Stellenbosch South Africa - Cape Winelands

Stellenbosch is without doubt one of the prettiest little towns in the whole of South Africa. Situated at the head of the Eerste (First) River Valley, it was one of the first valleys to be settled in. The area is full of charming scenes and rich in history. The towns, villages and farmlands contain finely preserved examples of one of the most serene forms of domestic architecture found any where in the world - the Cape-Dutch style. Today's Stellenbosch still pays homage to culture and heritage, as the town has done since its humble Dutch origins. Each new generation of architects, buildings and town planners used the inspiration of their predecessors to ensure that the aesthetic values of Stellenbosch remained intact. The result is that to this day, the influence of many architectural styles over the last three centuries are to be seen in the meticulously restored buildings throughout the town. From the whitewashed Anglican church and museums surrounding the emerald green Braak - Stellenbosch's historical center - to the myriad Cape Dutch farmhouses and the 19th century university buildings, the town exudes history and good taste. Numerous interesting fables and tales are imbedded in its rich historic roots and you will hear about some of these when you do the "Stellenbosch on Foot" tour.

This visual effect of Stellenbosch is of course, compounded by the fact that the town is surrounded by spectacular mountains and some of the world's most famous vineyards adding to the town and region's attractiveness to the local and international tourist Known worldwide for its quality wines and the spectacular beauty of the surroundings Stellenbosch is home to one of the most prestigious old Wine Regions in the world. Visitors will be mesmerized by breathtaking scenery and warm South African hospitality. Here one can enjoy the juice of the vine in an awe inspiring historic setting.

Food and wine are perfect partners, no wonder there is such an abundance of restaurants in the Stellenbosch region. Stellenbosch boast three of the top ten restaurants in South Africa whilst Rust & Vrede won the global Wine Tourism Venue award. Gastronomic delights, to suit every taste, can be found in the many eateries in Town and on the many wine estates surrounding Stellenbosch. "Think quality, drink Stellenbosch" are the words that best explain the wine experience to be had on the many beautiful wine estates surrounding the "Town of Oaks". Stellenbosch Wine Route is the oldest wineroute in South Africa. It has been divided into five sub-routes to make the experience of travelling around easier. These routes include Bottelary Hills, Greater Simonsberg, Helderberg, Stellenbosch Berg and Stellenbosch Hills.

Stellenbosch is celebrating every season with enough events to keep you entertained and busy the whole year through. Starting in January with the annual University RAG, the Literature Festival (Woordfees) in the Autumn, Wine Fesival in the Winter and numerous festivals in the Spring - Stellenbosch is truly a town for all seasons. Apart from the six theatres, Stellenbosch is allso well known for live music performances at pubs, restaurants and wine estates. There is a musical or dramatic performance almost every day of the year.