ZA
Stellenbosch
Oak-lined streets, Cape Dutch architecture and South Africa’s best-known wine route, under an hour from Cape Town
Oak-lined streets, Cape Dutch architecture and South Africa’s best-known wine route, under an hour from Cape Town
Often called the longest street of historic houses in South Africa, Dorp Street is lined with whitewashed Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian buildings under oak trees.
Photo: Lugerda, CC BY-SA 3.0
The Dutch Reformed “Mother Church”, with its tall spire, stands near the Village Museum, a group of historic houses furnished from different periods.
Photo: ECSequeira, CC BY-SA 3.0
The old town green is surrounded by historic buildings, including St Mary’s Church and the Burgher House.
Photo: Lugerda, CC BY-SA 3.0
The Stellenbosch Wine Route has more than 100 cellars. Many estates offer tastings, restaurants and mountain views; Pinotage and Chenin Blanc are local specialities.
Use a tour or driver if tasting.
Photo: Matthias Bethke, CC BY-SA 4.0
Just east of town, Jonkershoek Nature Reserve has hiking and mountain-biking trails through fynbos and mountain scenery.
Start hikes early in summer.
Photo: KodachromeFan, CC BY-SA 3.0
Wine estate restaurants are a highlight, alongside South African dishes such as bobotie, braai (barbecue) and bredie stews. The town centre has many cafés and bistros.
Many estates pair wine with cheese, chocolate or biltong.
Stellenbosch is about 50km from Cape Town, under an hour by car, and roughly 30 minutes from Cape Town International Airport. Metrorail trains run from Cape Town but can be unreliable.
A car, tour or driver is best for the wine estates. Take normal precautions, such as not leaving valuables in parked cars.
South Africa uses the rand (ZAR). Stellenbosch is good value for visitors.
Two days for the town and the wine.
Walk Dorp Street and the Braak, visit the Village Museum and dine in town.
Tour wine estates, or hike in Jonkershoek in the morning.
Do not drink and drive; book a tour or driver.
Hot; start activities early.
February to March is harvest season.
Keep valuables out of sight.
Quick answers for planning time in Stellenbosch.
About 50km, under an hour by car.
In 1679, by Simon van der Stel.
More than 100 on the Stellenbosch Wine Route.
A nature reserve just east of town with hiking and biking trails.
October to April, in the warmer, drier months.
Planning a wider trip? Our South Africa travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.