• 13 Mar 2024

Taking your furry friend along on a wine tasting adventure? It’s not as easy as it sounds. Despite South Africa boasting over 500 wineries, only a tiny fraction officially welcome dogs. In fact, just 11 wineries (that’s less than 3%) are listed as dog-friendly on Wineries.co.za. That’s a surprisingly low number for a country that loves both wine and dogs.

But don’t pack away the leash just yet — because the few that do welcome dogs are worth visiting. From the Cape Winelands to the Boland and Overberg regions, these vineyards offer beautiful scenery, great wine, and a warm welcome for your four-legged companions.

🐾 Why Dog-Friendly Matters

For many South Africans, dogs are family. And with pet-friendly travel and lifestyle options on the rise, more people are looking for places where their dogs are not just tolerated — but truly welcomed. Whether it’s for a weekend getaway, a casual tasting, or an outdoor lunch, these wineries ensure you don’t have to leave your best friend behind.

🍷 11 Dog-Friendly Wineries in South Africa

Here’s the definitive list of wineries that officially allow dogs, according to Wineries.co.za. Click on each name to learn more about what they offer:

1. Gabriëlskloof – Botrivier: A scenic estate with rolling hills, great wines, and a relaxed outdoor setup where dogs are welcome.
2. Spice Route – Paarl: A vibrant destination offering artisanal food, craft beer, and wine — with plenty of outdoor space for pups.
3. Kloofzicht Estate – Tulbagh: Quaint and peaceful, this estate allows dogs to explore its beautiful gardens while you sip and unwind.
4. Saronsberg Wine Estate – Tulbagh: Known for its art gallery and wine, Saronsberg’s expansive lawn is perfect for lounging with your dog.
5. Dunstone – Wellington: A boutique wine farm with a dog-loving culture. There's even a dog on the label!
6. Stellenrust – Stellenbosch: Enjoy tastings on the stoep with your dog by your side — surrounded by mountain views and vineyards.
7. Eagle's Nest – Constantia: Nestled in a lush forested area, this tranquil winery is ideal for dog lovers who enjoy quiet charm.
8. Warwick Wine Estate – Stellenbosch: Known for its picnic experiences and lush lawns, Warwick is one of the most pet-friendly spots in the Cape.
9. Van Loveren Winery – Robertson: A family-friendly estate with garden walks, picnic areas, and a relaxed vibe for you and your pup.
10. Nitida – Durbanville: Great food, great wine, and a pet-welcoming atmosphere in a beautiful corner of the Durbanville Wine Valley.
11. Altydgedacht – Durbanville: Rustic charm and welcoming staff make this one a firm favourite with dog owners.

🔍 Looking for More than Dog-Friendly?

If you’re searching for wineries with biking trails, wedding venues, horse riding, or other specific amenities, check out the full browse tool on Wineries.co.za to filter by features that suit your ideal day out.

Final Thoughts

While the list may be short, these 11 dog-friendly wineries prove that quality outweighs quantity. So next time you plan a wine route adventure, don’t leave your dog at home — head to one of these tail-wagging approved destinations instead.