Vergelegen Wine Estate, long renowned for its commitment to protecting history and heritage, has officially been recognised for its innovation, too.
The 324-year-old Somerset West estate scooped the Innovative Wine Tourism Experiences award in the 2025 Best Of Wine Tourism and Wine Tourism Ambassador Awards.
Initiated by Great Wine Capitals 26 years ago, the Best Of Wine Tourism Awards are a key guide for both local and international tourists seeking authentic experiences: from vineyard visits and festivals to exclusive wine tastings.
Environmental and heritage experiences
Vergelegen is home to a 1 900-hectare private nature reserve, with the same conservation status as the Kruger National Park.
Guests can book a guided environmental tour in a game drive vehicle to learn more about the estate’s alien vegetation clearing project, the largest privately funded initiative of its kind in South Africa.
The clearing has led to the return of natural vegetation, birds, mammals and rare and endangered plants. Visitors can see indigenous nguni cattle, bontebok, eland, black wildebeest and rare ‘Rau’ quagga, while learning about the estate’s efforts to provide natural forage for honey bees.
In addition to the environmental tours, Vergelegen offers wine tastings, cellar tours, manor house and garden tours, and a selection of restaurants to suit all ages and budgets.
Award-winning hospitality
“Winning the award is just incredible,” said Wayne Coetzer, Vergelegen’s managing director. “This accolade is an endorsement of our staff who have worked extremely hard to ensure this beautiful estate’s facilities and hospitality are absolutely world-class.
“We pride ourselves on offering true hospitality, which is different from service. Hospitality is about how you make people feel. Every person who comes to this farm must have an incredible experience and feel spoilt.”
Tour information
The environmental tour is weather permitting, departing from the wine tasting centre at 10h00. The duration is two hours, priced at R750 per person, with a maximum of nine people. The cost includes a branded cap, water bottle and a Heritage Range wine tasting.
For bookings, telephone +27 (0) 21 847 2122 or email winetasting@vergelegen.co.za.