What does spring have in store for you? In the latest issue of Stellenbosch Visio, we bring you the freshest news and reviews as the season of renewal unfolds.
LE GRAND JARDIN VILLA ART AND WINE EXPERIENCES
Le Grand Jardin Villa has launched extraordinary fine art and wine experiences in partnership with Cape-based ARTROUTE. Set in its magical Alice in Wonderland-inspired garden, the villa offers curated tours through local galleries, private collections and unrivalled art destinations, led by expert guides with exclusive access to artists. Guests can enjoy immersive activities like ‘The Art of the Postcard’, a creative family-friendly tour, and a ‘Paint (and Sip)’ workshop using wine as a painting medium.
The villa also offers the ‘Drops of God’ wine-tasting experience in its candle-
lit cellar, led by winemaker Debbie Thompson, during which guests explore
54 scent vials alongside a tasting of Le Grand Domaine wines. These art and wine experiences provide a playful yet enriching way to connect with Stellenbosch’s vibrant cultural scene, making Le Grand Jardin a one-of-a-kind retreat.
Beyond its curated art encounters, the villa itself is a living gallery. With interiors styled to highlight both heritage and whimsicality, guests are surrounded by early 20th-century South African works, contemporary pieces and custom wallpaper.
It’s a space where art, architecture and playful storytelling come together, inviting guests to slow down, enjoy and be inspired.
For exclusive stays and bookings, email villahost@wonderlandescapes.com. Instagram @legrandjardinvilla
CAPE GRACE WELCOMES EXECUTIVE CHEF WESLI JACOBS
Cape Town’s award-winning luxury hotel Cape Grace has proudly announced the appointment of Wesli Jacobs as its new executive chef. With 15 years of experience in South Africa’s culinary scene, including his recent role at The Four Seasons Westcliff Hotel where he led Flames to win Best Restaurant in Johannesburg, Wesli brings a blend of innovation and tradition to the kitchen.
Passionate about creating exceptional dining experiences, he draws inspiration from his great-grandmother’s cooking and aims to excite guests at Heirloom Restaurant with bold, locally rooted flavours. Beyond Heirloom, he will also oversee the Library Lounge, Bascule Bar, Pool Bar and Afternoon Tea offerings. Wesli’s new menu launched in July, marking an exciting new chapter in Cape Grace’s culinary offerings.
“The Cape Grace is the epitome of luxury in South Africa’s hospitality industry and for it – and me – to be located in the beautiful Mother City, itself a foodie destination, is a bonus,” he says.
Instagram @capegracehotel
BURGUNDY COLLECTIVE OPENS FLAGSHIP STORE IN STELLENBOSCH
After 13 years of building the brand from the ground up, Burgundy Collective has opened its flagship store at 35 Plein Street in Stellenbosch, the very town where it all began. Founder Willem Boshoff has described the milestone as a full-circle moment, honouring the journey from handcrafting leather goods in a small workshop to launching a store that brings the brand’s values and aesthetic to life.
Known for its timeless, handmade leather bags and accessories, all crafted in Stellenbosch, Burgundy Collective has built a loyal following through its dedication to quality, design and local craftsmanship.
“Opening this store felt like planting a flag,” says Willem. “It’s our way of saying we’re here, we’re proud of what we’ve built and we’re just getting started.”
Instagram @burgundycollective
FRANSCHHOEK: AFRICA’S FIRST MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL HOST
Franschhoek is set to make history as the first African host of the legendary Montreux Jazz Festival. Since its start in 1967, the festival has been a major cultural event in Montreux, Switzerland, and is known for a diverse music line-up that includes jazz, blues, pop and rock. Now it will bring its world-class expertise and top international artists to the heart of the Cape Winelands, with its debut scheduled for March 2026. The festival promises to bridge cultural divides by connecting emerging South African talent with global music icons and industry leaders. Franschhoek’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage provide the perfect backdrop for this landmark event, which will boost local tourism, create jobs and celebrate the arts. Partnerships with
local institutions like the Uncorked Music Academy reflect a strong commitment
to nurturing young talent and fostering musical exchange. This milestone cements Franschhoek’s place on the global cultural map and opens doors for future collaborations that celebrate African arts.
