Stellenbosch And Wine Tasting

OVERVIEW

Uncover the enthralling history, architecture and flavors of the town of Stellenbosch and its surrounding valley during an introductory tour with free time to explore followed by a wine tasting. Relax during a leisurely drive to the Stellenbosch Valley, a broad, fertile dale on the Eerste River named after its founder, Governor Simon van der Stel, who discovered it in 1680. You’ll learn that today Stellenbosch is a major university town characterized by typical Afrikaner Cape Dutch architecture and streets lined with ancient oak trees, some of which have been declared National Monuments. Enjoy an orientation drive through Stellenbosch followed by approximately one hour at your leisure to explore the town independently and browse a wide selection of curio shops. You might visit the Stellenbosch Museum, which is comprised of four restored houses depicting different eras, the 1709 Schreuder House, the 1788 Bletterman House, the early-19th-century Grosvenor House and the 1850 O.M. Bergh House. Continue to one of the area’s acclaimed wine estates, where you’ll learn about the well-honed skills employed in the cellar and be invited to participate in a tasting. Raise your glass to the superb Stellenbosch Valley, a bountiful paradise steeped in South Africa’s Dutch history. Highlights .

HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel to the verdant Stellenbosch Valley, a bucolic land of traditional Cape Dutch architecture and expansive vineyards.
• Soak up the charm of the town of Stellenbosch during an orientation drive through the historic center.
• Wonder at the town’s centuries-old oak trees, some protected as National Monuments.
• Revel in time on your own to shop or tour the restored 18th- and 19th-century homes of the Stellenbosch Museum.
• Sample the region’s vintages at one of the valley’s esteemed wineries.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.