Stellenbosch

Great destination and enjoyed it even as a regular traveller to the Cape Winelands.

Stellenbosch is a lovely relaxed town with numerous restaurants for casual or formal dining Botanical gardens and village museum are great to visit

Stellenbosch is a melting pot of academics, art, culture and history. With its historic buildings, scenic nature and excellent wine farms, it is bound to offer each visitor a unique and enjoyable experience.

Stellenbosch is a beautiful historical town with oak tree lined streets and is surrounded by magnificent mountains, wine farms and orchards giving a scenic beauty that is difficult to duplicate. Fine food in fabulous restaurants and eateries, fine wine, fine brandy, arts, theatre, music, beautiful architecture, outdoor living, adventure, leisurely lifestyle.....all within 50km of Cape Town and her fantastic beaches......what more can one ask for?

A city to which we will always come back.

Stellenbosch is a perfect romantic get away.

Fantastic town. Beautiful views. Good food and wine.

In the holidays, Stellenbosch is minus its students and thus becomes less manuc than normal - i.e. ideal time to visit.

There is no other place like Stellenbosch in the summer. The beautiful mountains and green vinyards are long remembered. A lunch at one of the town's restaurants is a must. The energy of the students spills over in the town. Stellenbosch will always be our favourite place to visit. Raymond and Lynette Driescher

We could have spent more time at Stellenbosch - lots to do and see.

Outstanding due to excellence. Place to relax away from Pretoria with a glass of wine in the hand and watching the students! If you eant to break away from stress, Stellenbosch the place to go!

Stellenbosch is my second home since Dilbeek/Belgium is sistertown. The projects we try to realise with Stellenbosch make the whole community better and nicer. I love the people, the place, the music, food and wine. Its a wonderful world A rainbow of good feeling.

A friendly beuatiful town.Centrally situated to explore the surrounded area's as far as Cape town. Will make this a regular base in future when visiting the wester Cape.

Historically importantant as the second town established by Dutch settlers to South Africa, the tree lined streets of Stellenbosch shares it's attractions between national and international businesses, tourists and the 26 thousand students of the University of Stellenbosch. In our experience all accommodation options in the winelands are very high quality and often beautifully designed. Just a few minutes from the centre of Stellenbosch is Bon Esperance B & B Guest House. A Victorian style house with accommodation in the main house and in the converted coach house. We stayed in a charming room with a black and white decorative theme and direct access to the garden and pool. Near the Rustenberg Estate is Wedge Farm on the outskirts of Stellenbosch. It offers 2 well designed apartments above the garages, with access to the large garden and shared pool for guests and is well placed for visiting the surrounding wine estates. Near Stellenbosch, the modest Bartinney Estate is at the very top of the Helshoogte Pass. We met winemaker Therese de Beer, who explained her work over a tasting in the quirky decorated tasting room. Nearby is Delaire Graaf, possibly the most lavish estate in South Africa: wines, state-of-the-art cellar, tasting lounge, dining, lodge and spa, boutiques, gallery art and landscaped gardens — yet the wine tasting experience is very civilised and easy-going overlooking the vines. On the other side of the Helshoogte Pass road, Tokara and Thelema are both great. The former has a lavish tasting and gourmet dining room, plus a delicatessen and cafe, all surrounded by fabulous contemporary landscape gardens. Thelema is a more modest offer, but has a tasting room with big windows overlooking the vines and some very attractive prints. They also own land at Southerland in the Elgin valley for white wine production. At Dornier the dramatic contemporary curved winery roof beyond the rectangular dam contrasts with the Cape Dutch tasting and bistro/restaurant building with aeronautical pictures reflecting the estate name. Laid-back free tastings on the terrace. The Rustenberg Estate has a contemporary tasting facility in the interior of an old Cape Dutch building, surrounded by lawns leading to a fabulous English style garden, bursting with a profusion of plants benefitting from the warmth of Cape summers. In the Jonkershoek Valley, beyond the Lanzerac Estate with it's beautiful hotel is Starke-Conde, where you can sample the wines in a pavilion accessed by a bridge in the landscaped dam. is At Simonsig one can taste the range of Cap Classic fizz and/or enjoy an excellent lunch on the terraces surrounding the dining room. Vergelegen, nearer Somerset West, is a beautiful old property that, apart from the tasting and formal dining, offers a gourmet picnic, set up under old camphor trees. A wonderful experience. Very different architecturally is Mancunian Paul Boutinot's Waterkloof, a huge glass box overlooking False Bay offering a contemporary cuisine dining experience to accompany the wines. Just off the N1, between Paarl and Stellenbosch on Suid-Agter Paarl Road, Suider-Paarl , the Fairview Estate offers a range of visitor attractions — most prominent being the goat and goat-tower featured on their wine bottle labels. Although a big tourist attraction with a restaurant, conference dining, cheese and bread shop in addition to the wine tasting and purchasing facility, it has a very friendly atmosphere and knowledgable staff. Unfortunately the attractive T shirts displayed on the walls are no longer for sale! In Stellenbosch the numerous historical buildings are often accessible and well maintained. Art and craft galleries, fashion boutiques and 'artisanal' provision stores attest to the buying power of tourists and wealthy local citizens. The University Botanical Gardens near the centre of Stellenbosch provide a shady respite for plant lovers. Also at Stellenbosch walking along the Eerste River takes you through the many sports facilities at the University Campus. The surrounding mountains have many walking options. At Jonkershoek Nature Reserve you can cycle, drive or walk round a circular route either side of the Eerste River to admire the mountain fynbos, birds and the occassional sighting of mammals. If walking beware of snakes. In Stellenbosch, we tend to gravitate to Java Cafe for comfort food: pastas, wraps or just some wine and Col Cacchio for it's ever changing range of very large pizzas. We also love the Tokara Estate Delicatessen for it's amazing contemporary environment and the restaurant at Simonsig is very good too.