Instagram @franschhoeksa @montreuxjazzfestival
CAPE UMBRELLAS: OUTDOOR ART THAT MAKES A STATEMENT
Stellenbosch-based multimedia artist Julie de Pão has collaborated with luxury umbrella manufacturer Cape Umbrellas to bring her dream-like illustrations to life in a brand-new way. Her artworks, printed on the inner canvas of the umbrellas, are only revealed when you step underneath them. The result? High-quality outdoor umbrellas that double as art installations.
Two standout pieces are Fynbos Fantasy, inspired by the Western Cape’s wild botanical beauty, and Daydreaming, a whimsical ode to cloud gazing and imagination. Both umbrellas are bold, joyful and layered with detail, designed to uplift and enhance any outdoor living space. Cape Umbrellas handles all queries and offers a wide range of customisation options, including colours, trims and finishes. Sample umbrellas are available to view.
Instagram @capeumbrellas
GROUNDED PRACTICE AT SPIER
Spier’s historic Old Wine Cellar is now home to Grounded Practice, a powerful new ceramic exhibition assembled by Tamlin Blake, the chief curator of Spier Arts Trust. Featuring 63 works by 42 South African artists, the show explores themes of stability, sustainability and the emotional grounding that creative practice can offer in uncertain times.
At the heart of the exhibition is clay itself, symbolic of both fragility and resilience. Many of the works are rooted in personal or environmental reflection, echoing Spier’s own regenerative ethos. Highlights include meditative sculptures by Sinethemba Xola, mythology-inspired forms by Anita Sikutshwa and sand-cast imprints by Sylvester Zanoxolo Mqeku.
“Before [clay] becomes a ceramic object, it is soft, malleable and therapeutic. Once fired, it transforms into something resilient and enduring – just like the human spirit,” says Tamlin.
Until 14 September 2025 | Instagram @spierwinefarm | @spierartstrust
ACCOLADES FOR SU RESEARCHERS
Nine finalists from Stellenbosch University (SU), along with three affiliated researchers, have been nominated for the prestigious 2025 NSTF/South32 Awards. Regarded as South Africa’s ‘Science Oscars’, the awards honour outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology and innovation. Among the SU finalists are leading figures in invasion biology, quantum science, psychiatry, molecular genetics and science communication, as well as teams from Innovus, LaunchLab and SU Enterprises.
The nominees include: Prof. Dave Richardson and Prof. Mark Tomlinson for the Lifetime Award; Dr Yaseera Ismail and Prof. Yin-Zhe Ma for the TW Kambule-NSTF Award for Researcher; Prof. Shahida Moosa for the Emerging Researcher and Clinician- Scientist categories; Prof. Leighvan den Heuvel for the Clinician- Scientist Award; Wiida Fourie-Basson for the Communication Award; Prof. Francesco Petruccione for the Quantum Science and Technology Award; and Innovus, LaunchLab and SU Enterprises for the Corporate Innovation Award. The affiliated finalists are Prof. Olaniyi Amos Fuwole (Department of Food Science), Prof. Stephanie Midgley (Department of Horticulture) and Marion Delport (Agricultural Economics).
Instagram @stellenboschuni | @nstf_sa
HISTORIC WINES OF THE CAPE WELCOMES NEW CEO
Historic Wines of the Cape, the company behind renowned brands La Motte Wine Estate and Leopard’s Leap Wines, has appointed Kobie Lochner as its new chief executive officer.
Previously the senior growth and development manager at Heineken Beverages International, Kobie brings extensive experience in leadership, strategic management and organisational development.
He succeeds Hein Koegelenberg, who is retiring at the end of 2025 after 26 years of visionary leadership that helped to establish South African wine in the Far East and boosted the Cape Winelands as a top wine tourism destination.
