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.

A grand occasion

Summer Lodge is sufficiently large to rise effortlessly to the grand occasion, yet it has never lost the feel of a welcoming private home – whether you’re planning an impressive event for up to 70 guests, or a more intimate affair for between two and 24. You can also choose a marquee in the garden for up to 200 guests.

Equally important, there is a close knit team of experienced staff with all the skills, talent and enthusiasm required to make every moment utterly magical. Their attention to detail and passion for excellence are sure to exceed your every expectation.

The ceremony

Hold your ceremony in our local church, in the hotel's elegant Drawing Room, the intimate Dorchester Suite or weather permitting, outside in the hotel gardens with the idyllic Dorset countryside as your backdrop.

Saint Osmund's Church is located in the village, just 100 yards from the hotel, with the Drawing Room and Dorchester Suite in the hotel main building.

Intimate weddings

For intimate weddings, the beautiful and serene surroundings of Summer Lodge are perfectly suited to small celebrations as well as large lavish affairs. Whether you are opting for a celebration for just the two of you together, or with your nearest and dearest, our dedicated staff will make sure your special moment together is everything you could wish for.

The perfect venues

Drawing Room

The elegant Drawing Room is located next to the Bar and is beautifully decorated in a traditional style. Perfect for civil ceremonies of up to 40 guests, including the registrar, it's an ideal venue for the wedding ceremony, before enjoying drinks in the Bar or on the terrace.