Whether you’re in Cape Town for your #summerholidays from upcountry or enjoying a #staycation, head to the beautiful Boland towns of Paarl and Wellington for a spectacular summer holiday. Located within easy driving distance from Cape Town, this rural region is the perfect summer destination with a laid-back atmosphere, stunning scenery, fantastic food and wine as well as activities to suit the whole family.
The arrival of summer means it is time to head outdoors and enjoy the magnificence of the Cape winelands. Picnics, al fresco dining, outdoor performances and events all ensure that visitors enjoy a memorable summer season. If you want to stay active during your holidays, there are several premier golf courses, MTB and hiking trails, kayaking, quad biking, fishing, horse-riding and even croc cage diving on the adventure menu.
The Winelands Meander is a convenient way of exploring the region with different routes to pick from highlighting specific places of interest and activities. Each town also has its own heritage route that unveils the rich cultural history of the region and a wine &
In Paarl, you have six available routes, including the 8-Mile Route that explores exciting places of interest such as the iconic Language Monument, wineries, shops and restaurants along the Paarl Main Road – at 12,8km officially the longest in the country. The Gentleman’s Meander takes in golf courses, a polo estate, restaurants and top wineries as well as the statue of former President Nelson Mandela. Other routes will introduce visitors to destinations in Suid-Agter Paarl such as Fairview, Spice Route, Landskroon and the Alpaca Loom or alternatively to the Voor Perdeberg region with its award-winning wineries such as Windmeul and Perdeberg. Venture towards Simondium on the Simonsberg-Paarl route and discover gems such as Babylonstoren, Simonsvlei and Le Bonheur Reptile Adventures. Travel along the Dutoitskloof Meander and discover off-the-beaten track and historic wine estates with fabulous restaurants and outdoor activities.
Wellington offers five different routes on the Meander as well as its own heritage route and a wine & dine route. The Bo-Vallei Route is nestled against the foot of the Bain’s Kloof Pass and feature fabulous wineries, restaurants and plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking trails and mountain-bike routes.
The Village Route explores the rich history and diverse architecture of the town itself as well as various quaint stores and eateries. Tackle the Off-the-beaten Track Route on the outskirts of Wellington and get close to nature at a game reserve and guest farms or visit the only commercial whisky distillery in the country.
The Horseshoe and Beyond Route will introduce visitors to an eclectic mix of well-known wineries, country estate living, horse riding and even a buchu plantation. The Bain’s Kloof Pass Route takes in stunning scenery with wine and brandy tastings and great restaurants. The pass itself is a national monument and offers incredible views, indigenous flora and fauna, crystal clear rock pools, campsites and hiking trails.
Both Paarl and Wellington are renowned for their child-friendly offerings and most establishments cater for children with yummy menus, dedicated play areas and fun activities.
For more information, visit www.paarlonline.com or visit the Visitor Information Centres at 216 Main Road, Paarl or 104 Main Road, Wellington.
For regular updates on activities and events in the area, follow the events page on Facebook. For easy navigation, remember to download the mobile app for VisitPaarl and VisitWellington from your app store.
