Mountain views from Jordan Wine estate.

I stepped out onto the terrace of my suite at the Jordan Wine Estate. The birds chirped excitedly as the sun slowly disappeared behind the hills, blanketing the rows of vines with a soft orange glow. In the distance, the Stellenbosch mountains were a warm pink. It was a such a serene moment and I felt myself relax. Just a 30+ minute drive away from the bustle of Cape Town (map), the Jordan Wine Estate is a little paradise surrounded by expansive vineyards and gentle rolling landscapes. The best part is that guests can spend one or more nights at the Jordan Luxury Suites on the estate grounds, making it perfect for a vineyard stay and a base from which to explore the Stellenbosch winelands.

My stay at the Jordan Wine Estate

I’d just had a few busy days at a conference in Cape Town so I was happy to escape the city for a few days of relaxation, good food and wines.

The vineyards of Jordan Wine Estate.

The estate covers a staggering 164 hectares, with rows of vines stretching across the hillsides in almost all directions. Tucked under a shady cluster of trees, the main buildings of the estate house the cellar, wine-tasting areas, The Bakery and Jordan Restaurant. I drove directly to the reception of the Jordan Luxury Suites and was met by cheerful staff who swiftly checked me in and showed me to my suite.

The Jordan Luxury Suites

I parked my car right outside the suite and walked in to find a spacious lounge complete with a fireplace. Past the lounge, to my left, was a sizeable bathroom with a bath-tub and separate shower stall. I turned to my right and found a large bedroom with a very inviting bed. Both the lounge and the bedroom had doors which opened out onto the terrace and gardens. I knew, right there and then, that this was going to be wonderful stay!

The lounge area in the suite.

The bedroom.

The bathroom.

I found a map on the lounge table with information about hikes around the vineyards and to the top of the surrounding hills. Atop the hills, panoramic views of Stellenbosch, False Bay and Table Mountain awaited. There was also information about other activities such as massages, walks and wine-tasting. I went for a short stroll and soon ended up at the terrace adjacent to The Bakery and Jordan Restaurant. I found a table with a gorgeous view, and ordered a bottle of the estate’s ‘Black Magic’ Merlot and a quiche.

A blissful moment on the Jordan Wine Estate terrace.

As I sipped on the rich, fruity wine and looked at the mountains in the far distance, I couldn’t help but sigh and think of how much I love the Cape Winelands. With its breathtaking mountains, exquisite wines and food, and historic Cape Dutch buildings, this is definitely one of my favourite places in the world.

The terrace with its beautiful panoramic views. This is also where breakfast is served every morning.

Breakfast on the terrace!

Dining at Jordan Restaurant

That evening, I treated myself to a dinner at Jordan Restaurant. I’d heard only great things about the restaurant and its chef, George Jardine, so I made sure I booked a table the second I arrived at the estate. It turned out to be an absolutely sublime meal. Chef Jardine relies only on locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients and adds a sophisticated touch to every dish.

Jordan Restaurant.

I started with the steamed Saldanha Bay mussels – easily the most delicious mussels dish I’ve had in ages! For the main course, I went for the pan-roasted line-caught kabeljou (cod) with baby spinach. The fish was roasted to perfection and the vegetables were very fresh. I paired my meal with a Jardin Inspector Péringuey Chenin Blanc, which was simply divine!

The steamed Saldanha Bay mussels with coconut milk, lemongrass, chili, lime and ginger. Sublime!

The roasted kabeljou (cod) with garlic veloute, baby spinach and crispy onions and capers.

My two days at the Jordan Wine Estate flew by and I emerged feeling very relaxed and glad that I’d found this little, blissful corner of Stellenbosch. If you’re visiting this part of the world, be sure to look up the Jordan Luxury Suites. And check out my post on things to do in Stellenbosch.

Watch the video of my stay at the Jordan Wine Estate:

Jordan Wine Estate, through its in-house travel and destination management company, Nine Yards Travel, also makes travel arrangements for its guests who want to explore other parts of South Africa and neighbouring countris such as Namibia and Botswana. Combining their passion for wines, food and travel, they’re experts in creating tailored experiences for travellers. Do get in touch with them if you’re planning a trip around South/southern Africa.

Note: a big thank you goes to the Jordan Wine Estate and Jordan Luxury Suites for their terrific hospitality. All views shared above are mine, and mine only.