The 30 Best Things To Do in Stellenbosch

South Africa’s second-oldest town is synonymous with wine, and certainly has a wealth of wineries well worth a visit. However, there’s so much more to the City of Oaks. Rich in history and culture, and surrounded by majestic mountains and nature reserves, it offers must-try experiences whatever your interests or age.

The bon vivants among us will feel like they’ve died and gone to gourmand heaven, with a smorgasbord of eating, drinking and living it up to be done. Outdoor adventurers will be stoked with the extensive network of mountain and vineyard trails just waiting to be explored, while kids can join in the fun at play parks and pump tracks.

Wineries in Stellenbosch
Outdoor activities in Stellenbosch
Art, culture + foodie experiences in Stellenbosch
Kids activities in Stellenbosch

Wineries in Stellenbosch

Segway, sip and see art

Spier is the archetypal wine farm, with Cape Dutch buildings, gorgeous gardens and a pretty river running through it. The focus here is on ethical regenerative farming and creativity – Spier has one of the largest collections of contemporary art in SA, including 31 outdoor sculptures and a Mosaic Kraal. There is a lot on offer, from visiting a bird-of-prey sanctuary and browsing the craft market to wine-tastings or picnics beside the dam. Explore the farm with four themed self-guided walks or ride a Segway through the vineyards (suitable for anyone 10 years or older). Younger kids will love the Elemental Garden and grape-juice tastings.
Good to know Look out for the Bubbles & Braai pop-ups (showcasing Farmer Angus’s meat) on weekends, and Friday night wine-pairing dinners in the Manor House.
Times Sunday – Wednesday, 9am – 7.30pm; Thursday – Saturday, 9am – 6pm
Cost Wine-tasting: R70 – R100; chocolate pairing: R80; children’s tasting: R40
Segway tours: R420 (1 hour); R650 (2 hours, with wine-tasting)
Sunset Segway tours: R520 (1 hour); R750 (2 hours); both include a bottle of wine for two to share
Contact 021 809 1100, info@spier.co.za
Where to find it Spier Wine Estate, R310 (Baden Powell Drive), Stellenbosch
Book a Segway Tour

Taste wines – and hit the trails

Muratie (founded in 1685) captures the very essence of the Cape’s history in its every nook and cranny. Wine-tasting takes place in the cobwebbed Tasting Room (complete with old paintings and stained glass) or amid the cellar’s weathered wine tanks. Everything from the buildings to the artefacts and trees are relics of a bygone age, and the winemaking remains old-school, too.
The Knorhoek Valley farm is also well-known for its mountain-bike, hiking and running trails. These connect with the Simonsberg Trail network, giving access to up to 35km of singletrack heaven through forest and mountain slopes. Hikers have their own circular 3.5km hiking route (with steps) taking in the viewpoint at Gillooly’s – look out for the popular sunset/full moon hikes that happen once a month.
Good to know The Farm Kitchen is open Wednesday to Sunday for breakfast and lunch, and the original farmhouse is home to Mok, an art gallery that hosts three rooms of regularly changing exhibits by contemporary local artists
Cost Wine-tasting: R60 (Classic Tasting); R95 (Premium Tasting); R150 (Flagship Tasting); R85 (Chocolate Pairing Experience)
Trail permit: R60
Times Monday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Contact 021 865 2330, info@muratie.co.za
Where to find it Muratie Wine Estate, Knorhoek Road (off the R44), Stellenbosch
Enquire Now

Experience superb dining, art and gardens

Situated on the panoramic Helshoogte Pass, Delaire Graff (owned by international jeweller Laurence Graff) is the ultimate package, offering incredible views of the Banhoek Valley, sophisticated interiors and superb dining. There are five tastings on offer in the chic, art-filled Wine Lounge, with various cheese and charcuterie platters. Or simply settle in for relaxed sundowners on the oak-shaded terrace with a glass or bottle of wine and a platter.
Visitors also flock here for the culinary magic – modern, seasonal bistro dishes with a local twist at Delaire Graff Restaurant or Afro-Asian fusion fine-dining at Indochine (for gourmands, both offer special chef’s signature tasting menus too).
The gardens (filled with water features and indigenous flora) are a living canvas, with landscaping by Keith Kirsten and sculptures by Lionel Smit, Dylan Lewis and Anton Smit. In fact, the whole estate serves as an art gallery, with more than 400 works from Laurence Graff’s private collection on display.
Good to know There’s a wonderful day spa for that extra spoil, and three designer boutiques (pick up some of the estate’s artisan chocolate, honey and olive oils).
Times Wine Lounge: Monday – Saturday, 10am – 8pm; Sunday, 10am – 4.30pm
Delaire Graff Restaurant: Daily, 12pm – 2pm; 6pm – 11pm (last seating 8.30pm) Book Now
Indochine: Daily, 12pm – 2pm; 6pm – 10pm (last seating 8pm) Book Now
Gardens: Daily, 9am – 7pm
Contact 021 885 8160, reservations@delaire.co.za
Where to find it Delaire Graff Wine Estate, Helshoogte Road (R310), Stellenbosch

