Vrede En Lust Wine Estate offers a unique opportunity to explore their picturesque Franschhoek wine valley. Guests can embark on a 2-hour Champagne carriage trail, where they’ll be whisked away on a scenic journey through the vineyards and alongside the tranquil Dwars River. This unforgettable experience allows visitors to take in the breathtaking views of the Simonsberg mountains while sipping on a complimentary bottle of Methode Cap Classique. Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic adventure or a small group looking to create lasting memories, this carriage trail promises an enchanting escape into the heart of the winelands.
This experience made our list of the 6 Best 2 Hour Tours and Experiences in Franschhoek.
Good To Know
- Vrede En Lust Wine Estate offers a 2-hour horse-drawn carriage ride through scenic vineyards and along the Franschhoek River, with a complimentary bottle of Methode Cap Classique.
- The carriage experience provides panoramic views of the picturesque Simonsberg mountain range and the estate’s lush vineyards, creating an unforgettable experience.
- The carriage ride has a maximum group size of 30 and requires a minimum of 2 riders, making it ideal for couples and small groups.
- Participants must attend a mandatory 30-minute safety briefing prior to the ride and have a maximum weight limit of 100kg per carriage.
- Booking for the carriage ride is available online with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and valid ID is required for all participants.
Exploring Vrede En Lust Wine Estate
Vrede en Lust Wine Estate offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Franschhoek wine valley in style.
Guests can embark on a 2-hour horse-drawn carriage ride through the estate’s picturesque vineyards and along the river. The scenic route provides stunning views of the Simonsberg mountain range.
During the ride, riders can sip the estate’s Methode Cap Classique, South Africa’s signature champagne-style wine. The experience includes a qualified guide and a bottle of the bubbly.
With a minimum of 2 riders and a maximum group size of 30, this is an ideal activity for couples and small groups seeking a leisurely and unforgettable way to discover the beauty of the Franschhoek region.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Franschhoek.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride Experience
Guests can embark on a delightful 2-hour horse-drawn carriage ride through the picturesque vineyards and along the serene river of the Vrede en Lust Wine Estate.
The ride offers stunning views of the Simonsberg mountain range and the opportunity to sip the estate’s Methode Cap Classique, South Africa’s own version of champagne.
Led by a qualified guide, the experience costs from $141.50 per person and requires a minimum of 2 riders.
Guests should arrive 30 minutes early for a safety briefing, bring comfortable clothing, and note that the carriage has a weight limit of 100kg.
Alcohol, drugs, and bad behavior are prohibited.
Stunning Simonsberg Mountain Views
The Simonsberg mountain range, whose iconic peaks rise dramatically in the distance, serves as a breathtaking backdrop to the Vrede en Lust Wine Estate‘s picturesque vineyards.
As the horse-drawn carriage gently navigates the estate’s grounds, guests are treated to sweeping panoramic views of the majestic mountains.
The rich, earthy hues of the Simonsberg provide a stunning contrast to the lush green vines and the sparkling waters of the Dwars River, creating a serene and picturesque landscape.
Whether catching glimpses of the mountains through the trees or taking in the full vista, visitors are sure to be captivated by the natural beauty surrounding them.
Savoring Methode Cap Classique
Enhancing the horse-drawn carriage experience, guests savor the crisp, effervescent notes of Methode Cap Classique – South Africa’s answer to champagne.
This bubbly treat is included in the tour, allowing riders to sip and savor as they take in the stunning vistas of the Simonsberg mountains.
The winemakers’ careful craftsmanship results in a refined, complex sparkling wine that perfectly complements the leisurely carriage ride through the picturesque vineyards.
Whether enjoyed among friends or as a romantic interlude, the Methode Cap Classique elevates the overall experience, creating lasting memories of Vrede en Lust’s tranquil beauty.
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Vineyard and River Trail
As the horse-drawn carriage gently meanders through the estate, riders can’t help but be captivated by the stunning vistas that unfold before them.
