|
An hour’s drive north-east of Cape Town is some of the most stunning countryside to be found anywhere in the world – a land of majestic mountains and lush valleys, of vineyards and scented orchards. Browse through historic towns, quaint villages and gracious homesteads, which represent the very best in Cape Dutch architecture.
The early white colonists of South Africa founded a number of small towns in the area – Stellenbosch in 1679, Franschhoek 11 years later, followed by Paarl, Wellington and Tulbagh, all worth visiting for their history, beauty and award-winning wine estates.
South Africa’s second oldest town, Stellenbosch, lies in a fertile valley surrounded by vineyards, orchards and mountains. It is an academic and farming community, and one of the best preserved towns in South Africa. The town is built on history, and much of its historic buildings can be seen along the oak-lined Dorp Street.
Stellenbosch, synonymous with high quality table wines, was the first wine route to be established in the country. Opened in 1971, it is made up of 44 wine cellars, all open to the public for tasting and purchasing of wines. Other attractions in the area include Oom Samie se Winkel, one of the first trading stores established in Stellenbosch, and the Village Museum, comprising of four homesteads and gardens ranging from the late 17th to mid 19th century. The Spier Estate, on the outskirts of the town, features beautiful riverside gardens, encounters with cheetahs and birds of prey, an open-air theatre, a wine centre with shop, and Moyo at Spier, a highly recommended outdoor dining experience that captures the essence of African culture.
From Stellenbosch, drive over the scenic Helshoogte Pass to the picturesque town of Franschhoek, founded in 1688 on land granted to 200 French Huguenot refugees who had escaped persecution in France. Today Franschhoek is best known for its excellent restaurants, stylish shops, galleries and first-class boutique hotels.
The town of Paarl was named after the granite rock that resembles a giant pearl on the overlooking mountain, which is in fact the second largest granite rock formation in the world. The mountain and surrounding area have been proclaimed a nature reserve, and the circular route to the top offers the visitor panoramic views of the valley below. Delight in Paarl’s historical charm, culture, architectural heritage, wine and fruit farms.
Attractions in this area include the KWV Cellar, a major exporter of South African wine, and the wine estate Fairview, which is well-known for its excellent cheeses. Nederburg, an estate famous for its annual wine auction, award-winning wines and historic homestead, is also within the area.
With award-winning wine estates, restaurants and scenic beauty throughout, it’s no wonder that the Cape Winelands region is a favourite of local and foreign holidaymakers looking for peace, quiet and quality fare.
|
