• On the 11th February 1990 Nelson Mandela walked to freedom from the Victor Verster prison which is just outside Paarl. • Paarl has one of the longest main streets in Africa. • Many historic buildings and well-preserved examples of Cape Dutch architecture can be found along Main Road.
- Stellenbosch
The backpackers wine haven of South Africa can be found in Stellenbosch which is the centre of the wine producing region. The setting is exquisite with old oak trees that date back to their original plantings in the 1600’s, wide streets, graceful Cape Dutch architecture, cobbled rain drains and spectacular 360 degree views.
- Gordon's Bay and Strand
Only 30 minutes from Cape Town's airport, these two towns offer mountains, wine and glorious sea.
- Joostenbergvlakte
A country suburb of Cape Town, out in the winelands, where horses are as much at home as people.
- Tulbaghcape
Wine farms and mountains. You can get here on the train.
- Franschhoek
Nestled in the Drakenstein Valley, this is where the French first settled (and made wine) some 300 years ago. Franschhoek is noted for its many magnificent wine estates, the Franschhoek Vineyards Co-operative and the Huguenot Memorial and Museum.
- Ceres region
Surrounded by mountains, Ceres is the centre of a vibrant fruit growing industry. The surrounding areas are also well known for their fine wines, so why not go on an overnight tasting trip in the far flung parts of the winelands?
Paarl Western Cape
Nestled on the banks of the Berg River, Paarl is named after the enormous dome-shaped granite rock that overshadows the town. The town has played a significant role in the development of the Afrikaans language and culture and is home to the KWV wine co-operative – one of South Africa’s major wine exporters.
Established in 1720 as a base for settlers wanting to cross the mountains into the interior, Paarl is primarily a commercial centre and possibly not as attractive as other towns in this area although the surrounding countryside and vineyards are beautiful. Five passes wind over majestic mountain ranges that are often snow capped in winter, while the Berg River winds its way through lush countryside on its way to the Atlantic Ocean, bringing sustenance to the vineyards and orchards. On the southern slopes of Paarl Mountain, the tall spires of the Taal Monument (language monument) commemorate the role the town played in forming the Afrikaans language movement.
More about…
A brief history KWV Annual events include the Nederberg Wine auction in April
A brief history KWV Annual events include the Nederberg Wine auction in April
Feeling lucky?(randomly selected service providers from all regions)
In the Mdumbi River valley in the heart of rural Transkei, this small settlement on the coast has brilliant surf and great fishing. As there’s only one small shop, we suggest that self-caterers stock up before arriving.
(Coffee Bay,Wild Coast)
Tours, safaris and transfers.
(Pretoria City,Pretoria)
This backpackers is only 700m from the beach, with a sweet sea view.
(Warner Beach,South Coast)
An up-market Backpackers lodge at affordable prices
(Stormsriver,Garden Route)
Muizenberg's and Cape Town's original youth hostel. It is a mere stroll from Muizenberg beach.
(Muizenberg and Kalk Bay,Cape Town)
This Mozambiquan backpackers is situated in paradise.
(Vilanculos,Mozambique)
A great backpackers in the centre of Windhoek.
(Windhoek,Namibia)
Surrounded by nature.
(Scarborough and Kommetjie,Cape Town)
Located at the edge of a beautiful indigenous forest, close to animal sanctuaries, activities and adventures.
(Addo Elephant Park,Garden Route)
For the best Scuba diving on the South Coast and some of the best scuba in the world.
(Umkomaas,South Coast)
