Private Museums: Cultural Experiences in Cape Town

Cape Town has a rich and diverse history which means that there are many fine museums and art galleries to visit during a trip to the Mother City. The city’s history has included everything from rich maritime trade to slavery, colonialism, art and incredible medical advancements. Each group of South Africa’s cosmopolitan population and every aspect of this history are represented in some way throughout the city. Sometimes heading away from the more well-known and mainstream tourist attractions and towards these smaller commemorative establishments is an ideal way to get to know the real Cape Town, both past and present.

The Museums off the Beaten Track

Cape Town has many popular museums that vary from those that chronicle the history of imprisonment on Robben Island to the Iziko South African Museum that offers a fascinating insight into our world’s natural history. And while it is these that usually make it to the forefront of the guide books, there are many other fascinating museums in Cape Town that should not be missed.

Rhodes Cottage Museum is situated just outside Muizenberg and offers a stunning view of False Bay in its vast and sparkling entirety. Many years ago this quaint cottage was a refuge for the great Cecil John Rhodes and was the place of his eventual death. The garden is a unique blend of English country charm and traditional Cape Fynbos, and is lovingly tended to and retains its beauty and glory. Sit back and enjoy a cup of tea while the dedicated volunteer guides teach you about Rhodes’ fascinating life and the role he had to play in the establishment of Cape Town as the spectacular city that it is today.

The Bo Kaap Museum building itself is a rare example of early urban Cape Dutch architecture and was once home to many people of the Islamic faith following the abolition of slavery. A trip around this museum offers a unique insight into Muslim cultural heritage and is a fascinating introduction to this religion. This historical building pays special tribute to the Muslims of the Cape, highlighting their adaptation to living in a new land and the distinctive traditions that arose.

The Cape Medical Museum is a must for both history and medical buffs alike. This quaint museum takes visitors right back in time to the turn of the century where dentists’ offices didn’t have electric chairs or drills. Each exhibit reconstructs a historical medical procedure, vividly illustrating what it was like to go to the doctor 100 years ago. This museum has a strong emphasis on African medicine and is an enlightening introduction to sangomas, herbalists and traditional healers.

Slave Lodge is one of the oldest buildings in Cape Town and was built in 1679 as a home for the slaves of the Dutch East India Company. The museum now celebrates the family roots and ancestry of the people of South Africa and documents how the Cape played its part in the international slave trade. A darkened room transports visitors back to a time of oppression and slavery as sounds, images and animations create an eerie feeling of what it was like to live in Slave Lodge in the 17th century.

Paarl Museum offers an eclectic mix of the Cape’s and mankind’s history. Exhibits track the evolution of African man from the early homo erectus to the Khoisan to the colonialists and slaves. Fascinating archaeological finds from the area illustrate this evolution alongside Cape antiques, artefacts, documents and photographs that teach people about the rich history of Paarl. The many exhibitions change throughout the year, but all carry the same aim of promoting tolerance amongst today’s inhabitants of the area.

Specialist Art Galleries

The Michaelis Collection is housed in Cape Town’s former City Hall in the heart of the vibrant Green Market Square. As some of the first settlers to the Cape, Dutch influences abound in this city and the connection to this European country is still strong. A day spent amongst these great works offers insight into the roots and ancestry of many Capetonians. The Collection features Nederlandish art from the 17th century, which is credited to many great artists such as Jan Steen and Frans Hals.

The Marvol Museum is beautifully situated on the recently restored Hazendal Wine Estate in Stellenbosch. Owned by Russian businessman Dr Mark Voloshin, the Marvol Museum offers a unique experience of a blend of African and Russian cultures. The displays of priceless Faberge Eggs are unparalleled outside of Russia and the ancient works of art offer further insight into this incredible country. The museum also acts as a platform for young South African artists to display their works, offering guests a sneak peak at some of the country’s most exciting new talents. What really sets this museum apart from any other is how it can be used as a conference or wedding venue. Getting married under exquisite works of art or conducting business amongst priceless antiques makes for a truly unforgettable experience.

The William Fehr Collection is on display at Cape Town’s historic castle – the earliest building ever built in this once emerging city. The collection celebrates many different artefacts from the early colonial Cape and was collected throughout the life of avid art connoisseur William Fehr. The paintings, furniture and decorative arts of the collection are all relevant to the Cape and offer a unique celebration of her people, languages and landscapes.

Many More Options to Suit the Whole Family

Cape Town’s museums and galleries are as extensive as any other city in the world and there really is something on offer for the entire family. Muizenberg Toy Museum and Collector’s Shop will delight young and old with its toys that span the centuries and the South African Air Force Museum is a must for boys and their dads. While in Cape Town don’t be swayed by the big tourist attractions and museums, but rather head a little bit further afield to some of the smaller places – what you find out about people, Cape Town and yourself will make it well worth the trip.

