Afternoon tea is a time-honored tradition, but when paired with the breathtaking beauty of South Africa’s Winelands, it becomes a uniquely luxurious experience. The combination of exquisite teas, decadent treats, and stunning vineyard views makes for a memorable experience—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a bit of refinement. Here’s a detailed guide to the finest high teas in the Winelands, where sophistication meets natural beauty, making for the perfect afternoon escape.
1. Leeu Estates: The Best High Tea in the Winelands
The Setting
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Franschhoek valley, Leeu Estates offers an unforgettable high tea experience. The Manor House, with its immaculately restored architecture, provides a stunning setting. The conservatory, with its vast glass windows, offers unobstructed views of the Dassenberg mountains and the meticulously manicured lawns surrounding the estate. You can easily lose track of time as you sip tea while gazing at the dramatic sculpture garden.
The Tea Experience
The high tea at Leeu Estates is a refined affair, beginning with a glass of MĂ©thode Cap Classique (MCC), setting a celebratory tone. A wide selection of organic teas and coffees is available, with something for every palate. The star of the afternoon, however, is the three-tiered tray filled with freshly prepared sweet and savory treats.
Personal Insight: “The Valrhona Jivara chocolate ganache with white chocolate crème diplomate and crispy chocolate tulle took my breath away. Honestly, I would drive all the way back just for those!”
Menu Highlights
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Savory snacks like cucumber and dill finger sandwiches, smoked salmon blinis, and creamy goats’ cheese crostini.
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Sweet indulgences such as macaroons, berry tarts, and chocolate Ă©clairs.
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The showstopper: Valrhona chocolate ganache with crispy chocolate tulle.
Cost and Hours
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Cost: R250 (Adults) | R90 (Children)
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Hours: Monday to Sunday, 2 PM – 5 PM
Contact Information
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Address: Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek, Western Cape
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Phone: +27 21 492 2222
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Website: Leeu Estates
2. The Conservatory, Cavalli Estate, Somerset West
The Setting
Cavalli Estate, located in the Cape Floral Kingdom’s magnificent Helderberg region, is known for its stunning landscapes and exceptional food and wine experiences. The Conservatory, a glass-enclosed dining area, is where the high tea takes place. The space is bright, airy, and offers panoramic views of the sparkling dam and majestic mountains beyond.
The Tea Experience
Chef Michael Deg takes a personal approach to high tea, crafting bespoke spreads based on guest preferences. The experience is a carefully curated indulgence, with a beautiful balance of savory and sweet offerings.
Personal Insight: “I couldn’t help but savor every bite. The combination of salted caramel profiteroles and the strawberry macarons left me dreaming about them for days.”
Menu Highlights
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Finger sandwiches with egg mayonnaise, watercress, gherkin, and gypsy ham.
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Sweet treats like macarons, mini carrot cakes, and chocolate mocha cake.
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Freshly baked buttermilk scones served with strawberry jam and Chantilly cream.
Cost and Hours
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Cost: R280 per person (minimum 10 guests)
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Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12 PM – 3 PM (High Tea); Friday to Saturday, 6 PM – 9 PM (Dinner)
Contact Information
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Address: Cavalli Estate, Strand Road, R44, Somerset West, Western Cape
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Phone: +27 21 855 3281
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Email: [email protected]
3. Le Verger, Le Franschhoek Hotel, Franschhoek
The Setting
Le Franschhoek Hotel is a serene sanctuary in the heart of Franschhoek, surrounded by majestic mountain and vineyard views. The estate offers a variety of venues for enjoying high tea, but the private conservatory is a particularly magical spot. The gentle fragrance of roses fills the air, adding to the overall calming experience.
The Tea Experience
On a warm summer’s day, guests are welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine, making it an even more special occasion. The high tea spread is a delightful journey, beginning with light, savory bites before the sweet treats arrive.
Personal Insight: “The perfectly flaky scones and the chocolate Turkish delights were my personal favorites. Each item felt like a gift from the chef!”
