Stellenbosch Area Guide

Welcome to Stellenbosch – South Africa’s second oldest town and most inspiring wine, food, art and cultural destination. The scenic Stellenbosch Wine Route is the oldest in the country and one of the most popular destinations for local and international visitors alike. We’ll introduce you to unforgettable cellar door experiences, award-winning wine estates, celebrated restaurants and Stellenbosch’s unique and enviable lifestyle.

Stellenbosch is an ideal getaway year-round. Its historic town centre is a living museum with a vibrant street culture. Expect friendly locals, a host of lively events (from art, music and history to outdoor pursuits) and natural scenery to rival even our finest grape.

Highlights and attractions

Stellenbosch Gardens

Spring and Summer are the ultimate times to hit the road in search of gorgeous gardens. From the natural splendour of the natural Renosterbos and indigenous, to perfectly manicured wine estates, and the national treasures of botanical gardens in between. Stellenbosch play host to avast variety of gardens that can be experienced in many different ways. So, put on your comfy shoes, sun-hat and camera and explore the gardens of Stellenbosch.

Stellenbosch Wine Route

We represent more than 200 wine and grape producers within the boundaries of the Stellenbosch Wine of Origin classification. The Greek philosopher Plato remarked : ‘Nothing more excellent or valuable than wine has even been granted by the gods to man’. You will need to plan carefully your trip along the wine route in order to maximise your enjoyment of it. There is so much to see and experience it's probably best if you do over the course of a few days to make sure you enjoy your Stellenbosch Wine Routes experience.

Stellenbosch University

Stellenbosch University (SU) is home to an academic community of 29 000 students (including 4 000 foreign students from 100 countries) as well as 3 000 permanent staff members (including 1 000 academics) on five campuses. ​The historical oak-lined university town amongst the Boland Mountains in the winelands of the Western Cape creates a unique campus atmosphere, which attracts local and foreign students alike. On the main campus, paved walkways wind between campus buildings – some dating from previous centuries; others just a few years old. Architecture from various eras attests to the sound academic foundation and establishment of an institution of excellence. This, together with the scenic beauty of the area; state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly facilities and technology, as well as visionary thinking about the creation of a sustainable 21st-Century institution, makes for the unique character of Stellenbosch University.