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Groot Constantia

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Historical site
—°13
Groot Constantia (South Africa)

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Groot Constantia is the oldest wine-producing estate in South Africa and a quintessential example of Cape Dutch architecture. It was established in 1685 by Simon van der Stel, the first Governor of the Cape Colony, who recognized the agricultural potential of the land at the foot of the Constantiaberg mountains. The manor house, with its iconic ornate gables and whitewashed walls, is a National Monument and currently houses a portion of the Iziko South African Museum. A major historical feature is the Cloete Cellar, built in 1791, which is famous for its elaborate pediment sculpture created by Anton Anreith. The estate became world-renowned in the 18th and 19th centuries for its sweet Constantia wine, which was favored by European royalty and Napoleon Bonaparte. Despite a devastating fire in 1925, the manor house was carefully restored to its former glory. Today, Groot Constantia remains a top destination for wine lovers and history enthusiasts, preserving centuries of heritage alongside modern viticulture. Its ancient oak-lined avenues and historic outbuildings offer a window into the colonial past of the Cape.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C212220181513121213161820
Rain mm201525487113512412162474621

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Groot Constantia wine estate is open daily to visitors; the manor house houses a museum. The wine cellars can be visited on a guided tour.
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Typical hours
Open 9 am to 5 pm, wine tastings usually until 4:30 pm. Holiday hours may differ; advance booking is recommended.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in the museum without flash; lighting is tricky in the cellars. The gardens and vineyards offer great outdoor shots.
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Time needed
Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the estate tour and wine tasting. Those exploring the museum thoroughly need about 3 hours.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden and the Cape of Good Hope. The nearby Constantia beaches are also worth a detour.
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Getting there
The estate is in the Constantia Valley, about 20 minutes by car from Cape Town city centre. Ample parking is available; city buses stop nearby.
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Insider tip
Book the wine tasting in advance, especially on weekends. Also try the famous Constantia dessert wine, one of the oldest wines in South Africa.

Geography

Coordinates
-34.03050, 18.42390

Facts

  • Date of establishment: 13 July 1685 by Simon van der Stel.
  • The Cloete Cellar was added to the estate in 1791.
  • Napoleon Bonaparte requested 30 liters of Constantia wine monthly.
  • The manor house was severely damaged by fire in 1925.
  • It is the oldest functioning wine estate in the Southern Hemisphere.
  • The estate was declared a National Monument in 1936.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Kirstenbosch Botanical GardensKirstenbosch Botanical Gardens5 km · NExplore →
Hout BayHout Bay7 km · WExplore →
Table MountainTable Mountain8 km · NExplore →
LlandudnoLlandudno8 km · WExplore →
Rhodes MemorialRhodes Memorial9 km · NExplore →
District SixDistrict Six11 km · NExplore →
Fish HoekFish Hoek11 km · SExplore →
Bird of Prey Rehab CenterBird of Prey Rehab Center12 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Groot Constantia (13)

Groot Constantia Manor House🏛 museum

Designed by architect Louis Michel Thibault, this grand museum showcases the rich history of South Africa's oldest wine estate.

🕒 Mo-Su 10:00-17:00💶

Muizenberg Hebrew Congregation⛪ religious

The Muizenberg Hebrew Congregation, also known as the Muizenberg Shul, is a Jewish place of worship serving the local coastal community.

Chapman's Peak🌿 nature

Chapman's Peak is a prominent coastal mountain on the western side of the Cape Peninsula, famous for the scenic marine drive carved into its steep flanks.

Zandvlei Estuary Nature Reserve🌿 nature

The Zandvlei Estuary Nature Reserve protects a vital wetland ecosystem providing a sanctuary for numerous bird species near the False Bay coastline.

World of Birds🎡 recreation

World of Birds is a large wildlife sanctuary and monkey park in Hout Bay, housing hundreds of species in walk-through aviaries.

🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-17:00💶

Norval Foundation🏛 museum

The Norval Foundation is an art gallery dedicated to the research, exhibition, and preservation of 20th- and 21st-century visual art from South Africa and beyond.

🕒 Mo 10:00-17:30, We-Su 10:00-17:30♿

Klein-Tuinkop🌿 nature

Klein-Tuinkop is a mountain peak situated in the rugged terrain of the Cape Peninsula.

