Playbook 2025 Welcome to Stellenbosch
WELCOME TO STELLENBOSCH
INDEX
About Stellenbosch
Getting There
Getting Around
Fast Facts
Travel with Purpose
Give Responsibly
Street Savvy in Stellenbosch
Stay & Play in Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch Tour Operators
Accommodation
Stellenbosch Maps
Members Directory Visit Stellenbosch Contact Details
ABOUT STELLENBOSCH
Welcome to the warm heart of 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 sure to warm your heart year-round. Our historic town centre is a living museum with a vibrant street culture Expect friendly locals, a generous array of attractions and events (from outdoor pursuits to art, music and history) and natural scenery to rival even our finest grape.
There’s a Stellenbosch for everyone.
GETTING THERE
Stellenbosch is located approximately 50 km east of Cape Town and only 30 km from the Cape Town International Airport, making it an easily accessible destination for a weekend away, holiday or business trip for locals and international visitors alike
There are several ways to travel to Stellenbosch.
Driving is the most popular way to get to Stellenbosch. It is a relatively short drive from Cape Town, and there are a few routes to choose from, including the N2 and N1 highways and the R44 scenic route. The journey usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the traffic.
There are also private shuttle services providing door-to-door transfers and can be arranged in advance. The journey takes around an hour (from Cape Town) and is a good option for those who prefer not to drive
Taxis are available for those traveling to Stellenbosch. However, the cost of the journey can be quite high, and it is essential to use a reputable taxi service. Uber, widely available, is another convenient, cost-effective, and safe option for those traveling to Stellenbosch.
No matter which method of transportation you choose, the journey from Cape Town to Stellenbosch is relatively short and straightforward.
GETTING AROUND
Stellenbosch is a quaint university town with a compact and walkable town centre, so many visitors prefer to explore the area on foot. Walking is a great way to take in the town's historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere
One of the most popular ways to get around in Stellenbosch is by bicycle. Cycling is a great way to explore the vineyards and countryside around Stellenbosch
Uber is available in Stellenbosch, and it can be a convenient option for getting around the town or for traveling to nearby attractions If you want to explore the wider area, renting a car is a good option. Driving in Stellenbosch is relatively easy and there is plenty of parking available
For guests who would like to make the most of their visit to Stellenbosch and surrounds, there’s a diversity of tours, shuttle services and transport options to ensure you can explore our warm-hearted town, safely and easily without missing a beat.
FAST FACTS
Population
There are approximately 55 million people in South Africa and 6.2 million people in the Western Cape. Stellenbosch is considered a large town in the Western Cape The current population in Stellenbosch is approximately 196,036 of which 31,000 are students (according to 2021 population estimates / 2018 SU Stats).
Language
English is the main business and academic language; although there are 11 official languages in South Africa The main local languages spoken are English, Afrikaans and Xhosa With large numbers of foreign residents, the Cape Winelands also has significant German, Dutch, French, Italian, Chinese and Spanish communities with the available language skills to assist during an international business event
Water
It is safe to drink water from the tap in South Africa although bottled water is readily available as well
Currency
The South African Rand is the official currency in South Africa and foreign currency can be exchanged at the Cape Town International Airport, at commercial banks and at Bureaux de Change The exchange rate is extremely favourable for visitors
Tax
The majority of goods sold in South Africa are subject to a 15% Value Added Tax (VAT). Visitors are not exempt from paying VAT although they can claim it back if the value of the goods bought exceeds R250 To claim the VAT, the goods must be taken out of the country within 90 days from the date of purchase. Visitors who wish to claim VAT should go to the VAT Refund Administration Office or customs official at the port of exit For more information, please visit: www taxrefunds co za
Connectivity
South Africa offers a sophisticated internet network and Wi-Fi is readily available throughout the Western Cape There are a number of mobile networks available and SIM cards can be bought at airports and shopping centres.
