Delaire Graff Estate, South Africa
Delaire Graff estate, South Africa Delaire Graff Estate is one of South Africa’s premier wine producers, but the fruits of the vine won’t be the only thing on your mind when you’re ensconced in one of its luxury lodges. You may also be pondering a dip in your private heated plunge pool, weighing up your options on the spa menu, or considering a post-dinner film at the private cinema. Situated in Stellenbosch and offering gorgeous views of the Simonsberg mountains, Delaire defines understated elegance. Adding to the chic, spacious interiors is a celebrated art collection featuring works by the likes of Dylan Lewis, Lionel Smith and Sidney Kumalo, as well as an original Tretchikoff, his iconic Chinese Girl. Between the bistro-style offerings at the Delaire Graff Restaurant and the Asian-inspired cuisine on offer at Indochine, you’ll no doubt find something to whet your appetite. delaire.co.za
Calistoga Ranch, United states
If it’s wine that you are after, California –more specifically, the Napa Valley – belongs on your bucket list. At first glance, Calistoga Ranch resort and spa, which is set in a lush forest with a gorgeous mountain backdrop, doesn’t scream ‘vino destination’, but the vineyards in the valley down below tell a different story. Go biking through the local wine farms; take a ‘painting in the vineyards’ class to brush up on your technique; or discover the art of wine-blending in the privacy of your lodge. Each of the 50 free-standing lodges merges seamlessly into the forest surroundings, boasting glossy polished wood finishes, floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive decks. Each lodge has an outdoor gas fireplace, outdoor shower and bath, and, in some cases, a private outdoor hot tub. For a taste of some of that famed Napa Valley cuisine, visit the ranch’s picturesque Lakehouse restaurant, which overlooks Lake Lommel. calistogaranch.aubergeresorts.com
La Petite Ferme, South Africa
Roughly four centuries ago, you may have found elephants roaming the valley of Franschhoek; these days, on the slopes of Oliphants Pass, you will find a patchwork of neatly planted vineyards, among them those of La Petite Ferme. Stay in one of the five vineyard suites – all with private plunge pools and patios overlooking the vines – or one of the manor-house suites. La Petite Ferme offers guided walks through the fields, cellar tours and wine tasting, as well as a full-day cycle trip to nearby Berg River Dam, via Robertsvlei Road and GlenWood Vineyards. While Franschhoek has more than its fair share of foodie offerings, you will be forgiven for wanting to dine at the estate’s restaurant more than once. Head chef Neethling du Toit is a firm believer in wholesome uncomplicated food, and his menu reflects this ethos. lapetiteferme.co.za
The Louise, Australia
In the heart of Barossa wine country in South Australia is The Louise. The estate’s luxury suites focus on pampering, with outdoor rain showers, spacious bathrooms and spa tubs. Oh, and did we mention that breakfast is served on your secluded private terrace? The Louise is also home to one of Australia’s finest restaurants, Appellation. Here, the team takes local to the next level, handling all their own baking, brewing, preserving, fermenting and brining. For an absolute treat, take a tutorial on the art of blending grape varieties. Once you’ve settled on your final blend, the chefs will develop a dish to complement it, to be served as a course at your table. thelouise.com.au
Laborie, South Africa
For a stay steeped in vinicultural history, head to Laborie in Paarl. Dating back to 1691, Laborie is one of the oldest wine farms in South Africa. The estate includes the original manor house, which was built in 1750, and is now a national monument. If it’s an authentic experience that you are after, book your stay in this historic manor house. Otherwise, there are nine luxury guest rooms surrounding it, with views of the Drakenstein Mountains, the vineyards, and the manor-house gardens. There are two restaurants on the estate (the award-winning fine-dining Harvest and the more casual eatery, Taste), as well as the 1970s-style Bar di Bar, offering a selection of craft beers. But who cares about beer when there is wine to be sampled? Laborie produces top-notch Méthode Cap Classique, as well as an estate brandy and a fortified dessert wine. Be sure to try the chocolate-and-wine pairing offered in the tasting room – simply delicious! laboriewines.co.za
For local and international travel arrangements, contact Diners Club Concierge Service on 0861 DINERS (346377), complimentary for those who BELONG.
Text: Rebekah Kendal; Photography: Courtesy Images