Sandy Bay Beach🎡 recreation

Sandy Bay Beach is a secluded coastal stretch known for its pristine white sands and its status as a popular nudist beach.

Old Lookout🏺 historical

The Old Lookout is a set of stone ruins on the hillside that once served as a strategic observation point over the bay.

Masque Theatre🎭 culture

The Masque Theatre is a spirited community performing arts venue staging amateur and professional theatrical productions.

Aquarium Boulders📍 landmark

Aquarium Boulders is a cluster of large rocks providing popular and challenging routes for outdoor bouldering enthusiasts.

Circuit Boulder📍 landmark

Circuit Boulder is a specific rock formation favored by climbers for its continuous traversing routes.

Shady Nook Bouldering📍 landmark

Shady Nook Bouldering features a shaded rocky outcrop convenient for climbing practice during the heat of the day.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you do wine tastings on-site?
Yes, Groot Constantia is famous for its excellent wine tastings.
Are there guided tours?
Yes, guided tours of the manor house and wine cellar are offered.
Is it family-friendly?
Very, the grounds are large and invite walking.
When is the best time?
The summer months are handy to enjoy the estate and vineyards.
Is there a restaurant there?
Yes, there are several high-quality restaurants on the estate.
Groot Constantia: where is it located?
Groot Constantia is located in South Africa.
Groot Constantia: what is there to see?
Highlights include Groot Constantia Manor House, Muizenberg Hebrew Congregation, Chapman's Peak.
Groot Constantia: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Groot Constantia: why is it worth visiting?
Groot Constantia is the oldest wine-producing estate in South Africa and a quintessential example of Cape Dutch architecture.
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Nearby cities

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George — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
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Worcester — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
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The economic hub of the Breede River Valley is surrounded by mountains and produces a large portion of the country's wine.
Stellenbosch — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
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The second-oldest European settlement in the country is world-famous for its university and surrounding vineyards.
Mossel Bay — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Mossel Bay
This harbor town marks the official southern end of the Garden Route and has a rich maritime history.
Oudtshoorn — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Oudtshoorn
The 'Ostrich Capital of the World' is situated in the Little Karoo and is famous for the nearby limestone caves.
Knysna — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Knysna
A picturesque coastal town on the Garden Route, situated on a large lagoon and surrounded by dense forests.
Saldanha — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Saldanha
The town on the West Coast is known for its deep natural harbor and iron ore processing.
Hermanus — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Hermanus
The world's premier land-based whale watching destination, situated along the scenic Walker Bay.
Beaufort West — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Beaufort West
The oldest town in the Central Karoo is a major stopover on the route between Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Plettenberg Bay — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Plettenberg Bay
A premier coastal destination on the Garden Route, famous for its pristine beaches, lagoons, and diverse marine life.
Franschhoek — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Franschhoek
The culinary capital of South Africa, set in a picturesque valley with deep French roots and world-class wine estates.
Montagu — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Montagu
A historic town on Route 62 known for its hot springs, dried fruit, and dramatic mountain scenery.
Gansbaai — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Gansbaai
The shark-diving capital of the world and a premier destination for whale watching along a rugged, scenic coastline.

History & landmarks

Cape Town City Hall — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Cape Town City Hall
A large Edwardian building situated in the center of Cape Town on the Grand Parade.
Cape Town Stadium — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Cape Town Stadium
An iconic sports stadium situated in Green Point, with stunning views of Table Mountain and the ocean.
Swellendam — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Swellendam
South Africa's third oldest town, featuring stunning Cape Dutch architecture at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains.
Prince Albert — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Prince Albert
An architectural jewel at the foot of the Swartberg Pass, famous for its Victorian houses and olive groves.
Tulbagh — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Tulbagh
A historic valley famous for its perfectly restored Cape Dutch architecture on Church Street and fine wines.
Clanwilliam — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Clanwilliam
A gateway to the Cederberg Mountains and the world's Rooibos tea capital, steeped in history and natural beauty.

More places

Port of Cape Town — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Port of Cape Town
A major seaport situated along one of the world's busiest trade routes, renowned for fresh produce export.
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens — Groot Constantia (South Africa)
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Beautiful garden on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, perfect for families.