Spier has a special place in my heart. We’ve been to the Stellenbosch-based wine estate twice – the first time also being one of the first times Wikus and I had the guts to leave our eldest with her grandparents for more than one night. (Elian was not born yet).
It’s only natural that our second visit to Spier brought up so many memories and we could not help but feel a little nostalgic. This is also why Spier is the ideal hibernation destination of choice for the winter months, as it has the tendency to lure you into nostalgia without you even noticing.
Red, red wine
Who doesn’t love a glass of red wine beside a cosy fireplace? For me, it is something that goes hand-in-hand with hibernating, which is why Spier’s tasting room is the perfect fit. Or, for those who want to stay in, Spier’s winter package allows for a complimentary bottle of red in your room. Talk about cosy! Cuddle up close and enjoy that book which has been gathering dust beside your bed at home. If you forgot to pack it, don’t worry. Spier’s got plenty of those, as well as boardgames to keep you busy.
If you’re like me, winter comes with a strong craving for a good Glüwein. You can try out Spier’s Glüwein while you’re there, and let me know your thoughts!
Or, opt for their Noble Song Autumn Pairing at the tasting room – a delicious food and wine pairing with Spier Noble Song. This new, limited edition, single varietal red wine range has been expertly crafted without the use of additional sulphur dioxide, making it a unique tasting to try and one worth mentioning for sure. We especially enjoyed the Cabernet Sauvignon and the Shiraz. This autumn tasting is available until the end of May 2022 and bookings are recommended.
READ: Little Fields – Precious family moments in the Midlands
In-room spa treatments at Spier
The previous time we visited Spier, we were treated to a cosy, in-room spa treatment and I was happy to hear that it is still an offering at their lovely hotel. If the start of winter’s got you down, this will certainly make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated in no time.
Explore
With Spier boasting large, outstretched lawns and beautiful gardens, it’s only natural that one would want to explore. Whether it’s a slow stroll or a fun cycling expedition, you’re in for a treat this time of year with the soothing winter sun on your back and the crisp country air, flowing freely through your hair. As a hotel guest, you can even pop in at the tasting room for a complimentary sampling of Spier’s accoladed vintages by the fire.
Spier’s picnics are to die for too and the baskets are always filled to the brim. It’s the perfect way to celebrate South Africa’s wonderful weather (if the Western Cape’s rainy winters allow) and they even have special kiddies’ picnics at R160 per child.
The great thing about these picnics is that they are exclusive and don’t allow visitors to bring their own. This also means that there are ample comfy picnic spots to choose from and a picnic basket that has been thoughtfully prepared with local, natural and organic produce. You can also build your own picnic from the selection at Spier Farm Café.
Also, don’t forget to check out the art around the property. It’s impressive to say the least.
Do good at Spier
With many travellers wanting to be part of something bigger than just experiencing the luxuries of a wine farm, Spier offers you the opportunity to make a difference in their surrounding communities, unleashing positive social and environmental change. You can book activities through their Time For Good initiative, which is something you really don’t want to miss out on. Apart from making a difference, you’ll also make unforgettable memories. The activities include:
- Volunteering in Spier’s food garden,
- Donating essentials to under-resourced schools and the elderly
- Taking a tour through the inspirational Tree-preneurs nursery where they literally make a difference one seedling at a time
- Volunteering at the neighbouring Sustainability Institute
- Getting some education on regenerative agriculture and recycling (while driving your own Segway)
- Venturing raptors into the wild
- Becoming a patron of the arts, and
- Connecting and crafting with local artisans.
Kids are welcome
Although both times we visited Spier were without our kids, every time we visited, we wanted to share certain moments with them. Spier is certainly geared for kids this winter, with various activities for them to take part in. From the famous Club House where there are indoor and outdoor play areas, meetings with feathered friends at Spier’s Eagle Encounters and proper grape juice tastings, to exploring the farm from the back of a bike and learning about the delights of earth, wind, fire and water at the popular Elemental Garden – they will undoubtedly be busy enough to give you ample time to sip on that glass of wine.
PLUS: Between 1 May and 31 August you can get 15% discount on stays at Spier on any night from Sunday through to Thursday and if you choose to stay both nights, you can also get 15% discount for a Friday and Saturday evening. Three-night stays are even better, with a 20% discount for any three nights of the week.
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