Spier Wine Farm / Stellenbosch

Spier Wine Farm is definitely one of the Must-Visit Estates in the country. Established in 1692, it boasts a fascinating history that spans over three centuries and which is visible in the meticulously restored Cape Dutch buildings on the farm. Visitors can take guided tours of the farm and its beautifully restored buildings, gaining insight into its rich past. Spier Wine Farm is also home to one of the largest collections of contemporary art works in the country and you are able to admire those beautiful pieces everywhere you go on the farm.

Art lovers will appreciate the Spier Arts Trust, which supports emerging South African artists. The farm is home to an ever-evolving collection of sculptures and artwork, making it a captivating space for those interested in the arts. You can explore the sculptures scattered throughout the estate or visit the Creative Block, an initiative that supports local artists.

Award-Winning Wines

Spier Wine Farm is renowned for producing a diverse range of award-winning wines. The estate’s winemaking philosophy revolves around sustainable farming practices and an unwavering commitment to quality. Their wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, and Shiraz, have received international acclaim. The farm’s tasting rooms offer visitors the chance to savour these exceptional wines while taking in stunning views of the vineyards and surrounding mountains. The wine tasting cellar is open between 9:00 and 17:00 7 days a week and they have fantastic tasting options to choose from.

For example, you can taste their Organic Wine Range, do a Chocolate wine Tasting, enjoy the winemaker selection or go for the mos affordable option with their Spier tasting. Best thing for families: your kiddies can join in on the fun and do a Grape Juice Tasting while you sip through your alcoholic juices! You can find all their wine tasting options and prices here: WINE TASTING

Family-Friendly Activities

Spier Wine Farm is the perfect destination for families looking to enjoy a day out together. The estate offers various activities to keep children and grown-ups entertained and engaged.

The Elemental Garden

Children can indulge in a unique experience in the farm’s elemental play garden. The garden has been segmented into four sections, each symbolizing the four fundamental elements – water, air, fire, and earth. Running through all of them is a winding water feature that serves as a representation of the Fibonacci Sequence. The kids will also find a tunnel to crawl through, a wind sculpture and a swing bridge.

This unique garden was conceived by landscape designer Ed Brooks and the local landscape architect Danielle Croly, predominantly utilizing native plant species.

Vineyard Segway Tour

Go on a fun Segway ride and get to know the vineyard and their farming practices in action! The one hour Segway tours can be booked online and cost R470 per person (price 2024). You can choose from 5 different tour times during the day: 9:00, 10:30, 12:00, 14:00 and 15.30.

Please note that children under the age of 10 are not allowed on a Segway tour and the maximum weight is 120kg. You can book gift vouchers or a tour for yourself here: SEGWAY TOURS

Water Play Feature

For those hot summer days, Spier Wine Farm installed a beautiful mosaic water play feature where the little ones can cool off their feet and splash around. Make sure to bring along some spare clothes and bathing suits when your child wants to go wild in the water.

Self-Guided Walks

Spier Wine Farm is huge and there is so much to explore, that you can go on a little walk and learn about Spier’s fascinating history. You can visit their website for instructions on how to download the VoiceMap app that guides you through their walking tours.

You can either go on a 90 minute circular Heritage Walk, the River Walk or Walk the Farm. Find out about the different walks here: SELF-GUIDED WALKS

Eagle Encounters

UPDATE: Eagle Encounters are no longer open to the public since 02. April 2024!

Eagle Encounters has been operating successfully since 2001, with a focus on rehabilitating and releasing birds of prey, as well as advocating for conservation and education. They operate on land generously provided by Spier. These magnificent birds play a crucial role in maintaining the farm’s ecosystem equilibrium by naturally controlling pests, eliminating the need for pesticides.

Visitors have the unique opportunity to engage in intimate encounters with a variety of birds, including eagles, hawks, falcons, owls, kites, buzzards, and even snakes.

Eagle Encounters is OPEN Tuesdays – Sundays from 9.30 – 17:00 and you can find more information on their dedicated website: https://www.eagle-encounters.co.za/

Entrance Fee Prices (2024):

Adults R100
R75 Children aged 3-12
R80 Students (with student cards) & Pensioners
R50 for Wahlberg’s Eagle Personal Encounters
R75 for Black Eagle Personal Encounters

Mountain Bike Trail

Embark on a cycling adventure by hopping on your bike and pedaling through either a 10km or 20km mountain bike trail set amidst the stunning landscapes of the Cape Winelands.

This well-marked route, thoughtfully crafted and maintained by the dedicated members of the Wine Lands Cycling Club, offers a delightful blend of single tracks and farm roads, weaving through the scenic Spier farm. As you journey along, you’ll find yourself traversing through the enchanting Renosterveld on a single track before rejoining the vineyard farm roads, eventually following the serene river back to your starting point.

You can acquire day permits for R100 from 9:00 daily at the Picnickery. Find out more information here: MOUNTAIN BIKING

Craft Market

This market proudly showcases an array of genuine and inventive artworks, all meticulously handcrafted and encompassing a wide range of sizes and materials. Expect to encounter an impressive array, from high-caliber collector’s paintings to towering wooden carvings, and a diverse selection of jewelry, leather goods, textiles, and ceramics.

As you explore the market, you’ll have the opportunity to observe artists, designers, and artisans diligently crafting wire and beadwork trophy heads, creating intricate paintings, or skillfully shaping recycled aluminum into sculptures.

Food & Picnics

When it comes to dining, Spier Wine Farm offers a range of options to cater to different tastes. The Hotel Restaurant focuses on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes that range from burgers and game to a variety of traditional farm specialities. You can sit down for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They also offer a kiddies menu and a dedicated Hotel Kids’ Club where childminders will ensure your kids are happy and safe while you dine between 08:00 – 17:00.

For those seeking lighter fare, the Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery is the perfect spot to enjoy delicious sandwiches, smoked meats, and freshly baked bread. It’s also a very kid-friendly place as it overlooks the rolling lawns and ancient oaks of Spier’s meticulously restored Werf – perfect for the kids to run wild on.

Those who prefer a more special and unique dining experience, a Spier Farm Picnic might be the perfect option. Their picnic baskets are filled with delicious seasonally-inspired dishes and you can choose your preferred picnic spot on the farm. Whether you sit down on the inviting lawns or head over to the Riverside picnic area overlooking the dam, you will absolutely love the experience. You can order your picnic basket up to 24 hours in advance and all the cutlery, blankets and glassware will be included in your pre-booked order.

They also cater for special dietary requirements in case you are looking for a vegetarian or vegan option. For children under the age of 12, they have a special kiddies picnic basket. Find out all information about their picnics here: SPIER PICNIC

Our Experience

Spier Wine Farm in Stellenbosch is not just a winery; it’s a destination that offers a well-rounded experience for visitors of all ages. With its rich history, award-winning wines, family-friendly activities, art and culture, farm-to-table dining, and dedication to sustainability, Spier Wine Farm stands as a testament to the beauty and diversity of South Africa’s winemaking tradition. A visit to this picturesque estate promises not only a taste of world-class wines but also an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Western Cape’s wine country.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Checklist

Opening Times: Daily between 09:00 – 21:00 depending on the facility you like to visit
Age Group: 0 – 99
Baby Changing Facilities: Yes
Kids Menu: Yes
Fun Factor: 5/5
Free WIFI: No