A beautiful, peaceful place to be. Nice surroundings, great restaurants and shops. Good place to stay

What a wonderful historic town. My one disapointment is that it is becoming to commercialised. It is a good base to visit the surrounding scenic sites. I was treated very well by the geust house when I fell ill. The hospitality was heartwarming.

Stellenbosch is South Africa’s second oldest town and it has fondly been called ‘Eikestad’ or city of oaks. Moreover, its streets are home to some of the most beautiful surviving examples of Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian architecture in the Cape. Dorp Street, which happens to be 20 meters walk from De Hoek Manor, has been declared a national monument, so walking around this cosy old part of Stellenbosch, with its secluded lanes, water furrows, cosmopolitan restaurants and coffee bistros, with superb views of the mountains, vineyards and orchards, is an experience not to be missed. ‘Stellenbosch’ prides itself on its world renown wine. Not only does it have the oldest wine route in the country, and arguably the most famous, but the town also boasts one of the most modern experimental wineries in the world. Furthermore, the only viticulture and oenological department in the South Africa is based at Stellenbosch University. Culture truly abounds in Stellenbosch. South Africa’s oldest music school, the famous Stellenbosch Conservatoire, has its home here, including an impressive array of galleries and museums which house national and international art collections worth viewing. Hikers and nature lovers will want to explore Jonkershoek Nature Reserve where they can either go for a short, leisurely stroll up into the valley, or opt for the full-day Vineyard Hiking Trail, which meanders for 24 kilometres, starting on the slopes of the Papegaaiberg and winding its way through vineyards, forests, olive groves and coastal renosterveld.

Beautiful, historic town with magnificent surrounds, rolling vineyards and towering mountains. Charming and friendly South African hospitality, excellent restaurants and world class wineries!

The scenery is fantastic, the town itself was very busy.

A beautiful town and surroundings - the perfect base from which to explore the area and as a stepping-off place to Cape Town and beyond.

Choosing Stellenbosch as your winelands destination is not just about tasting some of the South Africa's finest wines! There is much more to Stellenbosch than that! Stellenbosch boasts no less than three fine dining restaurants listed in the top ten in South Africa! These are found in the surrounding vineyards of the Stellenbosch region. For those that would prefer a stroll into town, there are some fantastic restaurants to choose from, all promoting delicious South African cuisine. For a light meal option, Stellenbosch is renowned for its vibrant cafe culture, where one can enjoy a light meal in a relaxed and vibey atmosphere. The big distinguishing factor that separates Stellenbosch from any other winelands town is the fact that we are a College town! There are twenty thousand students living in Stellenbosch! The students bring a great energy to the town with music, art, drama etc. There is always something happening in Stellenbosch, all year round! Foreign visitors get to mingle with the local people in the cafes, restaurants, and pubs! People can safely walk around town, day and night! It's truly a unique winelands destination!

