Bustling with vineyards, heritage architecture, art and plenty of opportunities for outdoor dining, Angela Lloyd gives the low-down on why this region really is a destination for all seasons. Read her Stellenbosch travel guide.
A perfect day in Stellenbosch
Morning
Start the day with breakfast and an inspirational view at The Bakery on Jordan Wine Estate (jordanwines.com). Stop by the tasting room to try Gary and Kathy Jordan’s fine range of wines. At neighbouring DeMorgenzon (demorgenzon.co.za), the beautiful gardens and baroque music played in the vineyards are as much attractions as the wines. Take the 10-minute drive to Spier (spier.co.za), where local crafts and a wildlife outreach programme are among the features at this multi-faceted estate.
Lunch
You can remain at Spier for lunch and enjoy a pre-booked picnic on the lawns by the dam or river, tucking into organic, home-grown produce and a bottle of wine. Or opt for a bistro-style lunch in Stellenbosch at Wild Peacock (wildpeacock.co.za) (pictured above). There’s a wide array of delicacies in the food emporium, as well as plenty of tempting dishes made from local and imported ingredients. A wide selection of wines are all available by the glass.
Afternoon
Park your car behind Wild Peacock and take a five-minute walk to Stellenbosch 360 Information Bureau ( stellenbosch.travel) where registered guide Sandra Krige can take you on a 90-minute walking tour – an exceptional opportunity to hear about the 300 year-plus history and people of this beautiful town.
Evening & overnight
It’s about a 30-minute drive to your overnight lodgings at The Country Guesthouse (thecountryguesthouse.co.za), a gracious old Cape house set in lush gardens, with views of Table Mountain from one side, vineyards the other. Make your choice from cottages or family suites. The same owners run 96 Winery Road restaurant (96wineryroad.co.za), a favourite with locals, where Natasha Hughes’ country cooking is geared towards South African dishes and the wine list is acknowledged as one of the best in the region.
