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Winelands Tour
Learn about the Winelands of South Africa and sample a variety of its wines as you visit the towns of Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.
Winelands Tour, South Africa
The Winelands encompasses an area containing the towns of Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, the earliest European settlements outside the Cape colony. Those early settlers soon realised the local soil and climate were excellent for cultivating vines, and with the arrival of French Huguenot refugees bringing advanced viticulture techniques the region began to produce the quality vintages it is now famous for.
The tour begins at Paarl, the town that is the spiritual heart of the Afrikaans language, for it was here that the first Afrikaans newspaper was published and where many significant developments in the language took place. Above the town, perched on Paarl rock and enjoying superb views over the mountains, fields and vineyards is the Afrikaans Language Monument.
From Paarl you continue to Franschhoek, pausing en route to visit well-known estates for the chance to sample fantastic local wines. At Franschhoek you visit the Huguenot Monument and Museum before continuing to Stellenbosch, the oldest Winelands town, where Victorian street frontage is shaded by avenues of 300-year old oaks.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by calling one of our South Africa specialists on 01993 838 550
Photos of Winelands Tour
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![The prison Mandela was released from just outside of Paarl]( "The prison Mandela was released from just outside of Paarl")
The prison Mandela was released from just outside of Paarl
Places to stay nearby
Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favourite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can’t be bettered.
The Last Word Constantia
Situated in the heart of the Cape's oldest wine region, The Constantia is an elegant and luxurious boutique hotel offering spacious accommodation.
The Vineyard Hotel
This hotel suits those who seek comfortable and familiar surroundings in their hotels, and also enjoys a great location.
Experiences while staying here
The following activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences of the area where you’re staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident’s eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can also suggest outdoor pursuits and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the traditions of the area’s inhabitants.
Robben Island Excursion
Your tour will be conducted by a former inmate, which gives a truly unique perspective. As well as the communal cells, where most prisoners were kept in conditions of severe overcrowding, you will also see the tiny cells of B-Section, where Nelson Mandela spent much of his incarceration here.