The scenic trail weaves through:
- Lush vineyards bursting with rows of grapevines
- The tranquil Franschhoek River, its banks lined with towering trees
- Breathtaking views of the Simonsberg mountain range
- Quaint farmhouses and historic buildings
- Verdant pastures where horses and other livestock graze peacefully
The leisurely pace of the carriage allows guests to fully enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Vrede en Lust Wine Estate, creating unforgettable memories of their time in the Franschhoek wine valley.
Booking and Reservation Details
Simplicity defines the booking process for the horse-drawn carriage experience at Vrede en Lust Wine Estate. Guests can reserve their spot online without any upfront payment – simply pay later.
Should plans change, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. The minimum group size is 2 riders, with a maximum of 30. Participants must arrive 30 minutes early for a safety briefing and provide a valid ID.
Those over 100kg should inform the operator in advance. While alcohol and drugs are prohibited, the tour includes a complimentary bottle of South Africa’s champagne-style Methode Cap Classique wine to enjoy during the scenic 2-hour ride.
Important Participant Considerations
The experience at Vrede en Lust Wine Estate may not suit infants under 1 year old.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, participants should be aware of the following:
- Arrive 30 minutes early for a mandatory safety briefing.
- Bring a valid ID, passport, or driver’s license.
- Notify the organizers in advance if participants weigh over 100kg.
- No alcohol or drugs are allowed; bad behavior or foul language won’t be tolerated.
- Indemnity forms must match the ID details of all participants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Under 1 Year Participate in the Activity?
Babies under 1 year old are not suitable for this activity. The guidelines clearly state that the experience is not suitable for infants under 1 year old. Therefore, children under 1 cannot participate in the 2-hour horse-drawn carriage ride.
Is There a Weight Limit for Participants?
There is a weight limit of 100kg for participants. Riders over 100kg must notify the provider in advance. However, the activity is not suitable for babies under 1 year old.
Can We Bring Our Own Alcoholic Beverages?
No, you can’t bring your own alcoholic beverages. The guidelines state that alcohol and drugs are prohibited, and no bad behavior or foul language is tolerated during the carriage ride experience.
What Forms of ID Are Accepted for the Activity?
According to the guidelines, valid ID, passport, or driver’s license are required for the activity. Participants must provide ID details that match the indemnity forms.
Can We Take Photos and Videos During the Carriage Ride?
Participants can take photos and videos during the carriage ride. The guidelines state that a camera is recommended as one of the items to bring for the activity.
The Sum Up
Vrede En Lust’s Champagne carriage trail offers an unforgettable journey through Franschhoek’s picturesque wine valley. Guests can savor Methode Cap Classique while admiring the stunning Simonsberg mountains and tranquil Dwars River from a horse-drawn carriage. This unique experience is perfect for couples and small groups seeking to create lasting memories amidst the estate’s lush vineyards and charming farmhouses.
You can check availability for your dates here:More 2-Hour Experiences in Franschhoek
- Franschhoek: 2h Private Engagement/Anniversary Carriage Ride
- Franschhoek: 2h Premium Wine Tasting & Carriage Trail
- Vrede En Lust Wine Estate: 2H Horse Trail
- Franschhoek: 2h Horseback Riding at Sunset With Sundowners
- Vrede En Lust Wine Estate: 2-Hour Champagne Carriage Trail
- Vrede En Lust Wine Estate: 2h Quad Bike Trail
More Wine Tours in Franschhoek
More Tour Reviews in Franschhoek
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Franschhoek we have reviewed
- Vrede en Lust Wine Estate: 1h30m Quad Bike Trail
- Vrede en Lust Wine Estate: 30m Quad Bike Trail
- Full-Day Franschhoek Wine Tour From Cape Town
- 25 Best Tours In Franschhoek
- 4 Best Guided Tours In Franschhoek
- Franschhoek Half Day Winelands Cycle Tour
- Gravity Scooter and Wine Farm Safari in Franschhoek
- Franschhoek Sip & Cycle Experience Full Day – Private Tour
- 1h – Carriage Trail
- Franschhoek E-Bike Wine Tour (Half Day)
- Full-Day Wine Tour From Franschhoek
- Franschhoek Winelands Luxury EBike Tour