects to an intimate family lounge – perfect for smaller groups who prefer a more personal dining setting.
Behind the scenes, a fully equipped prep kitchen buzzes with calm culinary focus. With its hidden scullery and walk-in cold room, it’s ideal for event chefs or busy celebrations. It offers all the infrastructure needed for seamless service – think wedding brunches, anniversary lunches, harvest dinners or festive holiday meals.
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From here, a path leads straight into our organic vegetable garden, where chefs select what they need, often minutes before plating. One day it’s rainbow chard and vine tomatoes. Another, aubergine and fresh garden peas. These are authentic farm-grown ingredients – used in dishes that feel local, comforting and honest. Expect simple pleasures, done beautifully: roast aubergine with herbed yoghurt, garden pea risotto, heirloom tomato tart, and fresh fig and ricotta salad.
The Paddakloof Wellness Pavilion
A getaway shouldn’t mean leaving your well-being behind. At Paddakloof Luxury Estate, we believe true luxury is feeling your best in every moment, which is why we’ve created the Paddakloof Wellness Pavilion.
Start your morning with purpose in the functional gym, where Technogym cardio machines, free weights and strength training equipment await. The view of the estate through floor-to-ceiling windows fuels your energy as you power through your workout. Whether you’re getting in a quick cardio session before a day of wine tasting in Franschhoek or targeting strength training to balance your indulgent trip, the space is built for results – all with a view that keeps you grounded in nature.
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After your workout, the infrared sauna beckons. With a panoramic view of the vineyard, the warmth relaxes your muscles, easing the tension built up from travel or adventure. Next, cool off with a dip in the cold plunge pool. The icy water sparks circulation and tightens the skin, leaving you feeling invigorated and instantly refreshed.
To complete your wellness experience, spa therapists are available by appointment. Book a deep tissue massage to target muscle tension and restore your energy. Or, treat yourself to a radiance-boosting facial before heading out for a special dinner.
International wine tasting
Our wine cellar features a prestigious selection of international wines from renowned regions like Bordeaux, Tuscany and Rioja. Our dedication to curating the finest collections means our guests have access to exceptional bottles that you won’t find elsewhere. It’s a rare wine tasting experience in Franschhoek, made even more special by its setting.
E-bike tours
Exploring Franschhoek on an e-bike lets you immerse yourself in the natural beauty while covering more ground. Glide through the town’s picturesque streets, past charming boutiques and cafés, before heading into the countryside. The mountains stand tall in the distance, while the endless rows of vineyards create an ever-changing landscape.
Barbecues and braais
At Paddakloof Luxury Estate, we host unforgettable barbecues – or braais as we say it in South Africa – on the estate, using the best local ingredients. Think premium cuts of meat paired with the full-bodied wines from our vineyards, complemented by seasonal sides from our organic gardens. This is a true South African tradition, served in an exclusive setting.
Olive grove discovery
Silver-leaved trees shimmer softly, their dappled shade making the olive grove a magical part of the estate. Guests are invited to walk its winding paths, learn about our cultivation practices and taste our house-pressed oils on guided tours. During harvest season, you can take part in picking or pressing olives firsthand.
V Collection Wines experience
At Paddakloof Luxury Estate, you can taste and purchase V Collection Wines from our vineyards in Franschhoek, South Africa, Uco Valley, Argentina and Napa Valley, USA. Sip a glass of our flagship Franschhoek shiraz as you stroll through the vineyards, or sample a vintage straight from the barrel in our cellar.
Library
Rain falling? Afternoon to spare? Slip into the library – a cosy corner of Paddakloof Luxury Estate where stories line the walls and time seems to pause. The shelves offer a curated mix of books, including South African history, travel memoirs, design titles and contemporary fiction. Guests are welcome to browse, borrow or linger with a cup of tea in hand.
Private events
Paddakloof Luxury Estate provides an exclusive luxury destination for private events. Our estate includes versatile spaces suited to gatherings of all sizes. From intimate weddings to corporate retreats, birthday parties or anniversary celebrations, we’re equipped to bring your vision to life. Exclusive-use bookings are also available.