About the Author

The Marvol Museum on Hazendal Wine Estate offers one of Cape Town’s most unique and intriguing days out. Committed to both the preservation of Russian culture and the upliftment of South African art, Dr Mark Voloshin’s love for both countries is highlighted in the tasteful exhibits. No where else are the countries of Russia and South Africa juxtaposed quite so beautifully.

Western Cape Wine Estate Weddings

South Africa’s Western Cape Province is arguably one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. And for anyone who has visited the area, it is really no surprise. From pristine beaches to rolling green wine farms and urban mountains, the scenery in this part of Africa is truly breathtaking. The people of the Western Cape are a huge part of what makes the area so pleasurable to visit and they are as welcoming and friendly as they are diverse.

With such a spectacular backdrop and accommodating people, it is easy to understand why so many people choose to have their special day in the Western Cape. A wedding is an experience that should be remembered forever and if it is held on a beach in on the Atlantic Seaboard or a wine farm in Stellenbosch, this is absolutely guaranteed.

Saying Your Vows on a Wine Estate

Nothing quite compares to saying your wedding vows in the vineyards of a Western Cape wine estate. This region is world renowned for its impeccable wines and many of the wine farms themselves have been operating for generations and are steeped in history. Most estates can accommodate both the ceremony and the reception and have charming rooms and suites for guests who stay over. Complete wedding packages are usually available from most estates and include everything from the food to the décor and make for an extremely cost-effective option. Each wine farm is unique in style and experience and offers a backdrop for a wedding that includes impeccable service and, of course, beautiful photographs!

When you choose to get married on a wine estate in the Western Cape, some issues are worth bearing in mind. International visitors to South Africa can be assured that a marital union forged in the country is valid throughout the world and there are no residency requirements that need to be filled before the ceremony can take place. Many foreign currencies are also fairly strong against the South African Rand, making a wedding in the country financially viable. The best time to visit the Western Cape is from November to February as the summer sunshine is almost a certainty. It is usefully to remember though that this is high season, and attractions will be busy and prices a little higher.

The Western Cape’s Top Three Wedding Wine Estate Venues

There are so many different wine estates and farms and the Western Cape that is hard to decide which one would offer you the ideal wedding venue. While each estate has its own incredible features, there are a few that while may not be as well known, offer a truly beautiful and unique experience.

Vrede en Lust Wine Estate

This Franschhoek wine estate is one of the Western Cape’s more popular offerings and having your wedding at Vrede en Lust allows you access to over 300 years of wine making experience and many extra services. The luscious gardens make the ideal location for photographs and professional babysitters are on hand to take care of the little ones. There are three venues to choose from, the Plaza, Winery Complex or Historic Cellar. The Plaza offers an eclectic mix old and new with majestic columns and wooden ceilings, while the Winery Complex has a private balcony overlooking the vineyards. The Historic Cellar is a 220 year old building rich in character and charm. The doors open out on to the gardens with breathtaking views of the mountains.

Hazendal Wine Estate

Hazendal Wine Estate offers perhaps the most unusual wedding wine estate venue in the Western Cape. This estate was recently taken over by renowned Russian businessman, Dr Mark Voloshin and has been revitalised thanks to his dedication. Dr Voloshin is of Russian birth and his expert taste has amalgamated the heritage of this country with South African culture, creating a truly unique venue. Wedding packages allow for both the ceremony and the reception to be held on the estate and in a choice of three unique venues. The ceremony can take place in the Marvol Museum, where your guests will surrounded by the best in Russian and South African art or in the lounge of the main Manor House in front of a roaring fire.

The lawn in the front of the Manor House is a truly exquisite place for a summer wedding. The national monument Cape Dutch house offers a stunning backdrop and the rolling green lawns are perfectly manicured. Receptions can be held in a marquee on this lawn or in the spacious Hermitage restaurant. The glass wall of the restaurant looks into the wine cellar for an extraordinary backdrop and the nearby lounge is a great place for guests to retire to after a sumptuous meal. The mix of traditional Russian and South African foods make for a wedding meal that you will never forget, complemented by five star service from staff who do not hesitate to go that extra mile.

Morgenhof Wine Estate

The Morgenhof Wine Estate lies just outside Stellenbosch and is within a convenient 25 minute drive of both Cape Town’s city centre and international airport. This wine farm has been in operation for over 300 years and produces some of the world’s finest wines. The octagonal underground cellar makes for an unusual and delightful venue for a wedding, which is perfect in the colder winter months. This cellar is a landmark in the Stellenbosch Winelands and has been meticulously kept. A summer wedding in the picturesque gardens is also an option and is made special by the excellent service offered by the estate’s friendly staff.

About the Author

Hazendal Wine Estate has been in operation since 1699 and is one of the Western Cape’s most beautiful wine estates. Nearly falling to ruin by the early 1990s, Dr Mark Voloshin restored this estate to its former glory, preserving a slice of South African history for future generations and finally enabling couples a truly breathtaking place to say their vows.

