Stellenbosch

A Little Overview of Stellenbosch

The historic town of Stellenbosch is located 45 minutes from Cape Town. Its known as a university town and a world-class wine region. It is a city that is elegant, artistic, laid-back and exudes a touch of old-world charm

Stellenbosch is South Africa’s second-oldest town, wrapped in vineyards and ringed by dramatic mountains. With its oak-lined streets, Cape Dutch architecture, and renowned wine estates, it’s the perfect mix of culture, cuisine, and countryside.

It’s Ideal for day trips or a few nights away from the city. Stellenbosch offers a slower pace, gourmet indulgence, and plenty of beautiful landscapes. Personally, I would consider staying here for a couple of days to really enjoy this part of South Africa.

Key Highlights in Stellenbosch

Wine Estates Galore

I have to start with “wine”! It is home to some of South Africa’s best-known wine farms, like Spier, Delaire Graff, Warwick, Tokara, and Rust en Vrede

You must visit some of these estates, even if you are not a wine drinker. They are wonderful to walk around, learn about their wine making journeys, enjoy lunch and just soak in the calmness and serenity around you.

If you enjoy your wine, then you are in for a treat. Wine tastings, cellar tours, and gourmet pairings are all available in the most stunning settings

Many estates even offer art galleries, restaurants, gardens, and spa experiences so they really cater for all visitors.

The Historic Town Centre of Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch is an easy town to navigate. Its very walkable and filled with heritage buildings, quaint cafés, galleries, and boutiques. The Village Museum brings the town’s 300-year history to life and you can gain an excellent insight into how people lived over the period.

Early settlers to Stellenbosch, particularly the French Huguenots, brought winemaking knowledge and vines with them, giving rise to a thriving industry. Stellenbosch is one of the oldest wine-producing areas in the Southern Hemisphere.

Over the centuries, Stellenbosch developed into the heart of South Africa’s wine culture. It is now home to over 150 wine estates and some of the country’s most prestigious labels.

Cape Dutch Heritage

As the town grew, it became known for its distinct Cape Dutch architecture—whitewashed walls, thatched roofs, and gables. Many of these original buildings still line the streets today, particularly in the well-preserved Dorp Street, giving Stellenbosch a charming, old-world feel.

Academic & Cultural Hub

In 1918, Stellenbosch University was founded—one of South Africa’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. It helped establish the town as a center of Afrikaans language, literature, and culture, though also played a controversial role during the apartheid era, with close ties to the former regime.

Today, the university gives Stellenbosch a young, vibrant, and international atmosphere, blending history with innovation.

Art, Culture & Creativity

If you’re an art lover, you will enjoy numerous galleries and sculpture gardens (like Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden). There are also street markets, design shops, and music events bring a creative buzz to this city.

Modern Legacy

Stellenbosch has transformed into a town of contrasts both historic and forward-thinking, deeply traditional yet modern, with its past acknowledged and its future increasingly shaped by inclusivity and creativity.

Stellenbosch is a place where vineyards meet vintage charm, where stone lanes whisper stories, and where history is always present but never stands still.

World-Class Dining

Stellenbosch is a foodie paradise. There are some seriously good restaurants here including:

• The Restaurant at Delaire Graff
• Overture
• Jordan
• Spek & Bone
• Fat Butcher

Here you can experience real farm-to-table dining, wine-paired menus, and an elegant ambiance

Outdoor Fun

There is so much to do in this beautiful part of South Africa. You can cycle through vineyards, hike in Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, or picnic on estate lawns. If you’re a horse rider, then why not go horseback wine tastings for something different. I chose to go round the vineyards on a segway which was great fun but there are also vintage sidecar tours!

Where to Stay

• Lanzerac Wine Estate – historic luxury with a spa and incredible wine
• Majeka House – boutique comfort with modern flair
• Oude Werf Hotel – in the heart of town, oozing character
• Van der Stei Manor – old Dutch homestead in town
• Clouds Wine & Guest House – private estate with incredible views

Why Go?

If you love fine wine, gorgeous scenery, history, and a touch of indulgence, Stellenbosch is your sweet spot. It’s romantic, relaxing, and rich in culture—making it one of the must-visit gems just outside Cape Town.