Waiting for the ultimate winter break? It’s here! Hemel-en-Aarde winery Bouchard Finlayson teamed up with sister property Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat to present a gourmet food and wine weekend of note. Be ready for a big winter treat in the tranquil Cederberg from 26 to 28 July 2019. The package is total luxury. A weekend of sensory overload while recharging simultaneously.

A year ago I had the privilege of driving to the Cederberg Mountains and exploring the landscape beyond Clainwilliam. As then, guests will again be taken on a connoisseur’s journey hosted by winemaker Chris Albrecht and Executive Chef Charles Hayward. Highlights of the weekend’s activities comprise of a bespoke wine tasting and an tutored food and wine pairing dinner on the Saturday.  Be prepared to make friends with fellow guests and to cosy up at the fireplaces that warm the beautiful homestead and chalets. Time goes fast with the variety of lodge activities that are included. Go on a nature drive, join your guide for a rock art excursion, take a botanical meander, canoe, practice archery, fly fish or pick a trail and hike.  There is more than enough to do for those manage to leave the comfort of their plush lodge.

During my stay fellow guests wisely chose to stay an extra day and I felt a jealous pang when we drove off on the Sunday. The 2-night event costs from R3795 per person sharing per night and includes all meals, selected wines and lodge activities. Know that you can stay longer! It’s worth it.

This outstanding gourmet experience matches fine cuisine and superb wines during an extravagant five-course food and wine pairing dinner on the Saturday night. As I dream of the mouthwatering dishes paired with Bouchard Finlayson vintages I treasure the memories of complete indulgence.

If this deal does not tick enough boxes then the responsible tourism destination will further wow guests with their efforts to empower staff. On site educational facilities and a sports field are part of a sustainable and mutually beneficial employment offering. It is also thanks to Bushmans Kloof and then Executive Chef Floris Smit that the ritual Riel dance experienced a renaissance. Floris, an ex-professional dancer, saw a group of youngsters dancing the Riel in Wupperthal and felt inspired to offer his services to choreographed and train the group. In 2015 the group represented South Africa in Los Angeles and came home with gold. They won the Ethnic Folk Dance category and made sure the world took note of South Africa’s folk dancing skills. And, then I can tell you about the rock art on the property… But best you make the trip and experience this amazing Bouchard Finlayson Bushmans Kloof partnership personally.

Bookings: Telephone: +27 (0)21 437 9278; Email: info@bushmanskloof.co.za