With markets, museums, nature reserves and more wine estates than you could possibly imagine, visitors should definitely come to Stellenbosch with some extra time on their hands.
Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Stellenbosch
Why you should visit: Hikers, swimmers and mountain bikers flock to the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve. Managed by Cape Nature, the reserve sits within the Jonkershoek Valley and also incorporates the smaller Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve. Four rivers flow from the source here and there are more than 1 100 plant species, plenty of wildlife and birds. There are many marked trails, refreshing rock pools, as well as waterfalls to be explored. Visitors can book at https://booking.capenature.co.za/.
How to get there: Find the reserve on Jonkershoek Valley Road, 10km from Stellenbosch.
Duck Parade, Vergenoegd, Stellenbosch
Why you should visit: Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate offers an attraction beyond just a great wine tasting: a duck parade. The experience involves 1 200 Indian Runner ducks, which line up daily to get to work controlling snails and pests in the vineyards, to the delight of visiting bystanders. The duck parade takes place daily at 10:30, 12:30 and 15:30.
How to get there: Vergenoegd is off Baden Powell Drive in Stellenbosch.
Village Museum, Stellenbosch
Why you should visit: Travel back in time at the Village Museum in Stellenbosch, with four beautifully restored buildings and gardens depicting what homes in Stellenbosch looked like between 1709 and 1850. At each house, you’ll be welcomed by a staff member (decked out in clothing from the era), who will explain the history of that particular house and period.
How to get there: 37 Ryneveld Street, Stellenbosch.
How much does it cost: Entrance fees for adults are R50 and R20 for children.
Root 44 market
Why you should visit: Every Saturday and Sunday, Winelands dwellers and Capetonians make the drive to the Root 44 market, one of the most popular markets in the province. Come rain or shine, the market is there and offers all the food, drink, arts and crafts you could want. There is also live music in the afternoons, a kids’ area and lawn and ample parking.
How to get there: The market is situated on the corner of the R44 and Annandale Rd.