Electricity
The electric current is 240 volts AC so visitors should bring a plug adaptor for three-pin sockets for small appliances Communities with the available language skills to assist during an international business event.
Driving
In South Africa, motorists drive on the left-hand side of the road. An international driver’s license will be required if a visitor wishes to drive while in South Africa
Time and Measurement
South African Time is GMT +2 There are no time differences within South Africa and no daylightsaving time. Shopping hours vary but shops are typically open from Monday to Sunday, 9 am - 5.30 pm The Eikestad Mall and Stellenbosch Square shopping malls, trade from 9 am - 6 pm Distances are measured in kilometres and metres Weight is indicated by grams and kilograms. Temperature is mainly measured in degrees Celsius.
Visas
Visas are issued by the South African missions abroad and must be affixed in the applicant’s passport before departing for South Africa Visas are not issued on arrival at South African ports of entry Many nationalities do not require a visa to enter South Africa, therefore it is best to check with the South African mission or with a travel agent if a visa is required
For more information, click here
Stellenbosch is well-positioned when it comes to health care There are private and government emergency units located within 5 minutes of the Stellenbosch CBD, in addition to primary emergency centre (Mediclinic Stellenbosch) and a Campus Health clinic The town has two ambulance services Stellenbosch boast two world-class hospitals, clinics, pharmacies and other health facilities Rest assured that should you need healthcare facilities in Stellenbosch, you’ll be well looked after.
The Western Cape is not a malaria region and there are no tropical diseases to be aware of and no vaccine requirements for visitors.
TRAVEL WITH PURPOSE
At the heart of Visit Stellenbosch is a determination to drive socio-economic development, focusing on job creation, skills improvement and enterprise development All stakeholders collaborate to create high-impact tourism-led solutions to tackle pressing social and economic issues and work together to develop opportunities for our communities to thrive
The areas of impact include skills training and employment, tourism enterprise development and localised ownership, representation and economic inclusion of all Stellenbosch communities and the development of social integration and cohesion.
A significant component of our travel with purpose strategy is supporting local blackowned tourism enterprises, to bring about economic inclusion and to create products that can offer visitors authentic and culturally unique experiences We aim to help tourism entrepreneurs become ‘market ready’ and, secondly, help them gain access to the tourism market through promotion. To bring about economic empowerment, these enterprises need to be well structured, formalised and included in the larger tourism product offering in Stellenbosch
Township and Village was established as a social enterprise in 2018, with self-sustainability as a central goal The social enterprise is based on an economic stimulus model that promotes the financial growth and self-reliance of marginalised entrepreneurs in the tourism sector.
Visit Stellenbosch entered into a formal partnership with Township and Village in 2019 and the social enterprise is our flagship tourism enterprise development project. We support the development of the social enterprise strategically through tourism intelligence, product development, funding and marketing support.
Township and Village
T: +27 83 289 0818
W: www townshipandvillage co za
GIVE RESPONSIBLY
We encourage giving responsibly when in Stellenbosch. Instead of handing cash to a destitute person, give a coupon that can be exchanged for a night in a shelter or a plate of food Coupons can be purchased at any one of Stellenbosch’s participating outlets, including the Visit Stellenbosch Information centre.
For more information visit giveresponsibly.visitstellenbosch.org.
WELCOME TO STELLENBOSCH - TIPS TO BE STREET SAVVY
Stellenbosch is a vibrant university town in the cosmopolitan Western Cape. As such, we would advise travellers to exercise the same level of vigilance they would when visiting any other city in the world.
This includes following basic safety tips and being street savvy to enjoy Stellenbosch in an enjoyable and stress-free way. Download your very own Street Savvy Safety Tips Card here.
Street-side parking is payable Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm and 8am to 2pm on Saturdays Parking is payable by card or Apple Pay to a uniformed, official Parking Attendant with a card machine Street-side parking in Stellenbosch is free after 5pm weekdays after 2pm on Saturdays and free on Sundays and public holidays
Should you encounter individuals charging for parking outside of operational hours or wanting to assist with payment via ATM, decline and walk away.
