Winelands in Western Cape

The Winelands, a beautiful mountainous area very close to Cape Town, has been producing wine for over 300 hundred years. Below is a brief description of the towns that make up the winelands.

Stellenbosch is situated 30 minutes from Cape Town was established in 1679 and is the second oldest town in South Africa. This town is known for its university and its student life, with its historic buildings, peaceful atmosphere and oak trees it is an ideal place to relax and enjoy wine. There are plenty of wine farms in the area. Accommodation in Cape Town - Stellenbosch

Franschoek known as the culinary capital of the Western Cape is a smaller town located in between tall mountains. The name Franschoek means "French corner", because the original settlers were from France. The town has beautiful architecture in French Dutch style with a real village feel about it, local produce is also available. Some fantastic wine farms are situated throughout the area around the village. Accommodation in Cape Town - Franschhoek

Wellington lies in a charming valley on the banks of the Kromme River with the imposing Hawequa Mountains above it. This town is rich in culture, religion and education. It is a wonderful area in which to enjoy the Winelands and scenery of the Western Cape. Accommodation in Cape Town - Wellington

Paarl, the third oldest town in South Africa, is situated between the Paarl Mountains with its magnificent 50 million year old granite boulders and Du Toitskloof Mountain. The town consists of plenty of historic farms which contribute to the country lifestyle and atmosphere. Accommodation in Cape Town - Somerset-West

Somerset West is situated just a 30 minute drive from Cape Town, is home to Vergelegen the oldest and most beautiful wine estate in the Cape. This town is also in easy reach of several beaches, Strand being the closet to the centre of the town. Accommodation in Cape Town - Paarl

Others traditionally, when referring to the Cape Winelands, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl, Wellington and Somerset West are the towns people are usually speaking about. However since South African wine has under gone such a huge transformation other areas such as Constantia, Durbanville, Darling and Walker Bay should also be included in the winelands Accommodation in Cape Town - Constantia -Durbanville