Set against the backdrop of the Helderberg and Stellenbosch mountains, the 180-hectare Asara Wine Estate and Hotel is aptly named after the African gods Astar, Asis and Asase, who represent the earth, sun and sky. Vineyards stretch out across rolling hills and a series of lakes reflect the mood of the sky.

First farmed in 1691, the estate has a long tradition of producing quality red and white wines. If you book in advance, winemaker Francois Joubert will take you on a tour of the cellar, which was once the old manor house. Otherwise, the tasting room is open all day.

Although the sprawling estate is some distance from the town of Stellenbosch, there is still plenty to do. Take a walk through the vineyards and unwind in the whiskey bar – Sansibar – when you return. The resident pastry chef bakes fresh breads, pastries and cakes for the delicatessen, which is also stocked with artisanal cheeses, meats and preserves from local farms. Asara has an in-house chocolatier who is happy to show visitors her craft in the kitchen below the deli. If it is fine dining you’re after, Raphael’s Restaurant won’t disappoint. Weather permitting, grab a table on the deck – the view is hard to beat!

Although the estate doesn’t have its own spa facilities, the hotel staff will happily arrange for a local therapist to give you a treatment in the comfort of your room. The décor is a little staid, but the rooms are spacious and luxurious. Those with balconies overlooking the vineyards are particularly conducive to whiling away the afternoon, a glass of lightly-wooded Asara chardonnay in hand.

The service – from the porters who greet you at your car with an umbrella to the receptionist who offers you a glass of wine on arrival – is uniformly good. Without exception the staff are courteous and helpful, and that (perhaps even more than the magnificent landscape and fine dining) is what makes Asara special.