Stellenbosch is a wonderful area to visit. Beauty as far as the eye can see with majestic mountains to green lush vineyards during Summertime. The town has quaint shops and resturants (Ernie Els, the big easy, 96 winery road, Die volkskombuis, etc) and many historic buildings to visit. Obviously, Stellenbosch surrounds have some of the most famous wine farms that you can visit (Spier, Eikendal, Avontuur, Zevenwacht etc). If you enjoy tranquility, gastronomic delights and wine, this is the place to be.

A great way to spend a day in Stellenbosch, sampling some of the great wines on offer, is by bike. We had a great day on the Bikes 'n Wines Vineyard Meander tour - experienced guides, great scenery and lovely wines on offer. I'd highly recommend these tours to anyone visting the region.

If you enjoy wine and brandy, this is the place in South Africa to visit. All of the wine tours and brandy tastings that I went to (and I went to many) were well done and professional. The pleasant discovery that I made while at Stellenbosch was the fantastic day hikes up Stellenbosch and Helderberg Mountains. The view of the vineyards and the ocean was spellbinding and well worth the hike. But you must be in shape before attempting. The vineyards below Helderberg Mountain had some of the best red wines that I have ever tasted. Go for a hike in the morning and finish with a glass of Petit Verdot in the afternoon!

A fantastic historic town. The centre of town has a wonderful vibe. The wine farms are great to unwind after a busy day.

There are so many hidden gems in Stellenbosch town be it cafes, décor shops, antique shops or galleries. There is also have a wonderful Food Lovers market on Saturday morning which is really enjoyable with lots of yummy goodies. Accommodation must is the Lanzerac Hotel & Spa - the old 'Grande Dame' of Stellenbosch - steeped in history, elegance and beauty.

Stellenbosch as the second oldest town in SA radiates a feeling of youth and inspiration, enery and creativity. It offers a wide variety of affordable, excellent accommodation, cultural and sport activities, restaurants and street cafes, as well as friendly people who easily mix between economic, ethnic and educational levels. All this against a background of majestic mountains and unknown natural beauty. Unbeatable experience in terms of variety, beauty and positive energy, creativity and inspiration. A place to dream of and to treasure.

Most beautiful place in the world. Stellenbosch is great fun for the young and for elderly people. I will recommend the area for walking, hiking, mountain biking, wine tasting, bookshops, concerts, wonderful restaurants in town as well as beautiful venues out of town, cycling, child friendly, art shops, botanical gardens.

Most beautiful place in the world. Stellenbosch is great fun for the young and for elderly people. I will recommend the area for walking, hiking, mountain biking,wine tasting, bookshops, concerts,wonderful restaurants in town as well as beautiful venues out of town,cycling,child friendly, art shops, botanical gardens.

In the heart of the Winelands of the Western Cape, lies the university town of Stellenbosch - the oldest town in South Africa (younger only than Cape Town). A less the 30 km drive from Cape Town international airport, it is the perfect place to start or end your exciting visit to South Africa. Stellenbosch lies in the core of the famous wine region and it is a short drive from here to the excellent estates where excellent wines may be tasted - whether you decide to self-drive or take an organised wine tour, a wonderful time is ensure as some of the best wines in the world are grown and made in this incredibly beautiful region. Stellenbosch is also known for its excellent restaurants and guest houses - to suite every taste and pocket and you will receive a hearty welcome in this safe environment. Being the oldest town, Stellenbosch also has a lot to see for those interested in our South African history and culture - viz. museums, old buildings, interesting shops and galleries and many others. It is also a short and very picturesque drive to other villages of interest such as Franschhoek, Paarl, Somerset West (to name but a few) and of course, Cape Town, itself. You could also take a day trip around the coast to many naturally beautiful places and to do some whale viewing (in our Spring season) or other marine adventures all year around. Or take a trip inland over some of the magnificent mountain passes to picturesque neighbouring villages. Stellenbosch has several excellent golf courses, hiking, horse riding, fly fishing, in fact, almost any outdoor activity you can think of. There are even some smaller, excellent game reserves in the area. So, if you are planning a holiday to wonderful South Africa, Stellenbosch is a MUST. Come and spend a few nights here. You will certainly want to return!

