The perfect balance of small town tranquillity with that big city energy; Stellenbosch is the perfect little town to explore for the day.
At the foot of the Boland Mountains Stellenbosch is most well-known for its University and of course for producing some of the best wines around. Steeped in history it’s easy to feel like you’ve travelled back in time surrounded by beautiful Cape Dutch architecture and streets lined with towering oak trees.
From wining and dining, live music and shopping to outdoor adventures and markets there is so much to do and see, but just one day in this picturesque Dorp will definitely leave you wanting more.
Stellenbosch Mountains – Sarietha (flickr)
Morning Hike
Dragging yourself out of bed will be so worth it once you start hiking this stunning route at Jonkershoek Nature Reserve. Various routes are available but a short 2 hour hike to Tweede Waterval is a fairly easy trail along Eerste Rivier and best of all once you reach top you get to cool off under the waterfall so remember to bring a costume with you. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the natural indigenous beauty of the area and of course work up an appetite for breakfast.
Jonkershoek- Ramon – (flickr)
Breakfast
The best thing to do for breakfast is to head into town around Church Street and find a breakfast spot in this vibrant hub. Stellenbosch is home to so many top-quality restaurants and the options are endless but I would definitely suggest Basic Bistro, The Blue Crane and the Butterfly or Meraki.
After breakfast why not take a stroll through the streets of Stellies? Pop into some curio shops or treat yourself to some retail therapy at the lovely boutiques and artisan stores. There’s always a hidden treasure to be found and when you’re done you can finish it off with the world’s best ice cream (in my opinion) at Crème de Levain in Church Street.
Lunch at Root 44 Market
Root 44 – Tim Abbot (flickr)
Root 44 is a stunning market open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm at Audacia Wine Estate and the perfect spot for an afternoon meander through the many crafts, jewellery and other uniquely made items on offer. The ‘food tent’ and outdoor area is the perfect spot to put your feet up and enjoy some lunch and maybe a craft beer or two and let the kiddies loose on the fantastic play area and rolling lawns.
Wine Not?
Finally it’s time to see what Stellenbosch is most famous for. Now there’s plenty to choose from so that’s all up to what appeals to you most however by now you’ll be reaching the last few hours of daylight and maybe a Sunset Wine Tour will be just what you need to put the cherry on top of this perfect day.
Vergelegen is the perfect sunset stop with their Sunset Vineyard Wine Tour where you can have the ultimate sensory experience with spectacular views while tasting some award winning wines and munching on delicious canapes after which you can enjoy dinner at the Stables at Vergelegen. Find out more here.
Vergelegen Wine Estate- Andrew Grier (flickr)
By now you’ve definitely fallen in love with the charm and beauty that is Stellenbosch and it may be time to say goodbye but not to worry we both know you’ll be back very soon.
To linger longer in the winelands and to book your accommodation in Stellenbosch visit Accomodirect.com.
Disclaimer: Whilst this post has been sponsored by Accommodation Direct, all opinions and views expressed remain our own.
