Experience one of the world’s best vineyards with a comprehensive guide to making the most of your visit to Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate.
When you visit Benguela Cove, you’re not just visiting any wine estate – you’re experiencing one of the world’s best vineyards, with the unique distinction of being South Africa’s only ocean-facing vineyard.
Located just one hour from Cape Town, this WWF Conservation Champion estate offers an unforgettable wine tourism experience that combines award-winning cool-climate wines with breathtaking ocean views.
Why is Benguela Cove Truly Unique?
The impressive stretch of vines is planted at a mere 2.7metres above sea level. This unique marine terroir, combined with the cooling effect of the Benguela Current flowing from Antarctica, creates ideal cool-climate conditions. This distinct environment slows the ripening process, producing the complex, elegant, and 5-star rated wines you won’t find anywhere else in South Africa.
- 100% Estate Grown: Every bottle is grown, produced, and bottled on the estate, guaranteeing premium quality from vine to glass.
- Open Seven Days a Week: They welcome visitors every single day of the week, offering flexibility for your wine tasting trip.
- World-Class Destination: The location in the Walker Bay area ensures an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and naturally stunning.
Planning Your Perfect Day Out / Operating Hours (Tasting Room)
| Season | Daily Opening Hours |
| Spring & Summer | 09:30 – 20:00 |
| Autumn & Winter | 09:30 – 18:00 |
Best Time to Visit
- Photography: Early morning (9:30–10 AM) or late afternoon (3–4 PM) for the best lighting over the ocean-vineyard landscape.
- Intimate Experience: Weekday mornings tend to be quieter, perfect for couples.
- Whale Watching Season: Plan your visit between June and December (peak is often September/October) to spot Southern Right Whales in Walker Bay from the estate.
Signature Wine Tasting Experiences & Pricing
Benguela Cove offers a range of experiences tailored for every enthusiast. Advance reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot.
- Highlights:A guided tasting of 5 award-winning estate wines, focusing on elegant, cool-climate style and the influence of our unique marine terroir.
- Price (Estimate):R220 per person.
- Duration:Approximately 45 minutes.
Chocolate & Wine Pairing (Hippolytas Pairing):
- Highlights: 5 exquisite wine pairings matched with artisanal chocolates. Learn how complementary flavours can perfectly enhance both the wine and the cocoa.
- Price (Estimate):R450 per person.
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
Gourmet Oyster & Wine Pairing:
- Highlights: Freshly shucked local oysters, prepared in four unique styles, perfectly matched with four crisp, marine-influenced estate wines. A true celebration of the coastal location.
- Price (Estimate):R450 per person.
- Duration:Approximately 1 hour.
- Highlights: 5 delicious local cheeses from Klein River, expertly paired with 5 award-winning wines, highlighting regional flavours.
- Price (Estimate):R360 per person.
- Highlights:Go behind the scenes with a fascinating journey into the state-of-the-art cellar. See how their award-winning wines are crafted, followed by a tasting of two wines.
- Price (Estimate):R400 per person.
- Duration:
- Highlights:A 90-minute scenic tour through the unique ocean-facing vineyards. Learn about sustainable viticulture practices and WWF Conservation Champion status, concluding with a complimentary wine tasting.
- Price (Estimate):R795 per adult. | R350 for kids
- Duration:90 minutes.
- Highlights:(Available by request/seasonal schedule) For serious wine enthusiasts, this premium, small-group session offers deep insights into winemaking, often including barrel samples and blending exercises with our cellarmaster.
- Booking: Contact them directly for availability and pricing.
Culinary Options to Complement Your Experience
Enhance your visit with exceptional dining at the on-site venues.
- Moody Lagoon Restaurant:Our flagship venue offers contemporary, seasonal dishes for lunch and dinner with breathtaking lagoon views. (Weekend brunch is also available).
- Artisan Pizzas:Enjoy wood-fired pizzas at the Vineyard Pavilion, perfect for
- something casual.
- Gourmet Picnics: Pre-ordered picnic hampers available. (Book 24 hours in advance).
- Cheese & Charcuterie Boards:Available in the Tasting Room to accompany your wine selection.
Getting Here & Making a Reservation
Benguela Cove is a destination itself, easily reached via a scenic drive from Cape Town.
- Address:R43, Bot River Lagoon, Walker Bay, Hermanus.
- Transport: We highly recommend arranging a designated driver or transport service.
- Accessibility: Ample free parking and wheelchair-accessible facilities are available.
How to Book
While walk-ins are welcome for general tastings, always book in advance for pairings, tours, and restaurant reservations to avoid disappointment.
- Phone for Enquiries/Bookings: 087 357 0637
Ready to book your ultimate wine tasting adventure and discover why Benguela Cove is one of the world’s best vineyards to visit? View all their experiences: https://benguelacove.co.za/collections/experiences
