Natte Valleij
Winery Description
Location and History
Natte Valleij is a historic farm on the lower slopes of the Simonsberg mountains. It is conveniently located within a short drive from Paarl, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Cape Town (approximately 35 minutes). The farm, surrounded by whitewashed walls, features a homestead, old wine cellars, retired brandy stills, and magnificent mature gardens filled with ancient trees, pergolas, and ponds.
The farm's origins date back to 1715 when it was granted to a former soldier, Jurgiaan Hanekom from Germany. In 1770, ownership passed to the De Villiers family, who constructed the main homestead in 1775. The house, originally designed in a classic "H" shape with a florid gable, was partially destroyed by fire in 1839. Adriaan Jacobus van der Bijl, who acquired the property that same year, restored the damaged woodwork and replaced the gable with a neo-classical design dated 1840, which remains intact today.
In 1969, the Milner family purchased Natte Valleij, transitioning the farm from vineyards to a thoroughbred stud, producing many classic winners over 27 years. Today, the farm has returned to its winemaking roots, offering a selection of classic wines and warm hospitality in self-catering accommodations and en-suite guest rooms. The farm also serves as a romantic country wedding venue, capturing the ambience of a bygone era.
Wine Tasting
Natte Valleij has revived its winemaking tradition since 2005, focusing on traditional methods reminiscent of the 1950s. Grapes are hand-picked, and every step of the winemaking process, from bottling to labeling, is done manually. Winemaker Alexander Milner is dedicated to crafting wines with minimal interference, allowing the unique qualities of the grapes to shine through. The Natte Valleij Cinsault Collective showcases the old dryland bush vine Cinsault, reflecting the dynamic nature of the Cape Winelands.
Restaurant
Accommodation
Guests can choose from several charming accommodations:
Vineyard Cottage: A spacious self-catering cottage that comfortably sleeps six, featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a sitting room with a fireplace, a dining room, and a kitchen. The patio overlooks the horse paddock and includes BBQ (braai) facilities.
The Henhouse: Situated in the courtyard between the homestead and old cellars, this cottage offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, a dining room, a kitchen, and a patio with BBQ facilities.
Cellar Cottage: A cosy one-bedroom self-catering cottage next to the old wine cellars, featuring a double bedroom, sitting room, bathroom, kitchen, and a stoep with BBQ facilities.
En-Suite Guestroom: A comfortable room with its own entrance, offering either two single beds or a king bed and an en-suite bathroom. Ideal for an overnight stay, this unit does not include kitchen or BBQ facilities.
Tours and Activities
Natte Valleij provides access to neighbouring nature reserves, where guests can enjoy walking or mountain biking amidst herds of Springbok, Wildebeest, Zebra, and occasionally Eland and Gemsbok. Birdwatching enthusiasts will delight in spotting over 180 species, including rarities like the Wood Owl and Amethyst Sunbird. Guests are also invited to explore the farm's wine offerings and arrange cellar tours, especially during the winemaking season (February to March).
Natte Valleij is an enchanting and rustic wedding venue set in the heart of the Winelands. Its historical buildings, ancient oak trees, and lush gardens provide a romantic wedding backdrop, accommodating up to 140 guests. The unique and picturesque setting ensures a memorable experience for all.