Enjoy a down-to-earth family day out

With its classic Cape Dutch gables and old oak trees, Blaauwklippen – one of the oldest (founded 1682) and most picturesque estates in the Winelands – makes for a wonderful day out. The famous weekend family market draws the crowds, as do the other food and wine offerings. The Classic tasting includes five wines; there are also wine pairings with macarons, chocolate and fudge, plus a tasting of three craft gins made on the estate (paired with nougat if you like). Enjoy a “country casual” meal on the panoramic terrace at the Farm Shop & Deli (in the old stables) or a picnic in the beautiful grounds. There’s also a bike park (with bike hire, guided trails and a pump track – skateboarders welcome too) and kids will love the two jungle gyms with slides, ladders, swings and a zipline.
Times Tasting Room: Daily, 10am – 6pm
The Restaurant: Wednesday – Saturday, 11am – 10pm, Sunday + Tuesday, 11am – 5pm
Bike Park: Daily, 10am – 5pm
Market: Saturday + Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Cost Wine Tasting or Gin Tasting: R95
Wine pairings: R115 – R195; gin and nougat R160
Bike park: R75
Contact 021 880 0133, info@blaauwklippen.co.za
Where to find it Off Strand Road (R44), Stellenbosch
Book through DinePlan

Fly in by helicopter

There’s simply no debate that arriving on a wine farm in a helicopter is the ultimate Winelands experience. After enjoying amazing views of the terroir on your 20-minute journey from Cape Town, settle in for a guided wine-tasting and lunch – with equally wonderful views from ground level. Afterwards, you’ll be flown back to Cape Town. There are four estates in Stellenbosch to choose from, each offering something unique, but for the real enthusiasts, there is also an option that hops between three estates in one day.
Note Wine tastings, pairings, refreshments and meals are for your own account.
Good to know There’s also the option of a one-of-a-kind fly-in picnic on a mountain-top in Jonkershoek, and half- or full-day heli-biking adventures (fly in and mountain-bike) on the Jonkershoek trails.
Times Daily, 9am – 1pm departures (depends on your chosen trip)
Duration 3.5 – 4 hours (5 hours for three-estate option)
Cost R17 000 per person
Three-estate option: R24 500 per person
Picnic Experience: R19 900 per person (includes food and drinks)
Heli-biking: R9 000 – R15 000 (depends on duration and number of riders and trails)
Where to find it V&A Helipad, 220 East Pier Road, Waterfront, Cape Town
Enquire Now

Bike between wine farms

Experience the country’s second-oldest town in the fresh air and on two wheels, passing historical buildings before heading through the forests of the magnificent Jonkershoek Valley. The 2.5-hour guided e-bike tour takes in Lanzerac and Rustenberg estates; the half-day (3.5-hour) tour also includes Stark-Condé. Booking is essential.
Good to know You can also rent a bike to explore on your own, using the app provided. There are four sizes of bikes to suit everyone.
Times Daily, 9am + 1.30pm
Cost R750 (adult, 2.5 hours); R990 (adult, 3.5 hours)
Half-wheeler: R350 (children 6 – 9 years)
Bike seat: R150 (children 3 – 5 years)
Self-guided rental: from R220 (half-day), R320 (full day)
Where to find it Vinebikes Trail Centre, Lanzerac Wine Estate, 1 Lanzerac Road (off Jonkershoek Road), Stellenbosch
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Book a customised wine-tasting tour

For a memorable Winelands experience, enjoy an itinerary that features wine-tastings at four estates (a broad spectrum from iconic to small, family-run wineries), a cellar and vineyard tour, a hearty and traditional South African lunch, plus return transport in a luxury air-conditioned minibus to the Winelands from Cape Town city centre. Locally produced cheeses, artisanal chocolates and a selection of cured meats will accompany a variety of vino styles (white and red, cap classiques and dessert wines).
Good to know Your group tour will have a maximum of 13 guests and no children under 16 years old.
Times Daily, 8am – 5.30pm
Duration 9.5 hours
Cost R1 295 per person
Where to find it Pre-arranged pick-up from wherever you are staying in Cape Town.
Book Now

Outdoor activities in Stellenbosch

Try out surfing

Surfing in Stellenbosch? Yes! Known as efoiling, these electric-motorised surfboards skim over the water without the need for waves or wind. The Fliteboard is an award-winning ecofriendly watersport option, with minimal noise and emission-free. You’ll be supplied with a wetsuit, helmet, lifejacket and Fliteboard (which comes with a remote control you hold in your hand), and be shown the ropes by expert instructors. And then you can head out on the lake at Devonbosch, free to zip and zoom and “fly” and carve the water to your heart’s content.
Good to know Each session takes up to four people, with two instructors on hand. No children 10 years old or younger.
Times Daily, 9am – 3.30pm
Duration 1.5 hours
Cost R1 500 per person
Where to find it Devonbosch Development, Bottelary Road, Stellenbosch
Book Now