After-hours or informal Car Guards are usually self-employed and work on tips Tipping is completely voluntary and at your discretion.
STAY AND PLAY IN STELLENBOSCH
Stay and Play in Stellenbosch – the perfect choice for a fun-filled leisure holiday We’ll help you plan an unforgettable visit to Stellenbosch. Whether you’re flying down for one of our popular events, visiting with the family in town or simply looking for the best outdoors or wining and dining destination, the warmth and generosity of Stellenbosch keeps visitors coming back again and again.
We know how to live life to it's absolute fullest – wh outdoors and adventure, culture, family fun, rom wellness. We want to share the secrets we are Stellenbosch locals, generously with other.
WINE
Wine down in Stellenbosch, the country’s oldest and largest wine route The Stellenbosch Wine Routes is one of the biggest attractions in the country and for good reason.
As South Africa’s leading wine destination, Stellenbosch is home to hundreds of farms producing wines of origin Stellenbosch. Discover and explore the many wine farms and estates where both connoisseurs and novice wine drinkers can enjoy award-winning wines and savour the beauty of the iconic Cape Winelands.
Our diversity of wine offerings pairs perfectly with some of the country’s finest restaurants and cafes. You'll find tasting rooms with a view and distilleries, many of which offer remarkable architecture and design experiences along the side, on our wine route that offer one-of-a-kind pairing experiences.
Food enthusiasts are spoilt for choice with Stellenbosch’s experiences. There is something to please every palate, from discerning diners to those looking for farm-to-table market fare, to award-winning fine-dining restaurants or relaxed, family-friendly picnic spots.
You could choose one of our incredible wine-pairing options, indulge in our café culture or get to know our vibrant community with one of the incredible Eat With Locals experiences
Enjoy gin pairings, chocolate and brandy tastings, sample our fantastic vegan and vegetarian menus, and pop in at any one of our eclectic mix of cafes, trendy markets, breweries, wine bars and bistros in our leafy streets. Our coffee shops are equipped for the remote worker with great coffee and Wi-Fi too
FOOD OUTDOOR
Beautiful landscapes and natural beauty surround Stellenbosch, creating the perfect outdoor playground for you to enjoy. Golf fanatics can get their game on at De Zalze, Stellenbosch Golf Club, The Hazendal Golf Course and Devonvale Golf and Wine Estate
Activities for nature lovers exist in abundance at The Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, just outside of Stellenbosch. This natural oasis is a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers and off-roaders. You can even spot a variety of wildlife at the reserve that includes leopards, honey badgers and mongoose.
Hop on a bike to explore Stellenbosch town, glide on a Segway through the vineyards or embark on a wine drive safari on a wine estate, and don’t leave without a visit to the Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the town.
Stellenbosch is vibrant and colourful, filled with art around almost every corner. Marvel at more than 40 art, music and culture experiences in the town itself which include art galleries, sculpture walks, musical affairs and architecture discoveries.
Strolling through Stellenbosch, visitors will discover a vibrant ‘natural art experience’. Sculptures are strategically placed within the historic town centre, on sidewalks and squares between Dorp and Victoria, Drostdy and Market Street - also known as the ‘Arts Quarter’.
The numerous art galleries offer a unique insight into the history of South African art. Stellenbosch is also home to some of the best-preserved Cape Dutch buildings in the Western Cape, many of which are open to the public for viewing.
ART CULTURE
Stellenbosch is a cultural centre abuzz with vibrant corners. Immerse yourself in a Stellenbosch Township and Village tour and browse the town's centre, lined with numerous art galleries, boutiques, museums and artworks on display. Just in front of the town hall, at Nelson Mandela Memorial Square, is an awe-inspiring public art tribute to Madiba.
