A blend of historical architecture, student life, epicurean delights and oak-lined avenues, Stellenbosch is a picturesque university town surrounded by mountains and vineyards. A walking tour of the town centre allows visitors to take in its beautifully preserved Cape Dutch and Victorian architecture, as well as art galleries, craft shops, clothing boutiques and gift stores, while foodies may prefer indulging in cuisine and fine wines at one of the chic restaurants or bistros. Stellenbosch is also the ideal base from which to explore the renowned local wine route, boasting a high proportion of the country’s leading wine estates.

ITINERARY 
Paarl wines are now world renowned, primarily for the quality of their Shiraz while Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinotage, Viognier and Cabernet Sauvignon are also increasingly well regarded, and the region is home to some of the Western Cape’s most influential wineries. Less than an hour’s drive from Cape Town, the region has earned international acclaim not only for its Paarl wines but also the breath-taking beauty of its natural surroundings. The name Paarl means ‘pearl’ and reflects the way the ancient granite mountains, which early Dutch settlers called ‘den Diamond ende Peerlbergh’ (‘the diamond and pearl mountain’), glisten in the distance. 

We visit the Murati Wine Estate to enjoy a morning wine tasting (5 wines) complete with chocolate pairing. Choose your favourite wine and then enjoy a glass of it as you sit under the trees and take in all the ambiance. 

We also include a cellar tour at Babylonstoren in Franschhoek which offers 10 tasting and a view of the beautiful garden. 

After a scenic drive over Helshoogte mountain pass we reach Stellenbosch. The town, also known as the “City of Oaks”, has giant oak trees shading the streets, which are lined with picturesque cafes, boutiques and art galleries. The Cape Dutch architecture dates back to South Africa’s Dutch colonial history. Our guide will take you on a walking tour of the historic town before we make out way to Simonsig Estate where we enjoy an afternoon wine tasting with cheese platter!