Menu Highlights
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Savory options like salmon blini sandwiches and asparagus with Parma ham.
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Delectable sweets such as double chocolate brownies, lemon-scented scones, and Turkish delights.
Cost and Hours
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Cost: R295 per person
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Hours: Monday to Sunday, 12 PM – 5 PM
Contact Information
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Address: Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa, 16 Minor Road, Franschhoek
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Phone: +27 21 876 8900
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Email: [email protected]
4. Manor Kitchen Restaurant, Lanzerac, Stellenbosch
The Setting
Lanzerac Estate is known for its world-class wine and spa offerings. The Manor Kitchen Restaurant is a sophisticated venue adorned with chandeliers and large windows, offering sweeping views of vineyards and mountains.
The Tea Experience
The high tea at Lanzerac is a sophisticated affair, featuring a mix of sweet and savory treats that reflect the high standards of the estate. The choice of TWG teas adds an element of refinement to the experience.
Personal Insight: “The prawn cocktail in dill and avocado was light and flavorful, and I loved the freshly prepared pastries. Every bite felt like a luxury.”
Menu Highlights
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Savory finger sandwiches with chicken, prawn cocktail, and goat’s cheese.
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Sweet treats such as almond profiteroles, baked cheesecake bites, and raspberry battenberg.
Cost and Hours
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Cost: R280 per person
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Hours: Saturdays, 2 PM – 5 PM
Contact Information
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Address: 1 Lanzerac Road, Stellenbosch, Western Cape
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Phone: +27 21 887 1132
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Email: [email protected]
5. Orangerie Restaurant, Le Lude, Franschhoek
The Setting
At Orangerie Restaurant in Le Lude, guests are treated to magnificent vineyard views and an enchanting rose and herb garden. The interior, with colonial-inspired décor and lush greenery, sets the stage for a truly immersive experience.
The Tea Experience
The high tea at Le Lude starts with a glass of their exceptional Le Lude Brut NV or Brut Rosé NV, followed by a selection of premium Twinings teas. The savory and sweet treats are elegantly presented on a silver-tiered platter.
Personal Insight: “The salted caramel profiteroles were indulgent, and I’ll never forget the delicate fruit tarts—it was the perfect ending to a perfect day.”
Menu Highlights
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Savory items like cucumber dill sandwiches and rare roast beef baguettes.
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Sweet selections such as salted caramel profiteroles, chocolate lamingtons, and fresh fruit tarts.
Cost and Hours
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Cost: R560 for two people (R280 per person)
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Hours: Daily, 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Contact Information
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Address: Bowling Green Avenue, Lambrechts Road, Franschhoek
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Phone: +27 21 100 3464
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Email: [email protected]
6. Anthonij Rupert Tasting Room, Anthonij Rupert Estate, Franschhoek
The Setting
Anthonij Rupert Estate, with its perfectly manicured lawns and stunning mountain views, provides an atmosphere of luxury. The Tasting Room, steeped in history, is the perfect setting for an afternoon tea that blends sophistication with scenic beauty.
The Tea Experience
High tea here is an evolving seasonal affair, with inventive creations that combine both savory and sweet offerings. The experience is made even more special with the option to enjoy sparkling wine along with your tea.
Personal Insight: “The smoked salmon blinis were an unexpected delight, and the cinnamon macarons were the perfect blend of sweet and spicy.”
Menu Highlights
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Savory items like smoked salmon blinis and charcuterie skewers.
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Sweet treats such as cardamom panna cotta, cinnamon macarons, and apple tarts.
Cost and Hours
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Cost: R180 per person (minimum 4 guests)
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Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11 AM – 12:30 PM; 2:30 PM – 4 PM
Contact Information
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Address: R45, Franschhoek, Western Cape
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Phone: +27 21 874 9004
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Email: [email protected]
7. La Paris Bistro & Deli, La Paris Estate, Franschhoek
The Setting
La Paris Estate, located just outside Franschhoek, offers a quaint and charming environment. The bistro, nestled amidst lush gardens, offers indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the high tea experience.