Hein praised Kobie as the ideal leader to guide the brands through a challenging global market, and Kobie will work closely with him to ensure a smooth transition.
LIZ MCGRATH COLLECTION UNVEILS REFRESHED LUXURY VILLAS
The Liz McGrath Collection has completed a stylish refurbishment of its four private villas, offering guests an elevated level of luxury and privacy. Located at The Cellars- Hohenort in Cape Town and The Plettenberg on the Garden Route, these villas combine elegant interiors with world-class amenities.
Each villa features personalised services, including bespoke concierge assistance, private dining options and the signature Villa Breakfast Experience enjoyed in the comfort of guests’ own space.
From the tranquil gardens of Constantia to the stunning coastline of Plettenberg Bay, the revamped villas provide spacious, exclusive retreats for discerning travellers.
Whether it’s the heritage-inspired Madiba Villa with its heated pool or the ocean-facing Beach House and Lookout Villa, guests can expect refined comfort paired with impeccable hospitality.
The Liz McGrath Collection’s family- owned hotels continue to deliver warm South African charm while meeting the highest standards of luxury recognised by Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
Instagram @mcgrathhotels
STELLENBOSCH WINERIES’ TREE-PLANTING RECORD
In a remarkable show of environmental commitment, Stellenbosch Wine Routes’ members have planted more than 6 300 new trees – more than 20 times the number uprooted by a devastating storm in 2024.
What began as a goal to replace 1 000 lost trees quickly grew into a major reforestation effort across the region, with major contributions from estates like Villiera (2 000 saplings) and De Zalze Golf Estate (3258). Indigenous trees were prioritised, although iconic oaks are also being replaced by Turkish, pin and water oak varieties.
Beyond regreening the landscape, the initiative is honouring local legends. In collaboration with the Stellenbosch Trail Fund, commemorative trees are being planted along the Eerste River for notable figures, including former Visit Stellenbosch CEO Jeanneret Momberg and the late Danie Steytler Sr. of Kaapzicht. “The success of this initiative has been extraordinary,” says Elmarie Rabe, general manager of Stellenbosch Wine Routes. “It’s a lasting tribute to our community’s love for nature and for Stellenbosch.”
Instagram @stellwineroute | @stellenboschtrailfund
MARKET IN THE GARDEN
Since its debut in November 2024, Market in the Garden has quietly blossomed into a beloved Saturday ritual for locals and visitors alike. From 9am to 3pm, the Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden comes alive with stalls offering seasonal produce, vintage finds, handmade crafts, accessories and a curated mix of artisanal goods.
More than a market, it’s a celebration of community, creativity and slow living. Visitors can relax in shaded garden seating, enjoy live acoustic music, browse nature-inspired gifts at the Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden’s shop and indulge in treats from the Botanical Café. This spring brings fresh additions, like an organic section, botanical workshops and the introduction of Friday Night Markets, all rooted in a shared love for nature and local flair.
Entrance fees contribute directly to the upkeep of the garden, preserving this peaceful oasis in the heart of town.
Instagram @marketinthegardenstellenbosch
KAMERS/MAKERS COMES TO ALLÉE BLEUE
This summer, Kamers/Makers brings its signature celebration of South African creativity to a new destination: the beautiful Allée Bleue Wine Estate on Simondium Road.
Allée Bleue offers the perfect canvas for a relaxed and inspiring shopping experience. What sets Kamers/Makers apart is the chance to meet the Makers in person and discover the passion that fuels every product, from fashion and homeware to kids’ items, jewellery, gifts and gourmet treats.
This season, more than 50 new Makers join the curated line-up, alongside the expanding Kamers/Makers ART pop-up gallery, collectives like The Voice and Art Point, and a showcase by Stellenbosch Academy final-year students, supported by FNB.