You’ll even find some quirky hidden gems on your exploration of the town Oom Samie se Winkel (Uncle Sammy’s shop) on Dorp Street is just that - a Victorian-styled store that boasts a variety of rare items
If you're looking for a multi-sensory experience, pair your wine with some live entertainment and art exhibitions at our stunning wine estates or get your dose of culture with a High Tea and traditional South African braai.
Stellenbosch is the perfect place for a fun family adventure. Don’t think you need to leave the kids at home when visiting the wine country! With a host of family-friendly wine farms, offering bespoke kiddies’ activities and child-friendly gastronomic, wildlife, museum and outdoor fun-in-the-sun experiences, the whole family can play in Stellenbosch.
There is a depth of experiences to keep young and old occupied in and around town This ‘forever young’ town spins a merry playground of activities that f b d d i it d faded jungle gyms
FAMILY WELLNESS
Stellenbosch offers visitors the opportunity to explore thi a blast whilst doing so.
Pop the cork on a soul-restoring wellness weekend or week tranquil oases in the Winelands for soothing treatments against the backdrop of the vineyards and epic mountains for which Stellenbosch is so famous.
Stellenbosch is the perfect place to do as much or as little as you please. For a little stress-relief, numerous spas offer massages and relaxing spa experiences, often set on award winning estates boasting the most stunning scenery Treat mind, body and soul in Stellenbosch, resetting, rebooting and recharging in the most beautiful surroundings. Whatever wellness means to you, you’ll find it in our warmhearted town
ROMANCE
Nothing spells romance quite like the swoon worthy array of experiences in Stellenbosch. We have idyllic picnic spots, endless lake, vineyard and mountain views, world acclaimed restaurants to wine and dine, romantic accommodation, spa treatments, hikes and walks and bike rides and much more.
Every couple will be able to find their perfect experience match in Stellenbosch.
LUXURY
Discover the beautiful art, design and luxury stays of Stellenbosch s oak-lined streets for a stylish sojourn on your own or with loved ones. Of course, a glass of bubbly is a fitting reward for a day of feeding your soul in beautiful surrounds, then retreat to one of the area’s beautiful villas and toast to the perfect day.
Revel in the lap of luxury as you pull on a cosy bathrobe, sip on a generous glass of red, and take in the majestic views of Stellenbosch’s sweeping landscape. Stellenbosch luxury stays promise rest, relaxation, and pampering beyond compare With five-star hotels, restaurants and a host of high-end experiences, discerning travellers will leave wowed.
STELLENBOSCH TOUR OPERATORS
To discover our outdoors, culture, art, food and wine offerings with ease, book a tour with one of our proudly local tour operators and shuttle services, offering safe transport to wine farms and other attractions in the area.
TRANSFER & SHUTTLE SERVICES
Going from point A to point B should be easy and convenient. Here is a list of services for any of your travel needs.
Adventureshop Stellenbosch
T: +27 21 882 8112
W: www.adventureshop.co.za
Afrivista Tours
T: +27 83 962 3290
BaileyZA Exclusive Tours & Travels
T: +27 83 403 7325
W: www baileyzatours co za
Calvyn’s Tours
T: +27 84 290 0460
Colin Bridger Tours
T: +27 82 552 0921
Freelance Shuttles Stellenbosch
T: +27 73 923 5488
La Rochelle Tours
T: +27 833 016 774
W: www.larochelletours.com
Leo Transport Service
T: +27 84 282 9292
Lit Charter Tours
T: +27 76 211 5828
Oswald Charters and Tours
T: +27 63 368 5232
Silvertree Tours
T: +27 72 090 7488
W: www.silvertreetours.co.za
Williams Passenger Services
T: +27 84 499 7751
Winelands Guide
T: +27 73 191 6962
W: www winelandsguide com
WINE TOURS
Adventureshop Stellenbosch
Come and explore best preserved historic town in South Africa is in the middle of the Winelands with its fantastic vistas, food and wine on one of their many Stellenbosch Tours Tours on offer include Vinehopper, 4×4 Wine Experience and so much more
T: +27 21 882 8112, W: www adventureshop co za
Afrivista Tours
Afrivista is a tour company based in Stellenbosch offering a day wine tour with a difference Full, half and three-quarter day tours available. Explore the historic town, enjoy a private cellar tour and taste some of the top wines in Stellenbosch.
