| Click image to enlarge. |
The Winelands are a series of fertile wine producing valleys a short drive north of Cape Town. Unlike most of the world’s wine growing regions, the Winelands are not just about vines and wines, but also grand architecture and stunning mountain scenery. The towns of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschoek are among the oldest in the country and their streets are lined with beautiful Cape Dutch and Georgian houses.
The appeal of the Winelands is simple. They offer the chance to sample several hundred different wines in a historical and wonderfully picturesque setting that can be easily incorporated into a longer holiday as they are conveniently close to Cape Town and to the start of the Garden Route.
Stellenbosch is the capital of the Winelands and was the second town to be established by the Dutch settlers. It is a charming and attractive location hosting an abundance of old thatched and whitewashed Cape Dutch buildings and historic national monuments. The wine estates too, are most impressive with grand manor houses and beautifully laid out grounds, offering wine tasting and cellar tours as well as gracious farm accommodation and hidden restaurants.
The Winelands’ rich historical background allows visitors to experience the cultural heritage while visiting the many villages, galleries and museums in the area.