If you’re a wine lover who can’t bear to leave your furry friend behind, Stellenbosch offers a variety of dog-friendly wine farms where both you and your canine companion can enjoy the beautiful scenery, exceptional wines, and warm hospitality. Here’s a roundup of some top dog-friendly wine estates in the region.
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Bellevue Wine Estate
Bellevue Wine Estate is an iconic winery that promises a delightful experience for every member of the family, including your four-legged friends. Renowned for its award-winning wines, casual dining, and children’s play areas, Bellevue is steeped in South African wine history. This estate is especially famous for producing the world’s first commercially bottled Pinotage, making it a must-visit for wine aficionados.
Initially a livestock farm, Bellevue transitioned into a pivotal site for commercial Pinotage cultivation in South Africa. Under the guidance of Dirkie Morkel and Wilhelm Kritzinger, Bellevue produces award-winning wines using innovative production methods.
Visitors can enjoy wine tastings in a welcoming environment, explore the historical vineyards, and purchase some of their exceptional wines directly from the tasting room. You can also have pizza, nachos and a selection of platters to accompany your wine.
Knorhoek Wine Farm and Guesthouse
Located along the R44 wine farm route, Knorhoek Wine Farm is a family-friendly paradise that warmly welcomes dogs. Spanning two hundred hectares of working wine farmland, this estate is perfect for exploring and relaxing. Knorhoek produces a selection of fine wines and offers a deli with farm-fresh products, B&B and self-catering accommodations, and facilities for country weddings and events.
Day visits to Knorhoek provide a refreshing blast of country air, but a weekend getaway allows the whole family, including your furry friend, to fully enjoy the expansive grounds. Knorhoek’s accommodations include both bed & breakfast and self-catering options, with breakfast served daily and lunch available at the restaurant.
Bring your dog along for a fun-filled morning hike, a leisurely lunch, or an extended stay. Just give prior notice to the Knorhoek Guesthouse to ensure your pet is welcomed with open paws. A wagging tail and friendly woof are always appreciated at Knorhoek.
Warwick Wine Estate
Situated in the foothills of Stellenbosch’s iconic Simonsberg Mountain, Warwick Wine Estate offers a perfect blend of elements that produce grapes of outstanding quality. The estate is committed to protecting and nurturing its land, ensuring its wines reflect the true character of its origin. Each bottle tells a part of the Warwick story, making every sip an experience.
Visitors can enjoy wine tastings paired with charcuterie, cheese, or vegan platters, either indoors, on the tasting deck or at the picnic benches. Warwick’s “Vineyard Safaris” are a standout feature, offering open-top tours through their ‘big five’ vineyards (the grapes, not the animals) with sparkling wine along the way. Whether you’re there for a tasting, a vineyard safari, or to host an event, Warwick Wine Estate is a fantastic destination for you and your four-legged friend.
Middelvlei Wine Estate
Known for its hospitality and unique farm atmosphere, Middelvlei Wine Estate offers a truly memorable Stellenbosch Winelands experience for the entire family. Run by brothers Tinnie and Ben Momberg, Middelvlei continues a family legacy of winemaking that spans over 100 years. The estate is renowned for producing high-quality wines that visitors can enjoy in a variety of settings.
Relax under the veranda in summer or cosy up by the fireplace in winter with Middelvlei wines paired with their special Braai Tapas. The estate also hosts corporate events, conferences, and celebrations, ensuring every detail is taken care of. Accommodation is available, making it easy to extend your visit.
Dogs are welcome at Middelvlei, provided they are on a lead. Puppies that can carry a bottle of wine are especially appreciated!
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, these dog-friendly wine farms in Stellenbosch offer a perfect blend of fine wine, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality. So pack your bags, grab your leash, and head out to explore the best that Stellenbosch has to offer with your furry friend by your side. Cheers to a pawsome adventure!
If your favourite pet-friendly wine farm has not been listed in this article please comment below!
