This post was written by South African mom blogger Janine Avery, from 5 Star Stories.
About to add a fourth member to our family, we recently ventured out to the Paarl Winelands for a little escape before the baby arrived. Our venue of choice? Cape Country Route’s member, Val du Charron, which promises an enchanting blend of scenic beauty and family-friendly activities. Although the winter-weather raged a full-on assault on our weekend, we still had a great Winelands break, enjoying some super quality-time as a family of three.
Here are just some of the reasons why we would return again.
1. Family-friendly accommodations in Val du Charron
Val du Charron offers a range of accommodation options that cater to families of all sizes. The spacious family suites are perfect for those traveling with kids, featuring comfortable bunk-bed style kid’s nooks and plenty of space to relax. If you’re travelling as a couple with a baby or one small child, you might also choose to stay in the Coach House’s luxury suites which open up onto their own private patio with fireplace and private plunge pool.
For larger families or those looking for more privacy, the self-catering Manor House provides a home-away-from-home experience. This historic cottage features two en-suite bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living areas, and private outdoor spaces including a braai and pool where kids can play while parents unwind.
2. Plenty to do on site
Val du Charron offers an array of activities that will keep every member of the family entertained. While the adults can indulge in wine tastings while the estate’s knowledgeable staff share fascinating facts about the various vintages, children can enjoy the swimming pool, head to the swings and slides at the playground or even enjoy the splash-pad outside the Pizza Vista restaurant.
Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the hiking trails that meander through the vineyards and surrounding countryside. These trails offer breathtaking views and a chance to spot local wildlife or farm animals, such as the herd of friendly cows that make their home here.
3. Varied dining experiences
Dining at Val du Charron is a treat for the whole family. The estate features two excellent restaurants in The Grillroom and Pizza Vista. The Grillroom offers a menu filled with mouthwatering grill and steak options, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. There’s even the unique opportunity to experience grain vs grass fed cuts and decide for yourself which is the best of the best. While there’s no specific kid’s menu here, there is an extensive array of starter options where you’ll be sure to find something to tickle your kids taste buds. The staff and chef, who frequently make an appearance out of the kitchen, are also super friendly and accommodating of families.
On the other hand, Pizza Vista, as the name suggests, specializes in delicious wood-fired pizzas as well as healthy variety of pastas. The alfresco terrace is perfect for a relaxed family meal with stunning views of the vineyards and mountains while there is also a cosy indoor section for when it rains. Unlike the Grillroom, a kid’s menu is available with various pasta or pizza options available for budding foodies. The milkshakes are also exceptionally tasty. Once again, the staff make dining here a memorable experience, offering dough for the kids to roll at the table and make their very own pizza. An experience our little one thoroughly loved.
4. Easy to reach
Getting to Val du Charron is a breeze, making it an ideal destination for families. From Cape Town, you simply need to take the N1 highway towards Paarl and Wellington. The farm itself is located just outside the quaint historical town of Wellington before you would journey over the iconic Bainskloof Pass. It’s a journey that takes about an hour, the perfect time when travelling with kids, while offering stunning views of the mountains and vineyards along the way.
5. Exploring the winelands
Val du Charron is within easy reach of the many attractions of the Paarl Winelands. After recent heavy rains we enjoyed taking a day trip along the pass to see the many waterfalls along route, with plenty of places to stop and enjoy a picnic along the way. The historic town of Wellington with its teeny-tiny museum, stately church and family-friendly cafes is also worth a visit. For those who don’t mind venturing a little further away, Exotic Animal Park, Drakenstein Lion Park and Giraffe House are all a hit with children, offering a chance to see various wildlife up close. You can also pair a visit here with a stay at any number of the Cape Country Route’s other charming owner-run properties and enjoy an extended road-trip with the family exploring even more of the country.
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