Day 4: Business, Bottles & Breathtaking Views – Exploring South African Hospitality and Wine
Our fourth day in Cape Town blended the boardroom with the vineyard, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at two of South Africa’s biggest industries: hospitality and winemaking. It was a full day of learning, tasting, and soaking in the stunning beauty of the Cape.
Breakfast & Business at the Portswood
After another refreshing breakfast at the Portswood Hotel (I’m still thinking about that passionfruit), we gathered for a private talk with the District Manager of Legacy Hotels. She gave us a deep dive into South Africa’s tourism sector—one of the fastest-growing and most impactful contributors to the country’s economy.
South Africa welcomed millions of international travelers last year, and Cape Town continues to be a top destination, thanks to its dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse experiences. The hospitality industry here is competitive and creative, blending luxury and authenticity to create lasting memories for guests. Cape Town’s hotels range from historic boutique properties to modern luxury resorts, each focused on top-tier service, sustainability, and storytelling.
Legacy Hotels: A Homegrown African Brand
The Legacy Hotels & Resorts Group is one of Africa’s premier hospitality brands. With properties across Southern and West Africa, Legacy is known for providing luxury accommodation that reflects the culture and character of each destination. Their Cape Town property—the Portswood Hotel—is a prime example. It’s ideally located at the entrance to the V&A Waterfront and built around a historic site that once held prisoners en route to Robben Island.
Our guest speaker shared insights on:
International marketing strategies used to attract travelers from key global markets
Expansion goals across the African continent
Workforce training and retention, especially post-pandemic
Navigating challenges like load-shedding, water scarcity, and rising guest expectations
My students asked thoughtful questions about brand positioning, crisis management, and the future of hospitality. It was energizing to see them engage with the material and connect classroom learning to real-world operations.
Into the Winelands: Delaire Graff Estate
After our morning of learning, it was time to taste another side of the South African economy—wine. Terrance and Andre picked us up and we made our way into the Stellenbosch Winelands, one of the oldest and most prestigious wine regions in the Southern Hemisphere.
Our first stop was the stunning Delaire Graff Estate. Nestled on the slopes of the Helshoogte Pass, this estate is more than just a winery—it's an experience. Founded by diamond magnate Laurence Graff, the property blends art, luxury, and hospitality in spectacular fashion.
Delaire Graff produces a range of elegant wines, particularly known for their Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Bordeaux-style blends. But what truly sets them apart is how they integrate wine, tourism, fine dining, accommodation, and events. With a luxury lodge, two world-class restaurants, a spa, high-end boutiques, and a contemporary art gallery, Delaire Graff is a masterclass in vertical integration and hospitality synergy.
By offering curated guest experiences that go far beyond wine, they tap into multiple revenue streams—from weddings and wellness retreats to global wine exports—making them a standout player in the region.
Rickety Bridge Winery: Heritage Meets Innovation
Next, we headed to the charming Rickety Bridge Winery in Franschhoek, a short but scenic drive away. Set against the majestic Wemmershoek Mountains, this historic estate dates back to the 17th century, combining old-world charm with modern winemaking techniques.
At Rickety Bridge, we enjoyed an informative session about their production process, market strategy, and how they scale their offerings from boutique vintages to broader commercial lines. Their wines, especially their Pinotage, Chenin Blanc, and Shiraz, are a beautiful expression of the region’s terroir.
We were treated to a delightful wine and cheese pairing, followed by a relaxed three-course lunch with panoramic views of the vineyards. The combination of great food, bold wines, and brilliant conversation made this a highlight of the day.
Reflections on a Day of Discovery
This was more than just a wine tour—it was a real-world case study in how South Africa combines natural beauty with strategic business models. From international hotel chains to local vineyards, the theme of the day was clear: hospitality is about creating experiences that people remember and want to return to.
For my students, it was a chance to learn directly from professionals who are navigating real-world challenges and shaping the future of tourism. For me, it was a perfect blend of passion and practicality—exactly what travel should be.
Stay tuned for Day 5—more discovery awaits!