Explore Groot Constantia

Article published at: Oct 7, 2025 Article author: Toine Swart Article tag: Groot Constantia Wine Tasting
Explore Groot Constantia
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Explore Groot Constantia – South Africa’s Oldest Wine Estate

Steeped in over 335 years of winemaking heritage, Groot Constantia is South Africa’s oldest wine-producing estate and one of Cape Town’s most cherished historical landmarks. Nestled in the heart of the Constantia Wine Valley, just 25 minutes from the city centre, it offers the perfect blend of heritage, nature, and world-class wines.

Stroll through vineyards framed by oak trees, enjoy fine dining, visit the museum, and taste award-winning wines in a setting that captures the timeless charm of the Cape.


🍷 What to Do at Groot Constantia

🍇 Wine Tasting

  • Visit one of the estate’s two tasting rooms — the Cloete Cellar and Production Cellar.

  • Sample five award-winning wines and learn from knowledgeable hosts.

  • Take home your souvenir wine glass or order bottles shipped directly to you.

🏺 Cellar Tours

  • Join a guided cellar tour for a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process.

  • Tours run hourly from 10:00 to 16:00 daily.

  • Explore the fermentation area, barrel cellar, and production facilities while discovering the craft behind each bottle.

🌳 Estate Walks

  • Enjoy peaceful walking trails through the vineyards and landscaped gardens.

  • The estate is pet-friendly — dogs on leashes are welcome.

  • Scenic viewpoints and shaded benches offer perfect picnic stops.

🍽️ Dining

  • Indulge in Cape cuisine at one of the estate’s two exceptional restaurants:

    • Jonkershuis Restaurant – Traditional Cape Malay–inspired dishes with vineyard and False Bay views.

    • Simon’s at Groot Constantia – Elegant dining in a restored wine cellar with alfresco seating.

🏛️ History & Heritage

  • Visit the Manor House Museum, showcasing the estate’s fascinating history and early Cape architecture.

  • Discover artefacts and exhibitions detailing the origins of South African winemaking.

  • Don’t miss the Cloete Cellar Museum, home to historic tools, bottles, and memorabilia.

🚍 Sightseeing Connections

  • Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Bus stops at Groot Constantia daily.

  • Combine your visit with Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Constantia Village, or the Cape Peninsula Route.


🍴 Dining on the Estate

Jonkershuis Restaurant

📞 Tel: +27 (0)21 794 6255
📧 Email: info@jhuis.co.za
🌐 Web: www.jonkershuisconstantia.co.za

  • Located in the historic heart of the estate, surrounded by oaks and vineyards.

  • Menu: Cape Malay–inspired dishes, South African breakfasts, and seasonal plates.

  • Open daily for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and light meals.

  • Ideal for: weddings, private functions, and corporate events.

Simon’s at Groot Constantia

📞 Tel: +27 (0)21 794 1143
📧 Email: info@simons.co.za
🌐 Web: www.simons.co.za

  • Housed in a restored wine cellar, offering indoor and outdoor dining.

  • Menu: from light lunches to gourmet dinners using fresh, local ingredients.

  • Capacity: up to 400 guests — ideal for large celebrations and weddings.


🚗 Getting to Groot Constantia

By Car (from Cape Town City Bowl)

  • Take the N2 / Nelson Mandela Boulevard and follow signs to Muizenberg.

  • Merge onto De Waal Drive (M3) heading south.

  • Take Exit 14 for M41 / Constantia Main Road.

  • Turn left onto Constantia Main Road and continue for 2.9 km.

  • Follow signs to Groot Constantia Wine Estate.

Alternative Transport

  • Uber, Bolt, or taxis operate citywide and can drop you directly at the entrance.

  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus stops at Groot Constantia — an easy, scenic option for visitors without a car.


💰 Wine Tasting & Tour Fees

(Valid 1 October 2024 – 30 September 2025)

Visitor’s Route Experience – R180 per person

Includes:

  • Access to the Manor House Museum and Cloete Cellar

  • Guided or self-guided cellar tour (hourly from 10:00–16:00)

  • Tasting of 5 wines of your choice

  • Souvenir branded wine glass

Visitor’s Route + Chocolate & Wine Pairing – R285 per person

Includes:

  • Access to the Museum and Cloete Cellar

  • Guided or self-guided cellar tour (hourly from 10:00–16:00)

  • 5 premium wines paired with 5 handcrafted chocolates

  • Souvenir branded wine glass

Wine Tasting Only – R155 per person

Includes:

  • Tasting of 5 wines of your choice

  • Souvenir branded wine glass

Chocolate & Wine Pairing Only – R230 per person

Includes:

  • 5 wines paired with 5 handmade chocolates

  • Souvenir branded wine glass


🎟️ Tickets available via Webtickets, Dineplan, or directly at the estate.
📧 Group bookings: bookings@grootconstantia.co.za


🛍️ Shopping at Groot Constantia

The Wine & Gift Shop

  • Located near the tasting rooms, this boutique store showcases the estate’s heritage and modern craftsmanship.

  • Shop for homeware, kitchenware, apparel, accessories, and gourmet products — many designed exclusively for Groot Constantia.

Heritage Design

  • Vintage photographs line the walls, telling the story of the estate’s past.

  • The shop celebrates both South African creativity and European-inspired elegance.

Wine & Souvenirs

  • Taste and purchase wines directly at the Cloete Cellar or Production Cellar.

  • Find unique gifts such as branded glassware, olive oil, and preserves.

Worldwide Shipping


💡 Travel Tips

  • Best visiting time: Late morning or early afternoon for mild temperatures and vineyard views.

  • Duration: Set aside 2–3 hours to enjoy tastings, lunch, and a walk.

  • Dress code: Smart casual; comfortable shoes recommended.

  • Accessibility: Main areas are wheelchair and stroller friendly.

  • Pet-friendly: Dogs allowed on leashes in outdoor spaces.

  • Weather: Sunny days are ideal — winter brings a lush, green landscape.


A visit to Groot Constantia is a journey through time, taste, and tradition. From the rich aroma of its cellars to the timeless elegance of its manor house, every corner tells a story.

Enjoy fine wine, Cape cuisine, and serene scenery — all in one unforgettable destination that embodies the very best of the Cape Winelands.

Whether you come for history, flavour, or simple beauty, Groot Constantia promises an experience as timeless as its vines.

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