The Wine Edit
Whether it’s taking in a vineyard vista, discovering culture and history though a guided tasting, or simply enjoying the perfect accompaniment to your meal, travel is best paired with wine.
Keep reading for curated destinations that will satisfy your craving for a vacation celebrating all there is to enjoy about wine.
CAPE WINELANDS, SOUTH AFRICA
If you’re wondering how to mix the adventure of safari with picturesque wine towns, South Africa is the destination for you. The Cape Winelands area is lovely for an overnight stay, but also an easy day trip from Cape Town.
Franschhoek is a Cape Dutch style town where you can easily spend all day at the jaw-dropping, yet family friendly wine estates like Boschendal and Babylonstoren, or vineyard hop using the convenient and charming wine tram. For those staying in Cape Town, this experience provides transportation from the city with your day pass for the tram. Perfect for those who want to explore without getting behind the wheel!
Stellenbosch is a historic university town with great shopping, restaurants, and yes - surrounding vineyards. I personally recommend visiting Delaire Graff Estate for a tasting, which is one of the 4 wine estates visited in this VIP Stellenbosch Wine Tour with transportation from Cape Town.
Delaire Graff Estate, Stellenbosch
DOURO VALLEY, PORTUGAL
The Douro Valley is much more than just the birthplace of Port wine. Its terraced vineyards centered around the Douro River make it a prime vacation destination for those who love quality wine. With the option to stay in a giant wine barrel, Quinta Da Pacheca is an award winning winery with a five star hotel offering a variety of experiences for visitors including a vineyard tour & tasting, picnic, or cooking class. Quinta De La Rosa is a fantastic option for those looking for a more affordable stay with river views. For modern, luxurious relaxation, check out Monverde Wine Experience Hotel. The Charming Double Room features a soaking tub with beautiful vineyard views. For those staying in Porto, Get Your Guide has a variety of Douro day tours with transportation to fit your budget and preferences, don’t miss out on booking a river cruise!
Quinta De La Rosa Winery & Hotel, Douro Valley
CHAMPAGNE, FRANCE
France is the perfect destination for those who love bubbly, as only wines produced within the Champagne region, using specific grapes, and following a strict method, can rightfully bear the name “Champagne”. Travelers can explore charming towns of Reims and Épernay, where cellars stretch for miles beneath the streets. A highlight is the historic Maison Lanson, one of the oldest champagne houses in the region. Known for its fresh, elegant style and unique approach, Lanson offers tours through its vast chalk cellars and educational, yet indulgent tastings that bring their vibrant cuvées to life. If you’re staying in Paris, this day tour with small group or private option includes transportation, visiting 2 prominent champagne houses with tastings, and an indulgent champagne lunch.
EL PRIORAT, SPAIN
Just two hours southwest of Barcelona, nestled in Catalonia’s rugged hills, Priorat is a dream for those who love powerful reds. Visitors can tour family-run cellars, taste wines with local cheeses and olive oils, and wander charming villages like Gratallops or Siurana. It’s also a fantastic area for those who like to stay active on vacation, with scenic roads for cycling and a variety of hiking trails. If you’re looking for a boutique stay with a gorgeous cocktail bar, infinity pool, spa, and luxury suites nestled in the vineyards, look no further than Gran Hotel Mas D’en Bruno. If you’re staying in Barcelona, this day tour includes transportation, touring 2 famous wineries for tastings and stopping for viewpoints and lunch in the small town of Gratallops.
Gran Hotel Mas D’en Bruno, Priorat, Spain
FLO’S TRAVEL TIPS
I’m not a psychic, but I’m pretty confident that if you visit any of these places, you’re going to want to take some wine home. While many wineries have the option to ship by the case, it can be quite expensive. If you’re looking for a more simple and affordable way to bring back a few bottles of your favorite wine, or even olive oil, follow these packing tips…
Use a hard shell suitcase
Leave space and weight for the bottles of wine you plan to bring back (about 3 pounds per bottle)
Bring a few of these padded leak proof wine bags
If you are a frequent traveler and take wine really seriously, you might even consider a VinGardeValise suitcase
YOUR TIME IS PRECIOUS, SPEND IT EXPLORING
