SA HOTEL - CONSTANTIA VALLEY - CAPE TOWN

In the heart of Cape Town this little paradise offers exqusite restaurants, hotel accommodation and beautiful walks. Known as the "mink and manure" part of the peninsula. Constantia area is the most exclusive suburbs combining rural with idyllic and tranquill as you make your way through winelands, estates and beautiful country side. Home to famous wine routes, it boasts luxury accommodation nearby and for those with a love of culture the wine estates and hotels offer spectacular wines in wind - protected vineyards and a well signposted route. Constantia Valley offers world class amenities and hotel accommodation, including horse riding, bridal paths wine tasting, nature trails, and is within 20 mins of the CBD.

The first and most well known farm was formed in 1685, and given to the then governor Simon Van Der Stel as an experimental produce farm. Simon Van Der Stel concentrated on Viticulture resulting in the now world famous wines produced, and used the Manor House a his favourite accommodation. The valley took its name from the Groot Constantia Estate. Furnished with beautiful furniture and antiques, the manor house is a museum for visitors to admire. Five farms now form what used to be the original Farm - Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia, Buitenverwachten, Steenberg Vineyards and Constantia Uitsig. With a cool maritime climate, the wines are assured to be a good quality, including some of South Africa's finest Sauvignon Blanc Klein Constantia, famous for its white wines, was formed in 1716. on an avenue bordered by majestic oak trees, Buitenverwachten, the next wine estate houses one of the most exclusive restaurants in Cape Town. Constantia Uitsig with its restaurant and fabulous wines gives one a breathtaking view of the valley Steenberg, the last eatate on the route, hosts a golf course, hotel and restaurant.

Hotel Accommodation nearby is luxurious, well priced and also within easy distance to Cape Towns other attractions. Leisure Bay Luxury Suites : a view with 4 star luxury hotel suites with a view of Table Mountain and only sea facing suites. This accommodation is perfect for functions, the hotel's restaurant is sheltered and can take up to 35 indoor guests and 20 outdoor guests. Bantry Bay Luxury Suites - This hotel is in a central location within easy access to the city centre, V&A waterfront and to Hout Bay. In the heart of the Platinum Mile this hotel offers luxury hotel suites and semi suites, there is also a hotel boardroom available for up to 12 persons with internet and other facilities available.

The walk around Hely and Woodhead Dams takes about 3-4 hrs and is relatively easy, keeping you on gravel and road for most of the walk. The dams are over 100 years old with and interesting museum on the far side of the Woodmead Dam. After exiting the forest, the steepest part is the climb ahead as it wind its way up the mountain. For a refreshing rest there is a small stream of water under the bridge nearer the top, or the drinking fountain 15mins on. The steep walk will soon be forgotten on the flatter top and carrying on to the dams, this tranquil spot is ideal for a picnic to soak up the serenity.