Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch is known to most people for its wine tastings. But Stellenbosch has much more to offer!

The heart of the Western Cape wine region.

There’s a good chance that Stellenbosch is the most Dutch-influenced part of South Africa you’ll see during your trip. In late 1670, Simon van der Stel, governor of the Cape of Good Hope, discovered Stellenbosch. Shortly after, the first Dutch settlers established themselves in this new frontier village, 'Van der Stel se bosch,' located by the 'Eerste Rivier' (First River). Today, this town forms the heart of the Western Cape wine region.

Vibrant character

Stellenbosch is known to most people for its wine, wine tastings, and even more wine. Rightly so! Because this is what Stellenbosch does best. But Stellenbosch is more than just wine! There are also delightful food markets, beautiful bike rides through nature or vineyards.

For adventurers who are less interested in wine and more into beer, Stellenbosch offers options as well. Visit the Stellenbrau brewery. You can also explore famous art museums or enjoy a day of golf. The charming Stellenbosch is very diverse, and thanks to the university, it has a vibrant character. In the evenings, there’s always something happening, and you’ll find various restaurants with delicious food and trendy bars for a drink. Stellenbosch is very compact, so finding a nice spot only takes a few steps.

Bus, tram or bike?

Back to the wine... Because let’s be honest: who doesn't love a good glass of wine now and then!? There are so many ways to enjoy a wine tasting. You can sit back and relax on a bus tour. Or make your tasting even more special with a tram ride (yes, a tram!) from Franschhoek to sample some delicious wines.

Another option is to bike off those wines by turning it into a mountain biking tour. You cycle from one vineyard straight into the next! This last option is our personal favourite; every time you reach a new vineyard, you’ve really earned a glass of wine with a snack. Don’t forget to smell, swirl, gargle, and smack your lips! Just like the true wine connoisseurs would.

Gastronomic enjoyment in the Robertson Wine Valley

The Cape Winelands, the name itself says it all: enjoyment! We all know Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, but Robertson should not be missed from the list. Are you getting a bit curious? It’s just under a 2-hour drive from Cape Town, and you’ll be surrounded by vineyards with a glass of wine in your hand.

Welcome to Robertson Wine Valley

After a good hour of driving, the mountainous landscape turns greener, and the vineyards of Robertson come into view. But first, Montagu – it's as if time has stood still here. The houses are characterized by graceful facades.

In addition to the vineyards, this friendly village is also known for its hot springs, rugged nature, and beautiful hiking opportunities. It’s a popular destination for rock climbers. Don’t rush through this village, before you know it, you'll see the welcome sign for Robertson! Everywhere you look, you’re surrounded by vineyards and towering mountain ranges. The green vineyards are in full bloom starting in November. Robertson lies along the Breede River, the lifeline of the region, which is typically very warm and dry.

The Robertson Wine Valley Association was founded in 1983 to improve the local wine industry, promote the valley as a destination, and uplift the community. This area is home to nearly 50 wineries and is best known for its delicious Chardonnay and Shiraz. The association has one passion: to create the most memorable wine and food experiences, offered through unique, authentic rural hospitality. This is partly due to the many citrus and apple farms in the area, which give the wine its eccentric flavor. But don’t worry, when you visit this area, the secrets of good wine will be thoroughly discussed. And indeed, in a wine region, you'll be doing wine tastings!

Sleeping between the cacti

At such a place, you obviously want to enjoy to the fullest, we get that! And if there’s one thing you can do in the Cape Town area, it’s indulge gastronomically for a very good price. You’ll sleep in a stylish, small-scale accommodation right in the heart of the wine region. Grab a glass of wine or take a dip in the pool in the colorful garden filled with unique cacti. Tonight, you’ll enjoy a gastronomic treat at The Succulent. Here, you’ll dine in a renovated, old barn surrounded by a botanical garden full of succulents. It’s both a refined and simplistic dining experience. Start with smoked duck and oven-cooked quail, followed by a juicy springbok as the main course, and finish with a homemade strawberry tart topped with a mascarpone cream. All made from local products, paired with wines that represent Robertson Wine Valley.

The surrounding area

After this culinary evening, how about something sporty in the morning? This is the perfect base to explore the surroundings. How? Go hiking in the Langeberg Mountains, run through the vineyards, play golf in Montagu, or simply enjoy your holiday by the pool at the accommodation. However, the most enjoyable activity, in our opinion, is wine tasting... Go on a wine safari and discover the flavours of the region. Of course, the driver will ensure everyone gets home safely. It would be a shame if we had to spit out all those wines...

Our routes

South Africa is, of course, massive and offers countless beautiful places to explore. Take the Garden Route, for example. The most popular coastal route in South Africa. Absolutely impressive, but due to the massive amount of tourism and because we really want to focus on what we do best, we choose not to offer this route.

We focus on off the beaten track experiences and routes, away from mass tourism. We want to show our travellers as much as possible of the authentic side of South Africa. In South Africa, we opt for routes with relatively short travel distances, where you can experience safari, nature, tropical coasts, and mountains all in one. With a variety of activities, from unique hikes to beautiful boat trips, from diving to ziplining and horseback riding, and as the cherry on top, culture too! That's why we focus on two regions: the truly off the beaten track Western Cape and The Eastern Loop! This way, you can fully enjoy the beauty South Africa has to offer.

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1. Africa is our home

We know it from the farthest corners, and that results in amazing trips. We put them together by venturing out there ourselves. Believe us, you won't find these experiences anywhere else!

2. Local experiences

That means you'll visit local people in their villages and communities. Hike with the Masai, cook with your host family in a homestay, and cast a line with traditional fishermen.

3. You decide

So, what are you in the mood for? We'll custom-tailor the entire trip to your wishes. And you can count on us along the way, even in the middle of the night.

4. Travel responsibly

While you enjoy your dream trip, you'll be contributing to the development of local communities, economies, and the environment. That feels good!

Stellenbosch

The heart of the Western Cape wine region.

Vibrant character

Bus, tram or bike?