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Ataraxia

Winery Description



Location and History

In 2004, The Skyfields Farm transformed into the Ataraxia wine label when Kevin and Hanli Grant, and a few friends, purchased this 47-hectare prime vineyard property. Nearly two decades later, Ataraxia is renowned for producing wines of exceptional finesse, balance, and depth, earning a respected place on the international wine stage.
At Ataraxia, you can enjoy stunning views of vineyards, valleys, and mountains from the chapel-like Wine Lounge while sampling some of South Africa's most exciting wines.

Derived from the Greek term meaning “a serene state of mind, free from worry and preoccupation,” Ataraxia lives up to its name. Ataraxia Wines is perched on a hill in the picturesque Hemel-en-Aarde wine-growing region. A scenic 25-minute drive from the coastal village of Hermanus, the journey brings you to the highest point of these winelands.

The region is close to the South Atlantic Ocean and enjoys a particularly mild climate, ideal for cultivating grapes that thrive in cooler conditions. The estate boasts fourteen distinct soil types, including Table Mountain Sandstone, Cape Granite, and Bokkeveld Shale. These geological formations, dating back more than 550 million years, contribute to the ancient soils of the Hemel-en-Aarde area. The estate lies on the highest section of Hemel-en-Aarde, featuring a unique and convoluted landscape. All the vineyards are planted on these elevated, predominantly south-facing slopes. Currently, twelve hectares are under vine, with plans to expand by an additional twelve hectares.

Wine Tasting

Four wines comprise the main Ataraxia range: an unwooded Sauvignon Blanc, a wooded Chardonnay, a Pinot Noir and a red blend called Serenity. Their Wine Lounge tasting room is spectacular. Built as a chapel in the vernacular architectural style of the Overberg region, it offers a unique space for relaxed contemplation of the four wines in our range.

Restaurant

Accommodation

Tours and Activities

For cyclists and hikers, an MTB course traverses through Ataraxia, all the way from the bottom of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Cycle permits must be obtained and purchased at ‘Village Cycles’ between Monday to Saturday, located at the bottom of the valley road in Hemel-en-Aarde village, next to Wine Village.

Visitors are welcome to hike for free on the trail. However, several guiding companies also take people on hikes through this area, including www.glamtrails.co.za/creation-ataraxia and www.africansunroad.com/hermanus-wine-walk/. Please note that these tours, guides and routes are not affiliated with Ataraxia and as such, they cannot answer queries.