Kamers/Makers at Allée Bleue (28 October to 2 November) promises a joyful day out, with real connection, local creativity and a setting that showcases the very best of what South Africa’s design economy has to offer.
Instagram @kamersmakers & @alleebleue | Tickets at quicket.co.za
BUILDING A DIGITAL MOVEMENT FOR GOOD
At just 21, Stellenbosch University student Abigail Larsen is using technology to drive social change. Abigail is the co-creator of Thallo, a digital platform that connects volunteers with NGOs, combining the functionality of LinkedIn and Instagram to make it easier for young people to find causes they care about. The app also gamifies volunteering, allowing users to earn badges, build a social impact CV and contribute to real-world change.
Inspired by her faith and her own volunteering journey across South Africa, India and Rwanda, Abigail believes that helping others can also improve mental health. Thallo, set to launch at the end of 2025, hopes to bridge the gap between socially aware young people and organisations in need of support. “People want to be part of something bigger than themselves,” she says. “They want to know their life is influencing someone else’s.”
Instagram @sulaunchlab | @stellenboschuni
SIPPING & STORYTELLING AT LANZERAC’S NEW TASTING EXPERIENCE
Lanzerac invites guests to step into The Library, a sophisticated new sensory tasting room where wine, water and storytelling meet. Partnering with The Fine Water Company, The Library is South Africa’s first dedicated fine water tasting room.
Curated and hosted by Nico Pieterse, one of only two certified water sommeliers in South Africa, the experience introduces guests to the nuanced world of fine waters – their origins, mineral composition and distinctive taste profiles.
“The tasting experience is about shifting perceptions,” says Pieterse. “Water is complex, expressive and luxurious. It deserves its own spotlight, and that’s what we’re offering at The Library – an experience that is both educational and indulgent.”
Guests can expect an elegant pairing journey, where Lanzerac’s finest vintages are thoughtfully matched with still and sparkling waters and delicate palate cleansers, all within a beautiful setting.
Bookings for tastings at The Library can be made via The Fine Water Company’s Dineplan page or by emailing restaurants@lanzerac.co.za.
HENTIE VAN DER MERWE’S AFTER DE JONGH AT GUS
Forming part of the Woordfees visual arts programme, Hentie van der Merwe’s solo exhibition After de Jongh will run from 1 September to 18 October 2025 at Gallery University of Stellenbosch (GUS). In this striking new body of work, Hentie responds to the nostalgic, pastoral landscapes of Tinus de Jongh, reworking their idyllic scenes to reflect a more complex, personal and political reckoning with Afrikaner identity, memory and land.
Rendered in expressive, abstract gestures, his paintings use oil paint as both material and metaphor. He describes the canvas as an emotional arena, a space to explore themes of patrimony, nationalism and childhood memories shaped by the visual language of the South African farm landscape.
After de Jongh, presented by Art Source South Africa, marks a significant return to Stellenbosch and is an unmissable moment on the local cultural calendar.
WOORDFEES 2025
One of South Africa’s most beloved arts festivals, the Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees, marks its 25th anniversary this year – a quarter-century of bringing theatre, music, literature, film and visual arts to the heart of the Cape Winelands. Rooted in storytelling and community, the 2025 festival takes place from 11 to 19 October 2025 and promises a dynamic and diverse cultural offering.
This year’s theme, ‘share’, invites audiences to reconnect, reflect, and revel in a rich celebration of all things art. Director Saartjie Botha calls it “possibly the best programme yet”, with a renewed focus on literature, the festival’s original heartbeat.
Programme highlights include the return of Boklied by Breyten Breytenbach, Die ander dogter with Sandra Prinsloo, and Liefde, Lafras starring Antoinette Kellermann. The EasyEquities Writers’ Festival brings a bold literary line-up curated by Bibi Slippers, with Antjie Krog and Siphokazi Jonas as festival poets.
Printed guides and tickets are available at Erfurthuis, 37 Ryneveld Street. Early access is available for Woordfees loyalty members. Visit woordfees.co.za for more information.