Groote Post is a historic 18th century farm on the Cape’s West Coast where the unique aspects and cool climatic conditions of the Darling Hills yield superlative fruit and excellent wines.
Darling’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the vineyards’ elevation, particularly in the high-lying Groenekloof ward, have a significant effect on the grapes grown here, making the Darling region very well suited to the production of cool-climate wines. Hot summer mornings ensure phenolic ripeness, while late afternoon sea breezes cool the vineyards, producing stunning wines with concentrated flavour, depth and intensity.
Groote Post is located on the West Coast Way Tractor Route. The winery is situated in a lovely green valley threaded by the Klawer River, with luxurious lawns and an original, beautifully restored Cape Dutch homestead.
They offer farm drives through the game camp where you’ll be able to spot some of Africa’s indigenous antelope (The Eland, Kudu, Gemsbok, Bontebok, Springbok, Red Hartebeest, Fellow Deer, Ostrich, Black Wildebeest as well as Quagga). You can also enjoy nature walks which are most spectacular in spring as the farm forms part of the famous West Coast Spring Flower Route.
As proud members of the Biodiversity Wine Initiative, owners Peter and Nick Pentz have made a commitment to preserving thousands of hectares of endangered fynbos and to minimise the further loss of threatened natural habitat. Groote Post is also part of the Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve, which stretches from the Milnerton lagoon to Langebaan and inland as far as Darling.
Good food is always on the agenda, either at Aunt Hilda’s Kitchen, which offers modern country cuisine or as a delectable picnic to be enjoyed outdoors on the expansive lawn. Popular as a wedding and function venue, Aunt Hilda’s Kitchen is the only restaurant in South Africa to be nominated by Eat Out 2013 in both “Best Bistro” and “Best Country-Style” categories in its region.
Groote Post also hosts a monthly Country Market brim-full of artisan foods, arts and crafts, home ware and décor, live entertainment, lots of fun activities for kids, and of course, Groote Post’s well-loved wines.
Find Groote Post on the West Coast Way Tractor Route.
Distance from Cape Town: 60km
Groote Post Vineyards: Darling Hills Road, off the R27, Darling
Cellar, Restaurant, Tastings & Sales, open-air kids play area, self-guided walking trail, bird hive, Guided Farm Drives
Open 7 days a week. 9:00 – 15:00
Free wine tasting. For groups larger than 10 a tasting fee applies.
Contact: +27 (0)22 4922825 | www.grootepost.com
More Darling Wines To Explore
Darling Cellars
Situated just next to the train station, darling Cellars offers a very wide range of wines, from entry-level to acclaimed blends, there is something for everyone. Enjoy a relaxed tasting, while the children enjoy the playground or wander through the beautiful garden. You can join them afterwards for a picnic
When: Mon–Fri: 9am – 5pm | Sat: 10am – 2pm
Where: R315
Coordinates: -33.439234, 18.522525
Contact: +27 (0)22 492 2276 | [email protected] | www.darlingcellars.co.za
Cloof Wine Estate
Cloof produces intense, bold-flavoured wines from grapes grown under extreme conditions and their wines include their award-winning Crucible Shiraz (single-vineyard), Very Sexy Shiraz, Cloof Pinotage and some unusual red blends. They also serve delicious tasting room lunches daily.
When: Mon–Sat: 10h00 until 16h00
Where: R315
Contact: +27 (0)22 492 2839| [email protected] | www.cloof.co.za
West Coast Way is Your Route To Nature
West Coast Way is your ultimate gateway to experiencing the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Cape West Coast of South Africa. As a premium tourism brand, we offer six uniquely themed trip plans that promise an unforgettable journey: Cape, Culture, Foodie, Tractor, Berg, and Wild.
Discover over 101 incredible things to see and do with West Coast Way:
Savour the delights of wine, craft beer, olives, and Rooibos tea tastings. Indulge in authentic Weskus cuisine and the traditional braaivleis (barbecue). Feel the thrill of swinging into Citrusdal on a zipline or challenge yourself with Cederberg bouldering. Rejuvenate in natural warm pools and embark on serene cruises across lagoons and rivers. Explore the diverse landscapes of nature reserves and a National Park, or embark on exciting game drives. Hone your skills in archery and angling, or amp up the excitement with sandboarding and quad-biking. Enjoy horse riding, immerse yourself in the unique San culture, and experience the vibrant Riel dancing. For water sports enthusiasts, kite- and windsurfing, surfing, and kayaking trips await. Go beach hopping, learn about bees and whales, and delight in birdwatching in a twitcher’s paradise – all within South Africa’s renowned wildflower reserve.
For more information on the best places to visit on the West Coast, road tripping routes, hikes, tours, and trails, explore westcoastway.co.za or call West Coast Way on 0861 321 777. Follow us on on Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn @WestCoastWaySA.