Unique South African Wine Estates

South Africa is known the world over as a premium producer of some of the finest quality wines ever tasted. Following a wine route through Stellenbosch or Robertson is an unforgettable way to spend a Sunday or even several days if you manage it. Tourists flock to South Africa to explore her wine estates and estates like Spier, Boschendal and Durbanville Hills are constantly overflowing with visitors from around the world.

While wine estates like these are undeniably beautiful and well worth seeing, there are many other wine estates within South Africa’s borders. Lesser-known estates like Hazendal and Alvi’s Drift to name only two, produce equally fine wines and each have incredibly unique features. Heading out to one of these estates takes you a little further off the beaten track, allowing you to discover the beauty of South Africa’s less-explored countryside. No crowds will greet you at one these estates, only a warm and welcoming wine farmer with a glass of their finest on hand.

The Lesser-Known Estates

Alvi’s Drift Private Cellar

Situated in the Breede River region of the Western Cape, Alvi’s Drift Private Cellar is a small and exclusive wine farm. First established in 1928 and named after a nearby bridge, this cellar simply exudes elegance and charm. The small adjoining game farm means that you might just see a wild animal stroll by why you sample a glass of chardonnay. The cellar also produces delectable cheeses to be sampled alongside the wine in a unique and quirky underground cellar. Sitting back with friends in the seclusion and quiet of Alvi’s Drift as the candlelight flickers off the wall is an experience that cannot be matched by the larger wine estates.

New Beginnings

New Beginnings wine farm is backed by a heart-warming tale that epitomises the new South Africa. After his wine farm, Nelson’s Creek, won the “Champion Wine Producer in Boland” award, owner Alan Nelson donated 11 hectares of land to his dedicated workers in thanks. Aptly name New Beginnings; this wine farm represents the first ever black owned wine estate in South Africa. The estate has come along in leaps and bounds since 1997 and now has three established wines, a Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and a tantalising Pinotage.

Nwanedi Estate

This relatively young estate was founded in Paarl only a decade ago as a retirement project for Gavin and Jean Stork. Many years ago this couple married in the tropical region of Vhavenda, in an area known as Nwanedi – where two rivers meet – and this happy memory was brought alive again by the naming of their estate. Nwanedi Estate’s most unique feature is that you can customise your own wine to your exact tastes. By purchasing a 225 litre barrel, the wine is matured to your exacting specifications and the then bottled to your taste. The exotic African hardwood box of its presentation makes for an ideal gift. Visiting this estate and its unique take on wine making is a real eye-opening experience to the process and is well worth investigating.

Kleine Draken

This 300 year old farm is nestled in south eastern slopes of the Paarl Mountains and has recently been restored to its former wine making glory. Kleine Draken is the only estate in South Africa that exclusively produces Kosher and Mevushal wines. Each wine is certified by the strict Cape Beth Din, ensuring that each one is suitable for Passover or any other occasion. While adhering to these strict regulations Kleine Draken still uses the latest in modern wine making technology. This combination of ancient religious wine making practices and ultra-modern technology is a sight to be seen along with a delightful glass of wine to complete the show.

Hazendal

Hazendal Wine Estate is credited as being the first ever wine farm in South Africa to be owned by a Russian national. Purchased on the same day as South Africa’s first ever democratic elections, its proud owner, Dr Mark Voloshin, became the first foreign investor in the new South Africa and has never looked back since. This run-down farm now emanates its former radiance and a piece of Western Cape history has been restored. What makes Hazendal so special is the eclectic mix of Russian and South African culture that radiates throughout the estate. The Marvol Museum in located in an old wine cellar and showcases some of the best in both Russian and South African art. The restaurant has a glass wall looking out into the working wine cellar and serves a delightful mix of each country’s best culinary delights. This fusion of cultures also extends to the wine itself, creating a distinct taste that should be tried by any wine enthusiast.

Viljoensdrift

This fifth generation farm is still owned by the Viljoen family and used to be a premium grape supplier to its neighbouring co-operatives. In 1998, brothers Fred and Manie decided to make use of their own grapes and began pressing their own wine. In the past decade, Viljoensdrift wines have rapidly gained credibility overseas and are now a favourite amongst wine connoisseurs. Visiting Viljoensdrift is a unique experience as the leisurely Breede River flows through the wine farm. Guests can sit back on a flat-bottomed motorised raft and enjoy a cruise down the river while sampling some delightful wines.

About the Author

Hazendal Wine Estate is nestled between Stellenbosch and Kuils River and is over 300 years old. Dr Mark Voloshin and his family now call this estate home and are dedicated to both wine and the expression of both South African and Russian culture. The beautifully restored Cape Dutch Manor House and the Bottelary Hills make an ideal backdrop for an afternoon of good food and excellent wines.