The Tea Experience
La Paris combines traditional English high tea with a modern French twist. The pastries and treats are baked on-site, ensuring a fresh and authentic experience. The tea selection is extensive, catering to every preference.
Personal Insight: “The pistachio and cranberry fudge was unlike anything I’ve had before, and the giant profiteroles were divine!”
Menu Highlights
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Savory items like smoked salmon blinis and fresh sourdough sandwiches.
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Sweet indulgences such as chocolate brownies, macarons, and meringues.
Cost and Hours
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Cost: R290 per person
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Hours: Wednesday to Monday, 8:30 AM – 5 PM
Contact Information
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Address: La Paris Estate, Wemmershoek Road, R301, Franschhoek/Paarl, Western Cape
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Phone: +27 21 867 0171
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Email: [email protected]
8. Bosman’s Restaurant, Grande Roche Hotel, Paarl
The Setting: Bosman’s Restaurant, located at the Grande Roche Hotel in Paarl, offers a sophisticated and serene setting for enjoying one of the finest high tea experiences in the Winelands. Situated on the expansive verandah, guests can indulge in their tea while overlooking sweeping views of lush vineyards, with the towering mountains providing a stunning backdrop. The atmosphere is peaceful and tranquil, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in a calming environment of natural beauty and refined elegance.
The restaurant’s classic charm is enhanced by its historical surroundings. The elegant, spacious verandah offers a perfect vantage point to take in the majestic beauty of the Winelands. Whether you choose to sit inside or out, the combination of breathtaking views and impeccable service will make you feel like royalty.
The Tea: The high tea at Bosman’s Restaurant is an indulgence that promises to delight your senses. As you settle into your seat, a choice of fine teas is offered, ranging from rich black teas to fragrant herbal blends. The tea selection is carefully curated to complement the array of delectable treats that follow.
Your high tea experience is presented on a beautifully arranged three-tiered stand, filled with a variety of savory and sweet treats. The savory selection includes an assortment of bite-sized sandwiches, such as thinly sliced cold meats, cucumber sandwiches, and other seasonal delights. The flavors are fresh, balanced, and perfectly paired with your tea.
The second tier brings the sweet treats, a true highlight of this experience. The sweets are decadent and beautifully crafted, with a selection of bite-sized morsels that are almost too beautiful to eat. Highlights include chocolate Ă©clairs (profiteroles) with a delicate cream filling, moist and spiced carrot cake, peach mousse with poached peach, and a white chocolate-dipped strawberry. Each item is prepared with seasonal ingredients, and the flavors are as vibrant and fresh as the presentation.
Good to Know:
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Bosman’s Restaurant offers personalized service, ensuring that every guest has a special experience. The staff is attentive and accommodating, striking the perfect balance between friendliness and professionalism.
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Dietary preferences are easily catered for with advance notice. The kitchen can provide vegetarian options and other customizations, making this a great choice for those with specific dietary needs.
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Unlike many high tea experiences that serve a set menu, Bosman’s adapts its offerings to the season, using the freshest ingredients available to create a new and exciting experience each time you visit.
Cost:
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R245 per person
Opening Times:
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Monday – Sunday: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where to Find It:
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1 Plantasie Street, Paarl, Western Cape
Contact Information:
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Phone: 021 863 5100
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Email: [email protected]
Important Notes:
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The Grande Roche Hotel closes for annual maintenance every June, so be sure to check ahead before booking.
Final Thoughts
The Winelands offer some of the most picturesque settings for an afternoon tea, with each estate bringing its own unique flair and style to the table. Whether you’re looking for a traditional experience or a more modern twist on the classic tea, you’ll find it in the Winelands. With scenic views, exceptional service, and delectable treats, each location offers something extraordinary.
Pro Tip: When planning your visit, make sure to book in advance, as many of these estates require reservations, especially for larger groups. Keep in mind that some places have minimum guest numbers for high tea, so check their requirements beforehand to avoid any disappointment.
Disclaimer: WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location.
