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    Bouchard Finlayson

    Hermanus, Western Cape

    Bouchard Finlayson Vineyard Background

    A vineyard between heaven & earth

    Cradled amid the hills of the Hemel-en-Aarde (Heaven and Earth) valley,
    Bouchard Finlayson is widely acclaimed as one of South Africa’s leading boutique wine cellars.

    With a terroir defined by both ancient soils and a cool maritime climate, the vineyards of Bouchard Finlayson are famous for producing award-winning
    Pinot Noir, elegant Chardonnay and terroir-driven Sauvignon Blanc, while inspired blends showcase the depth of skill and innovation in our winemaking team.

    The Bouchard Finlayson cellar is conveniently located a scenic 90 minutes’ drive from Cape Town, close to the world-famous whale-watching centre of Hermanus.

    Meet the flagbearers of traditional Irish culture

    Enquire now
    Ashford castle Spa background pattern

    Fire, stone & wood: Itinerary 1

    Blacksmith hammering an iron rode with sparks

    The blacksmith

    Visit a working forge and learn how the bars of metal are transformed into the most ornate contemporary artwork by this internationally acclaimed blacksmith. Work the blacksmith’s bellows to redden the fire, take up the hammer and work metal on the anvil to make your own piece of artwork.

    irish craftmsan carving wood

    The furniture maker

    Follow the journey of our native Irish trees from sawn planks through the workshop to their final iteration as a beautiful piece of furniture. Learn the time-honoured skills of craftsmanship that shape this natural medium, find a real appreciation for the almost meditative qualities of working wood with hand tools.

    Man chiseling stone with a hammer and iron rod

    The stone carver

    A giant in the Irish craft scene for many years, this is a special opportunity to visit a stone carvers’ workshop and understand the inspiration behind his work, from sculptures made from limestone 25 tonnes in weight to the finest Carrara marble, creating the most delicate figures.

    Chisel, clay & cloth: Itinerary 2

    Cutting out a section of Irish tweed

    The textile designer

    A veritable force in Irish textile design, this local designer is pushing the boundaries of contemporary Irish fashion. Explore how Irish textiles are used to create handmade, one-off pieces that combine beautiful Irish fabrics with modern tailoring - a must-see for fashion aficionados.

    Spinning wet pottery on a pottery wheel

    The ceramicist

    Visit a local ceramicist's studio and peruse her collection of stoneware and porcelain inspired by the Connemara landscape. Known for experimenting with smoke-firing techniques and making her own glazes, join our ceramicist at her potter’s wheel and get a hands-on feel for throwing Irish pottery.

    Man drawing a line on wood with a ruler and pencil

    The contemporary carpenter

    Visit a woodwork designer at his intimate workshop and discover the long legacy of wood craftsmen in his family, fused with his own sense of contemporary design. As well as learning about the craft and his passion for woodwork, you will have the opportunity to try your hand at using traditional tools and working with Irish hardwood.

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    We are proud to be part of a number of select and exclusive collections and memberships that share our values of outstanding service, exceptional guest experiences and generous hospitality.

    Forbes Five-Star Award
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    London

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    Dorset

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    • 100 Princes Street

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    • Hotel d'Angleterre

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    • The Chesterfield Palm Beach

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