Still fresh from the city and with a packed itinerary, we arrived at De Doornkraal Vinotel on the morning of Tour My Province Hessequa Edition Day 2 – not knowing what to expect.
And suddenly, we were in an oasis.
Mature, restful trees shaded the grounds, outdoor seating invited us to pause, and a sparkling pool reflected the calm of the day. It was impossible not to exhale and slow down.
A Breakfast to Savor
Inside the Aan’t Vette Country Kitchen, the breakfast table was beautifully laid out. Yoghurts, fresh fruits, cereals, juices, cheeses, deli meats, pastries, and nuts – awaited us. Cappuccinos were served on arrival, followed by a hot breakfast made from the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. We were offered a choice between the full bacon, sausage and egg breakfast, or a delicious omelet prepared with the day’s freshest offerings.
“Because I don’t eat pork, the team created a vegetable gratin rosti for me, served with eggs, extra mushrooms, tomatoes, and toast – utterly delicious,” said Elle Williams
Every bite was a reminder of food grown slowly, with care and love.
To finish, we enjoyed the pastry and cheese selection alongside our cappuccinos. It was the perfect start to the day – a moment to pause, savor, and appreciate the slower rhythm of rural life.
An Afternoon of Wine Tasting
Later in the afternoon, we returned to De Doornkraal Vinotel for a complimentary wine tasting. The vineyard, the smallest in South Africa, is nestled right across the street from the hotel. At just 1.22 hectares, it manages to produce over 10,000 bottles a year!
We sampled the 2019 and 2021 Syrah and the 2018 Blanc de Noir, which won a Veritas award. The estate grows only Syrah grapes; the Blanc de Noir comes from the second press. It’s an easy-drinking dry Rosé wine that pairs well with almost anything, while the Syrah is rich, versatile, and full of character.
Each glass felt like a conversation with the land. The tasting was relaxed and unhurried, allowing us to savor the nuances of each wine while enjoying the tranquil estate surroundings.
It’s a reminder that De Doornkraal isn’t just a place to stay – it’s a destination to pause, taste, and enjoy the simple pleasures of Riversdale.
Plan Your Visit
Long Street, Riversdale – just off the N2.
Book a breakfast, stay overnight, or enjoy a wine tasting. Visit the website for more information. To book, e-mail info@dedoornkraal.com or call + 27 28 713 3838. Wine tasting by appointment only.