As some of you might know, I am very excited and honoured to be involved with the upcoming #Stellenblog campaign as the local host blogger – I’ll be the one showing the rest of the group around my town! For those of you that don’t know what #Stellenblog is, you can follow the hashtag on various social media platforms, and quickly find out more.
The group of international and local bloggers will be living in the heart of Stellenbosch wine country, in a soon-to-be-revealed villa on a working wine farm. From there they will explore and uncover Stellenbosch as a multi-layered destination, and experience some fantastic local food, wine, people and places.
“The itinerary of discovery planned for #Stellenblog is complex and full of surprises, for the bloggers to peel away the layers of Stellenbosch and share their first hand experiences with the world. It will also aid in collecting authentic content for the region to use on our own web platforms and for promotional activities,” explains Annareth Bolton, CEO of the Stellenbosch Wine Routes.
“Through #Stellenblog we aim to expose Stellenbosch beyond the veneer of its Cape Dutch history and the wine bottle. We want to introduce the world to a place that has a far more interesting story to tell and invite visitors to come and discover the warm heart of South Africa’s wine and gourmet capital.”
This campaign was designed by Mariette du Toit-Helmbold from Destinate for Stellenbosch Wine Routes. Says Mariette: “Word of mouth through social media is now the most powerful tool for any destination marketer today and this is being utilised fully through the campaign.”
As I cannot reveal too much of the upcoming secret adventures yet, I thought I’d give you some hints as to what the group can expect during the #Stellenblog week:
- one of the best launch parties the Winelands have ever seen (I’ve seen the food and wine contributors for this event, and it’s going to blow your socks off…)
- a lekker intimate local braai at the villa, cooked by one of Stellenbosch’s top chefs (actually, one of SA’s top chefs)
- the chance to learn how to cook local Stellenbosch cuisine, using age old recipes passed on through generations
- dinners at some of the best fine dining establishments in town
- experiencing historical Stellenbosch on foot
- a secret vineyard lunch experience
- a luxury pampering session
- exploring surrounding wine farms by alternative transport…
Need I say more? This is only the tip of the iceberg. #Stellenblog is coming!
Hi. I am an newbie bloggie that loves Stellensbosch. I used to come there quite often when I yielded the corporate ball and chain. How does one get involved? I am happy to be a water boy (You don’t even have to feed me)
Hi Fathima, so nice to hear from you! I think all our organisational stuff has been finalised, but you’re welcome to go to http://www.stellenblog.co.za and contact the Stellenbosch Wine Routes team to hear if they still need anything! All the best of luck! x