I can’t imagine anything more wonderful than going to the Cape for a weekend of wine tasting in addition to an expertly guided whale viewing excursion. For Joburgers, July is usually the time for a winter bush getaway, but I think that this year I am going to make a change and treat myself and my family to seeing some wildlife of the aquatic variety. I am told that never a year goes by that the Cape Agulhas region doesn't produce magnificent wines. And every year hundreds of Southern Right whales come to the breeding waters off the coast of the De Hoop nature and marine reserve to calve, adding a spectacular dimension to the view.

Having swum thousands of kilometers from their summer feeding grounds in icy Antarctica, the first of this year's Southern Right whale visitors have arrived at the De Hoop marine reserve, in the Western Cape. Almost half of this species’ total population settle themselves into the warmer winter waters of the Indian ocean along the Cape coast, to mate, calve and raise their young.

The management of De Hoop has ingenuously combined these two Cape treasures into an unusual, indulgent and insightful Wine and Whales weekend taking place from 27-29 July. Hosts from Cape Agulhas region wine estates Black Oyster Catcher; Creation; Jean Daneel; Quion Rock; The Berrio; Zoetendal; Lomond; Brunia Strandveld/First Sighting and Lands End will offer guests several opportunities for tasting and interaction. On Saturday, they are invited to sample the vineyard produce of the various estates under the shade of the century-old fig tree in the De Hoop estate courtyard. Further wine tasting follows with canapés at sunset and the evening sees a sumptuous dinner prepared by the De Hoop culinary team, accompanied by wine pairing.

On Sunday morning, an interpretative marine walk is scheduled, with resident guides who have a rare passion and deep knowledge of the hidden rock pool life of this piece of pristine coastline and a brunch.

Always on hand will be leading whale authority, Wilfred Chivel from Dyer Island Conservation Trust, ready to guide you on your discovery of this endangered Whale species.

About the De Hoop Collection
The De Hoop Collection opened in the De Hoop Nature Reserve in 2008 under the creative and entrepreneurial hands of Carl Trieloff and William Stephens, working closely with Cape Nature to present travellers with a unique and natural offering. In a spectacular setting, with conservation aspects managed by Cape Nature, the reserve offers a wide range of accommodation types designed to suit all budgets. Visitors to the De Hoop Collection enjoy unparalleled peace and tranquillity in what must be one of the Cape’s last unspoiled gems.
Accommodation: The De Hoop Collection offers a wide range of accommodation options, catering to families travelling on a limited budget, couples seeking a comfortable but affordable breakaway or international guests looking for a top-end luxury experience. From camping and caravanning sites and affordable self-catering rondawels to more luxurious self-catering cottages and five-star fully catered lodges, there is something for everyone.
Bookings: Reservations can be made a t 021-422 4522 or res@dehoopcollection.co.za, www.dehoopcollection.co.za