As winter draws on, the mind naturally wanders to thoughts of a snug haven, a place where the warmth of a roaring fire dances in harmony with the symphony of fine food and wine. And there's no place that fits the bill quite like Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate. Perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, in the Walker Bay region of South Africa, this gem on the Hermanus Wine Route offers a wine tourism experience that's nothing short of extraordinary. 

Picture this: you wake up in the plush comfort of Benguela Cove accommodation. Each villa is a masterpiece, complete with log fires, en-suite bedrooms, a private pool, and Wi-Fi. The secure residential area offers peace of mind that's as refreshing as the morning dew. The estate's hospitality area is a centre of the fun, boasting an oyster bar, the Moody Lagoon Restaurant, and a smorgasbord of wine tastings. 

The transformation of this once-struggling Hermanus wine farm into an award-winning wine producer and hospitality venue is the handiwork of Penny Streeter OBE. In 2013, she breathed new life into the estate, and the result is a testament to her vision and dedication. The special climatic conditions here create a sublime setting for visitors and a special terroir to produce some of the best South African wines. 

Benguela Cove is not just a wine estate, but also a top holiday destination. An hour’s drive from Cape Town International Airport and close to Hermanus, it is renowned worldwide for whale-watching tourism. The estate is framed by majestic mountains and panoramic views of the Botrivier Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, creating a stunning first impression that is sure to take your breath away. 

WWF Conservation Champion

The estate is also a World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF) Conservation Champion, located in the UNESCO-designated Kogelberg Biosphere nature reserve. This commitment to conservation makes it a haven for rare birds and other wildlife, sustained by a vineyard team determined to farm as naturally as possible, in harmony with nature. 

The estate's oceanside location offers a new dimension to wine tourism. Guests can enjoy a pontoon cruise on the tranquil lagoon, experiencing the symmetry of magnificent views, food, and wine. This unique experience, combined with the estate's other offerings, makes Benguela Cove a standout among wine farms in the Western Cape. 

Visiting the winery, there is a choice of wine tastings, including pairings with cheese, charcuterie, or chocolate. Gastronomes can try the signature wine and oyster pairing, a testament to the estate's commitment to offering unique and memorable experiences. 

The winery itself is a marvel, housing both traditional and the latest winemaking methods for the estate’s main grape cultivars. With roaring log fires in the wintertime, grand chandeliers, the 400-ton, gravity-fed winery was innovatively designed, further testament to the estate's commitment to quality and innovation. 

For a full day’s enjoyment, guests can dine at the estate’s Moody Lagoon Restaurant, one of the best restaurants in Hermanus. Here, local produce is celebrated. The menu is a testament to the rich culinary culture of the region. Most recently, the estate added a seafood and oyster bar to the range of dining options, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers and further cementing its reputation as one of the best places for a birthday meal or other celebration outside of Cape Town. 

Children are very welcome at Benguela Cove. In the summertime the on-site Pirate Adventure Golf Course and Splash Pad ensure that the little ones are entertained, making the estate a kid-friendly wine farm. This commitment to family-friendly fun sets Benguela Cove apart from other wine farms near Hermanus, making it a destination that truly caters to all. 

Entertainment 2023

Imagine starting your weekend with a touch of indulgence at the estate's Moody Lagoon Restaurant. Every Saturday and Sunday until the 31st of December, you can savour a leisurely brunch accompanied by Bottomless Bubbly or Mimosas. It's the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the serene surroundings of one of the best restaurants in Hermanus. 

The estate's programme also features Live Music Sundays, a treat for music and food lovers alike. From 10:00 to 17:00, guests can enjoy a brunch or leisurely lunch while being serenaded by live jazz performances. It's a fun day out for friends and family, and a unique way to experience the estate's offerings. 

On the 3rd of September, Benguela Cove invites you to join the Race to the Sea. This exhilarating 100-mile (165km) race culminates at the stunning Hermanus location. After the race, riders and visitors can relax and rejuvenate in one of the luxury villas, part of the unique Benguela Cove accommodation. 

The arrival of spring is a cause for celebration, and what better way to do so than with a Spring Winemakers' Lunch on the 9th of September? Chef Anne Badenhorst and estate winemaker Johann Fourie will host a dining experience that showcases the best of the season's flavours. It's a culinary journey that is not to be missed. 

Finally, from the 10th to the 28th of September, Benguela Cove will be live-streaming the Rugby World Cup 2023. Visitors can watch South Africa in action from the comfort of premium seating at the estate. Immerse yourself in the thrilling atmosphere of the world's most prestigious rugby tournament, all within the tranquil setting of Benguela Cove. 

So why should you visit Benguela Cove this winter? The answer is simple. It's a place where you can relax, unwind, and indulge in some of the finer things in life. Whether you're a wine connoisseur, a foodie, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for a unique getaway, Benguela Cove has something to offer you. 

In the words of the owner, Penny Streeter: "Guests tell us there's a certain magic to the place, a charm that's hard to define. But once you've experienced it, you'll find it hard to stay away." So why wait? Book your visit to Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate today and experience the magic for yourself.