There is a touch of Europe here with all the lovely wine farms, mountains and sidewalk cafes. The Spar in the Boord's buffet lunches make it so much easier for all working people, especially mothers. By far the majority of people are extremely friendly and most people greet others or at least give them a smile.

The best place to live, to visit, to eat out, to taste wine, etc. You can't go wrong, come to Stellenbosch and experience it!

The best place to live, to visit, to eat out, to taste wine, etc. You can't go wrong - come to Stellenbosch and experience it!

Come and see for yourself. Stellenbosch offers the tourist everything and more.

Breathtaking mountains, lush vineyards, quaint streets with vendors of all sorts of curios and curiosities, restaurants and wines to delight in. Stellenbosch has it all and more - a place and atmosphere which you will never forget.

As a resident of Stellenbosch, I feel it is the perfect place to get away from everything. Stellenbosch has a rich history with diverse people. The town boasts with local art, great food and, of course, excellent wine. Where else can you find great food, wine, shops and ice cream within 1 kilometer. Definately worth visiting!

Quiet and peaceful - really breathtaking views.

Stellenbosch is a great place to explore with lots of food, wine and outdoor adventures available.

Busy, vibey, great shops and cafes. Seemed very safe to walk around night and day.

Wow! Wow! Wow!

One of the nicest places we have seen in SA.

What a beautiful town, we loved it but must warn visitors: get a map and try and study it before you get there as there are no street name poles, the road names are often but not always written on the side of the curb and traffic was packed so there was no way of being able to read them while negotiating the traffic. Very strange considering so many tourists go through the town. Get to know the main roads names and interlinking roads so you have some idea before you get there.

Stellenbosch retains a Cape-Dutch charm with its oak tree-lined streets. It has the vibrancy of a university town, but it also has quiet corners and picturesque squares to enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine. Art galleries and museums, cafes and restaurants abound; together with all the essential facilities like banks and supermarkets. Don't miss the University Botanical Garden on Van Riebeck Street. A great base from which to visit the surrounding Winelands. Unfortunately, we were victims of an ATM scam, so visitors should be very wary when using these facilities.

My son is a first-year student at Stellenbosch University and I found the town beautiful with all its historical buildings. I did not have time to do any of the wine routes but hope to do this when I next visit Stellenbosch.

It is a national treasure with history, art, wine and fruit. Good quality of life!

We loved our visit to Stellenbosch. It has a lovely vibrant atmosphere and is ideally situated for vists to the Overberg area, Cape Town and West Coast. We were never at a loss for things to do or places to eat.

I love the beauty and atmosphere of the town.

It is a great town in the middle of countless beautiful wine farms with so much to do.

We recommend the town centre and big wineries for great entertainment. Try wine tasting, viewing animals at the estates and driving while taking in the great scenery. There are some good places to relax.

Old Stellenbosch is lovely. It is steeped in history but also has a young student vibe. There is lots to do. You need at least a week to do it justice.

Would have to come back and sample all the things that are available in Stellenbosch, including the restaurants and the Wine Route.

The area has lovely wine farms, but the town is too busy for our liking. There are friendly people in the town and area.

I did not feel safe! Enjoyed wonderful food and coffee shops but I always felt a bit uneasy in town!

I really enjoy staying in Stellenbosch. The town itself is stunning and there is a constant vibrant buzz of students all year round. Awesome restaurants, and a wide variety of clubs and bars for that friday night party.

A very friendly and clean town.

One of the safest towns. You can explore the town by foot. So many things to do like hiking, clubbing, pub crawling, wine tasting and dining.

I love to take my mountain bike and ride in the mountains around Stellenbosch. There are some awesome tracks that can be ridden from beginner level to advanced level. All are easy to get to and are great fun to ride. Rode Jonkershoek for the first time and it was fantastic.