Welcome to L’Avenir Country Lodge and Wine Estate!

You are about to embark on a delightful journey through our charming retreat and vineyard. At L’Avenir, we pride ourselves on creating an exceptional experience for our guests. Whether you are seeking a tranquil escape or an adventure-filled getaway, we have something for everyone.

Picture yourself waking up to breathtaking views of vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. As you step outside, you are welcomed by the soothing sounds of nature and the scent of blooming flowers. The serenity of our surroundings will whisk you away to a world of pure relaxation.

When it comes to accommodations, we offer a variety of options to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a cozy room in the main lodge or a private cottage nestled in the vineyard, we have the perfect space for you. Our comfortable and luxurious accommodations are designed with your utmost comfort in mind.

As a wine estate, we take great pride in our vineyards and the exquisite wines they produce. You are invited to join us on a journey of the senses as you explore our vineyard, learn about the art of winemaking, and indulge in tastings of our award-winning wines. Our knowledgeable staff will guide you through the process, ensuring you have a truly memorable experience.

At L’Avenir, we believe that food and wine are meant to be enjoyed together. Indulge in a delectable culinary experience at our on-site restaurant, where our talented chefs will delight your taste buds with their creative and flavorful dishes. Each meal is carefully crafted to complement the unique characteristics of our wines, resulting in a truly harmonious dining experience.

As you explore our estate, you will discover a range of activities to suit your interests. From leisurely walks through the vineyards to exhilarating bike rides, there is always something to keep you entertained. You can also take a dip in our sparkling pool or simply relax on the terrace and soak up the beauty of your surroundings.

At L’Avenir, we understand the importance of creating lasting memories. Whether you are visiting for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a corporate retreat, we are committed to ensuring your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. We invite you to join us at L’Avenir Country Lodge and Wine Estate and experience the true essence of South African hospitality.

When I visited L’Avenir Country Lodge in the spring, I couldn’t help but marvel at its unique blend of South African pride and French elegance. Nestled beneath the magnificent Simonsberg Mountains, this enchanting wine estate captures the essence of its picturesque surroundings.

The lodge itself is a cozy haven, boasting 11 rooms that offer a sense of intimacy and tranquility. As a working wine estate, L’Avenir provides an extraordinary opportunity to experience the art of winemaking firsthand. Even if you don’t stay the night, I highly recommend indulging in their wine tasting.

As we made our way to L’Avenir, my husband and I were captivated by the anticipation of what lay ahead. The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow on the beautiful vineyard, and we couldn’t wait to explore.

We were warmly greeted by Madelein Lambrecht, a fountain of knowledge about L’Avenir who has been a part of the team for 14 years. She took us on a brief tour of the grounds, showing us the highlights and sharing fascinating tidbits along the way.

After the tour, we made our way to the 4-star lodge, conveniently located just a stroll away from the tasting area. Checking in was a breeze, and we were immediately impressed by the spaciousness and charm of our room.

The room was inviting and spacious, with two sets of double doors adorned with floor-to-ceiling glass panels. One set of doors led out to a stoep, offering a peaceful view of the lawn and vineyards below. The other set opened up to a cozy courtyard, where our own private plunge pool awaited us. From there, we could admire the breathtaking vista of the vineyards and mountains beyond.

The room was thoughtfully equipped with everything we needed for a comfortable stay. A large-screen TV provided entertainment, while the tea and coffee amenities and minibar ensured we could indulge in refreshments at our leisure. I was particularly delighted to find a writing desk, which added a touch of elegance to the space. On a tray, the estate’s exquisite wines were beautifully displayed, enticing us to sample their flavors.

Come check out the beautiful courtyard with its very own private plunge pool. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. Image credit: Elise Kirsten

Not every room has a pool, but don’t worry! The lodge has a stunning rim-flow pool that overlooks the lakes. It’s a great place to unwind and soak in the views.

During your stay, you’ll also get a free wine tasting. We decided to try the Single Block tasting, which showcases the amazing L’Avenir wines. After getting settled in, we made our way to the Cellardoor tasting area at L’Avenir.

We found a spot outside overlooking the lawn, with its artwork of springbuck and roosters. It’s a nice touch that pays homage to the farm’s South African and French heritage (did you know the company that owns it is based in France?). Beyond the lawn, there are beautiful dams, adding to the picturesque setting. The temperature was just right in the late afternoon, creating a pleasant atmosphere.

When it comes to wine tasting, one of my favorite spots is Cellardoor at L’Avenir. The atmosphere is delightful, and they offer a great selection of food to pair with your wine.

First, the Rosé caught my attention. My husband also enjoyed it. Then, we moved on to the Chenin Blanc, which I personally preferred over the Rosé. I usually lean towards red wines, but little did I know that I was about to be blown away by the L’Avenir Pinotage.

The L’Avenir Pinotage is a special wine. It’s the pinnacle of modern, Stellenbosch Pinotage and is a tribute to the late Francois Naudé, a pioneer in Stellenbosch Pinotage and L’Avenir’s former winemaker. The current winemaker, Dirk Cootzee, has truly outdone himself with this one. It’s the best Pinotage I’ve ever tasted, and it honors Naudé’s legacy perfectly. My husband agrees wholeheartedly.

When you take a sip of this Pinotage, you’ll instantly notice the flavors of fresh cherries dancing on your tastebuds. There’s also a delightful hint of sweetness and spice that adds to the overall experience. It’s like a burst of deliciousness that leaves a lasting impression. I can’t help but feel drawn to this wine, and I’m sure you will too. It’s the kind of taste that makes you want to stock up on a few bottles for those special occasions, or even just a quiet night at home.

Breakfast at L’Avenir while admiring the Lodge’s pool was a delightful way to start our day. I couldn’t resist a game of boules at the nearby court after our leisurely afternoon. Of course, I graciously accepted defeat and we made our way back to our room to freshen up before dinner. For me, it was a delicious bobotie, while my husband enjoyed a classic steak and chips in the dining room at Country Lodge. (If you prefer staying in, L’Avenir Country Lodge offers the option to pre-order meals for dinner, instead of going out to a restaurant in Stellenbosch).

Discover the flavors of L’Avenir wines

When it comes to wine tasting at L’Avenir, you have three wonderful options to choose from:

Provenance Tasting: Select five wines from the exquisite Futre Eternal and Provenance collection. It’s only R60 per person!

Single Block Experience: Indulge in the exquisite flavors of the limited release Single Block range. For only R120 per person, it’s an experience not to be missed.

Let’s try something new: How about trying three different styles of Pinotage and see which one you like best? It will only cost you R100 per person.

When you visit the L’Avenir Country Lodge, you’ll be greeted with a picturesque view that will instantly captivate you. The lodge offers a range of activities that will make your stay unforgettable.

Experience the Best of L’Avenir Country Lodge

As you explore the lodge, you’ll have the chance to embark on a wine tasting journey like no other. Take a tour of the cellar and discover the secrets behind the fine wines produced here. If you enjoy outdoor activities, you can engage in a game of boules, indulge in some bird watching, or try your hand at fishing.

For those who love adventure, the vineyards offer mountain biking and trail running trails. Imagine the thrill of exploring the scenic surroundings as you conquer these paths. And when the winter chill sets in, you can cozy up by the fireplace with a glass of Pinotage, enjoying the warmth and ambiance.

When it’s time to relax and rejuvenate, head to the pool. With its stunning views of the dams and beautiful tree-lined lawns, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the tranquility.

No matter what activities you choose at the L’Avenir Country Lodge, you’re in for an experience that will leave a lasting impression. So pack your bags, and get ready to create memories that will stay with you forever.