Hemel & Aarde Valley Wine Route
Hemel & Aarde Valley
Cradled between the coastal town of Hermanus and the Overberg Mountains, the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley (meaning “Heaven and Earth” in Afrikaans) is one of South Africa’s most celebrated wine regions. Known for its cool maritime climate and diverse terroir, the valley offers ideal conditions for producing premium Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, often compared to Burgundy in style and elegance.
Besides its world-class wines, Hemel-en-Aarde is also a haven for food lovers, nature enthusiasts, and art seekers. The valley is dotted with boutique wineries, fine-dining restaurants, art galleries and scenic hiking & cycling trails.
Hemel & Aarde Wine Route Experience
For a relaxing and wine-filled experience, many would suggest taking a day or so to enjoy the picturesque Hemel & Aarde Valley. Thanks to the fertile soil and unique climate, the wine farms have – especially over the past two decades – transformed the area into a wine cornucopia with vineyards stretching along the entirety of the Valley.
The Valley itself boasts over 15 renowned wine farms, most of which fall under the Official Wine Route. These farms all offer their visitors a variety of celebrated and award-winning wines that are usually paired with specialised canapés or accompany delicious meals and desserts. For those wishing to enjoy more than a few of these wineries’ wares, it’s suggested that a shuttle be organised to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, with the added bonus of having an official tour guide to explain the history and growth of the area and farms.
Popular Wine Farms in Hemel & Aarde
Bouchard Finlayson
Tel: 028 312 3515
Nestled between folded mountains and Walker Bay, the Koue Bokkeveld shale soil and cool ocean breezes ensure our grapes ripen slowly and grow steadily to produce intense flavours for our internationally award-winning wines. Our cellar is open for wine tastings daily, Monday – Sunday. We also offer delicious grazing platters, picnics, cellar tours and bespoke vintage tastings by appointment, and self-guided hikes through the pristine fynbos on our property.
Creation Wines
Tel: +27 28 212 1107
Just minutes from the Windsor Hotel lies one of South Africa’s most celebrated wineries, Creation Wines, nestled in the breathtaking Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge. Here, where “Heaven and Earth” meet, cool Atlantic breezes nurture award-winning Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs that have earned global acclaim.
Hamilton Russell
Tel: +27 28 312 3595
We are the pioneering 170 hectare Wine Estate in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, just behind the old seaside resort town of Hermanus. At closest the cold South Atlantic is only 1,500 meters from our Estate. Direct sales are not a focus for the Estate, but visitors can taste the wines at a beautiful historic cottage near the wine cellars, overlooking a lake teeming with birdlife.
Hasher Family Vineyards
Tel: +27 78 349 5402
Indulge in an authentic wine farm experience at Hasher Family Wines, where a homely tasting room opened in December 2023, inviting you to savour a curated selection of wines, locally-roasted coffee, and artisanal cheese boards. Cozy up by the fire on chilly days or bask in the tranquility of the expansive lawns on warm afternoons – this welcoming retreat promises to delight the senses and soothe the soul, welcoming the whole family for an escape from the bustle of life.
Newton Johnson
Tel: +27 28 312 3862
Magnificent, sprawling views over the valley and the Atlantic ocean beyond, yearn for you to linger over that opulent glass of wine or delectable cuisine from the restaurant. The spacious tasting room allows you to roam, perhaps relax in the pavilion lounge, and drink in the gorgeous views of the valley, mountains and sea. Our highly respected restaurant offers an enduring gastronomic experience, using the best local produce and foraged ingredients.
Hemel en Aarde Wines
Hemel-en-Aarde is widely regarded as one of the most exciting wine areas in South Africa and one of the most beautiful. To many, it is the place for fine, restrained, classically styled South African Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Falling within the Walker Bay “District”, It is comprised of three contiguous “Wine Wards” located behind the historic seaside resort town of Hermanus, surrounded by nature reserves, overlooking the cool South Atlantic Walker Bay.