T: +27 839 623 290, W: www.afrivista.com
BaileyZA Exclusive Tours & Travels
Visit the historic towns and farms that make up our Cape Winelands region with the professional and knowledgeable team of BaileyZA Tours Taste and enjoy top-class award-winning wines
T: +27 83 403 7325, W: www baileyzatours co za
Calvyn’s Tours
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city to the tranquility and grandeur of the Cape Winelands with its acres of vineyards, shady oaks and spectacular mountain drops Drive through the historical part of Stellenbosch including the university campus and taste world-class wine.
T: +27 84 290 0460
Cape Adventure Brands | Bikes ‘n Wines
Bikes ‘n Wines runs guided bicycle wine tours where you can explore the Cape’s Winelands. Gather your family and friends and enjoy some of the finest local wine tastings and food pairings the Western Cape Winelands has to offer. All while pedaling through exclusive and picturesque wine estates Whether you’re partial to a gentle morning cruise or want to get your heart pumping on a mountain bike adventure tour, there is something to suit everyone
T: +27 74 186 0418, W: www bikesnwines com
Colin Bridger Tours
Colin Bridger brings 40 years of South African wine industry knowledge into every tour. A tour with Colin is friendly, fun, and a never-to-be-forgotten experience in the heart of the Winelands. Colin offers 5 different tours where you can choose the area, the varietal, and cuisine specialties.
T: +27 82 552 0921, W: www.colinbridger.co.za
La Rochelle Tours
La Rochelle Tours offers specialised Wine and Gourmet Tours. From customised full and half-day wine tours, private tours, chauffeur services and culinary delight tours, taste the best that Stellenbosch has to offer
T: +27 833 016 774, W: www larochelletours com
WINE TOURS
My Wine Tour
Join our small group tours that take you on a journey through Terroir, Cultivation, and Production. Our focus on authenticity, quality, and expert knowledge sharing ensures that both wine enthusiasts and novices alike will have an unforgettable experience. Let us exceed your expectations and show you what the wine world has to offer
T: +27 71 445 4071 W: www mywinetour co za
Oswald Charter & Tours
Discover the Stellenbosch Wine Routes with experienced tour guides Book one of their exciting wine tours or leave the planning up to the team to put together a bespoke day out according to your specific needs and likes. They offer wine tasting tours, wine and e-Bike adventures, township tours including private home lunches and cultural interactions, 24-hour transfers from/to airports, cities and even the garden route, Cape Point, Cape Peninsula and game reserve tours. Your perfect holiday in Africa.
T: +27 63 368 5232, W: www.oswaldtours.co.za
Winelands
Art: Sips and Sights Tour
This day tour gives you the opportunity to explore a few of the scenic wine farms around Stellenbosch, taste extraordinary wines and discover firsthand the best spots for a day of culture and beauty This includes art collections in art galleries, museums, sculpture gardens and art studios, with the opportunity to meet some of the artists face to face A relaxing lunch with spectacular views is included, as well as arrival coffee wine tastings, safe transport and informed art curators
T: +27 83 227 7501, W: www.sipsandsights.co.za
Wine Tours in Stellenbosch
Explore the best that Stellenbosch has to offer with some of the best guides. Chooses between a half day or a full day wine tour or customise your own tour with the private full day package.
