Stellenbosch (map) is a historic town in South Africa located approximately 45 minutes from Cape Town. Most tourists visit this vibrant university town as a day trip from Cape Town, but I recommend staying for a few days to truly appreciate the sights and attractions in and around the town. The town itself has beautiful streets lined with centuries-old oaks and historic Cape Dutch houses, as well as a plethora of wine bars, restaurants, and art galleries. Outside of town, you’ll find mile after mile of beautiful vineyards set against imposing mountains. Stellenbosch and its surroundings are one of my favorite places in the world, thanks to the stunning scenery and excellent wine and food experiences! If you’re thinking about visiting, here are my top 10 things to do in Stellenbosch to get you started
1. Tour the town of Stellenbosch
Begin by taking a stroll around Stellenbosch. The town, which was founded in 1679, is very compact and easy to explore on foot. There are numerous beautiful art galleries, shops, and museums to visit, particularly along Dorp Street and Church Street. As you walk around town, take note of the beautiful Cape Dutch architecture (with its white-washed façades and elegant gables). I recommend the Schoon De Companje, a lovely bakery/café on the corner of Bird and Church streets, for breakfast or lunch.
Visit the Stellenbosch Village Museum for a history lesson, and then visit Oom Samie Se Winkel, a Stellenbosch institution. If you’re interested in flora, go to the university’s Botanical Gardens.
Head to the Wijnhuis (Andringa St.), Bartinney Wine & Champagne Bar (Bird St.), or Craft Wheat and Hops for pre-dinner drinks (Andringa St.). Coopmanhuijs (this hotel/restaurant is housed in a beautiful 18th century manor and I highly recommend a stay/meal there) and Stellenbosch Kitchen are two restaurants in the town centre that I can recommend (part of the Stellenbosch Hotel).
Make Stellenbosch your base for exploring the surrounding beauty. There are numerous wineries in this area, and many of them offer much more than just wine tasting. Some have world-class restaurants, while others offer fun vineyard tours or one-of-a-kind tasting experiences. Pinotage, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and various blends are typical wine varietals to try. Some of my favourite wine-related experiences in Stellenbosch include:
2. Things to do in Stellenbosch | Wines and chocolates
Visit the grand Waterford Estate if you enjoy chocolate and wine. Kevin Arnold, chief winemaker, collaborates with chocolatier Richard von Geusau to create this one-of-a-kind wine-tasting experience. It comes highly recommended by me.
3. Things to do in Stellenbosch | Create your own wine blend
My personal preference! At the Middelvlei Wine Estate, you can create your own wine and have it labelled with your name to take home! Enjoy a ‘boere tapas’ (farmers tapas) or grilled specialties prepared by Middelvlei’s braaimaster while you’re there!
4. Things to do in Stellenbosch | Go on a wine safari with the Big Five!
The Warwich Estate is located near Stellenbosch, at the foot of some impressive mountains. Take a safari jeep ride up into the mountains for a one-of-a-kind wine tasting!
5. Things to do in Stellenbosch | Take in the duck parade!
The charming town of Vergenoegd is home to the increasingly popular duck parade. You must see it to believe it! Every day between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. If you want to travel to South Africa, book a South Africa trip or stay in a South Africa safari lodge. Live your best life today.
6. Things to do in Stellenbosch | Take a Segway tour of the vineyards.
You must be sober to do this! Visit the sprawling Spier Wine Farm and take a Segway tour around the vineyards. The scenery is breathtaking! While you’re there, look at the beautiful African art in the main buildings and eat at Eight restaurant.
7. Enjoy a spectacular sunset followed by an unforgettable dining experience!
On the Helshoogte Pass road, the Delaire Graff and Tokara estates are almost opposite each other. Delaire Graff offers simply breathtaking views of the mountains (which turn red at sunset! ), whereas Tokara offers panoramic views of the vineyards and Table Mountain in the distance. Both vineyards have excellent restaurants, making them ideal for sunset drinks and a delicious meal!
8. Things to do in Stellenbosch | Take part in the Kayamandi township tour
Kayamandi is a township on the outskirts of Stellenbosch. Meet the locals, listen to their stories about life in the township, and learn about (and eat) traditional Xhosa cuisine on a guided tour of the township. I highly recommend Bites and Sites’ tour.
9. Things to do in Stellenbosch | Visit Jonkershoek Nature Reserve
The vast Jonkershoek Nature Reserve is part of the Cape Floral region, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a leisurely hike to discover the unique flora and take in the breathtaking mountain views. More information about the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve can be found here.
10. Indulge in a spa treatment.
Majeka House is one of my favourite Stellenbosch hotels. It’s located just outside the city centre and has a fantastic restaurant as well as one of the best spas in the region. Select from a number of treatments. Another spa that I can recommend is the Lanzerac Spa. The Spa is absolutely stunning, with panoramic views of the mountains and vineyards.
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