T: +27 828 880 364, W: www.winetoursinstellenbosch.co.za
Winelands Guide
Come and experience the very best of what Cape Town and the Winelands has to offer! Guided tours with a knowledgeable local guide which can be fully customisable Other services include airport shuttle, dinner transfers, and chauffeur drives
T: +27 73 191 6962, W: www winelandsguide com
Wine Taxi
Step into a realm of sensory delights as you embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating vineyards of Stellenbosch with Wine Taxi. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Stellenbosch's landscapes, our premier wine tour company invites you to experience the magic of South African winemaking like never before. Join us for a day of discovery, where each glass uncorks a new dimension of flavour, and each vineyard reveals its unique story. Let Wine Taxi be your guide to an unforgettable wine journey in Stellenbosch
T: +27 082 320 4305, W: ww winetaxi co za
GUIDED WALKING AND BIKING TOURS
Cape Adventure Brands | Bikes ‘n Wines
Bikes ‘n Wines runs guided bicycle wine tours where you can explore the Cape’s Winelands Gather your family and friends and enjoy some of the finest local wine tastings and food pairings the Western Cape Winelands has to offer All while pedaling through exclusive and picturesque wine estates. Whether you’re partial to a gentle morning cruise or want to get your heart pumping on a mountain bike adventure tour, there is something to suit everyone.
T: +27 74 186 0418, W: www.bikesnwines.com
Bites and Sites Food Tours
Join the red apron! Guided walking tours that connect you to the heart and soul of Stellenbosch food Small group, half-day tours
Explore the town centre with your insider guide Sample authentic Cape flavours Visit trendy artisans for various tastings. Discover African hospitality and the creativity of township life in “sweet home” Kayamandi.
T: +27 72 989 3438, W: www.bitesandsites.co.za
Casa Cerveza | Mountain Bike Tours
With so many places to see in and around Stellenbosch, why not enjoy them while taking a guided tour on your mountain bike with guides from the local community in Kayamandi? Experience something unique on all of our tours and see the beauty that is Stellenbosch, whether you want to see the town, or take a trip through the surrounding mountains.
T: +27 21 0230 346, W: www.casacerveza.co.za
Pniël Cultural and Environmental Hiking Tours
Break away from the usual wine tasting and discover or explore the beauty of a small missionary town Pniël, close to Stellenbosch with an unforgettable scenic moderate hike in the mountains of the Dwarsriver valley
T: +27 84 428 4620, W: www.pnielhikingtours.co.za
Stellenbosch on Foot
Join Stellenbosch on Foot and explore the “village of the oaks” with its shady oak avenues bordered by the water furrows of the Mill Stream Admire the charm and harmony of the Cape Dutch Architecture and listen to tales about the colorful inhabitants of three centuries.
T: +27 84 479 7262, W: www.stellenboschonfoot.co.za
Township and Village
Township and Village is a community-wide tourism initiative that welcomes visitors into the hearts and homes of the culture-rich communities surrounding the beautiful winelands town of Stellenbosch Explore, learn and participate in the vibrant day-to-day life of South Africans, through the eyes of resident tour guides and local community members
T: +27 83 289 0818, W: www.townshipandvillage.co.za
Dwarsrivier Adventures
Bike or hike through Dwarsrivier Valley, enjoying vineyard scapes and wine tastings at various estates to experience the region's stunning beauty and flavours
T: +27 61 241 2648, W: www dwarsriviertourism org za
ACCOMMODATION
Few towns have such an eclectic mix of accommodation to suit any budget and type of traveller. From the historic Cape Dutch-, Edwardian- and Victorian-styled villas along oak-lined streets and peaceful, leafy suburbs, to the oldest guesthouse in South Africa and state-of-the-art, 5-star accommodation – Stellenbosch has it all!
Absorb the beauty of nature in a scenic mountain chalet, a luxury guesthouse set snugly in a verdant valley, or a manor house nestled amidst sweeping vineyards.
Several accommodations are situated in the historic centre, or within walking distance of the town and its myriad attractions, while others form part of the scenically splendid Winelands landscape
For more ideas and itinerary inspiration, go to
VISIT STELLENBOSCH / PLAN YOUR VISIT
Apartments
Villas and Manor Houses
Guest Houses and B&Bs Hotels
Wine Farm Stays