Go ballooning over the winelands

There’s no better way to start a day in the Winelands than with a bird’s-eye view over the vineyards and mountains, as the rising sun changes the colours of the landscape. Watch the balloon inflate while you enjoy a cup of coffee, then clamber aboard to drift like a cloud for an hour… Where you land depends on the wind. Afterwards, you’ll celebrate with a glass of bubbly and be transported back for breakfast at Joostenberg Bistro.
Good to know Children need to be at least 1.2m tall (to see over the basket) and not younger than 10 years old. The maximum weight per person is 130kg.
Times Daily, sunrise
Cost R3 400 per person (weekdays)
R3 900 per person (weekends)
Where to find it Parking lot at Klein Joostenberg, R304, Stellenbosch
Enquire Now

Get out on the trails

Launched in 2022, the game-changing Wine Lands Trails permit gives active types access to a vast network (1 300km) of off-road adventure, whether mountain-biking, trail-running or hiking. Stellenbosch – indeed, the entire Western Cape Winelands – is surrounded by beautiful mountainscapes and farmlands that can now be explored with the convenience of one permit. In Stellenbosch, the world-class trails of Banhoek, Bottelary Hills, Jonkershoek and the Helderberg await… Many start and end on wine estates, which means you can enjoy good food and wine afterwards. The permit also offers a WhatsApp Bot for route info, events, news, trail closures, reporting of emergencies and more.
Good to know Each individual local network still offers day passes. The permit also extends to trails further afield in Franschhoek, Paarl, Wellington, Grabouw and Robertson.
Cost R1 800 (adult, 19 – 64 years; valid one year)
R1 400 (student + senior; valid one year)
Contact 076 694 2694, hello@winelandstrails.com
Bike rental Try Vinebikes (at Lanzerac Estate), Adventure Shop, Specialized Stellenbosch (at Blaauwklippen Estate), Dirtopia (at Muratie Estate), Cape Vélo, Hellsend or Ride In.
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Trek the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve

The awe-inspiring Jonkershoek Nature Reserve is as magnificent in summer (for a swim in a cool waterfall) as it is in winter, when it is particularly lush and pretty. You can explore on your own (visit CapeNature’s website, as there are daily permit limits and strict times), but we recommend going with an experienced hiking guide, considering that the reserve has around 11 000 hectares of terrain to navigate!
Our guide offers three trail options:

• Second Waterfall Trail: the least strenuous (6.4km) along a river, taking in two waterfalls (with a picnic at the second one);
• Swartboskloof to Sosyskloof: through forest, 5.3km (or 6.9km if you go to the lookout);
• Panorama Route: a full-day (17km) hike that rewards you with incredible vistas and includes the waterfalls (note: not for the weak-kneed or clumsy-footed).

Good to know The reserve entrance fee of R50 per person is not included in the cost. Lunch is an additional R250 per person (includes 2L water, a sandwich or wrap, fruit and snacks for the hike). The hikes are not suitable for children under 12 years old.
Times Daily, 7am
Cost Second Waterfall + Swartboskloof routes: R1 500
Panorama Route: R2 000
Where to find it Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Jonkershoek Road, Stellenbosch
Enquire Now

Hop on an off-road scooter

The dirt paths and slopes of Middelvlei wine estate are calling. Hop on a stable, nonmotorised scooter and experience Stellenbosch differently – downhill with the wind in your hair. This family-friendly guided adventure features SA’s only flow trail for scooters, with berms, rollers and a bush tunnel. Children 10 years and older can drive their own scooter. The experience ends with a complimentary glass of wine (or cooldrink for kids).
Good to know Stay for a meal at the Boerebraai Restaurant – real SA cuisine cooked over the coals (booking essential). Middelvlei also offers tapas-and-wine pairing, braaibroodjie-and-wine pairing, and a juice tasting for kids, plus a blend-your-own-wine experience.
Times Monday – Saturday, 8.30am – 4pm
Duration 1 hour
Cost R400 (adult); R290 (passenger: child 4 – 9 years)
Where to find it Middelvlei Wine Estate, Flamingo Street (off Distillery Road or Oude Libertas Road), Stellenbosch
Book Now

Hike in the hidden valleys

If you’ve ever driven the magnificent Helshoogte Pass east of Stellenbosch, you’ve probably felt a desire to get out of the car and into those wild, beautiful mountains. You can explore this wonderland with local hiking guide (and teacher) Uhlan Lackay, who is based in the mission station village of Pniël. He knows the routes like the back of his hand, has a passion for heritage and the environment – and loves a game of “blitz chess” on hiking breaks! There are three options, but all include mountain fynbos, verdant forests, crystal-clear streams and wilderness:

• Duiwelskloof (Banhoek): Languedoc Valley, Groot-Drakenstein mountains and a waterfall (5 hours, 12km);
• Volstruiskloof (Banhoek): including the Kylemore waterfalls and Cathedral Caves (6 hours/13km or 4 hours/10km);
• Simonsberg/Dwarsrivier Valley: including the old VOC silver mines, and a history walk around Pniël (4–5 hours, 8km).

Good to know The hikes are rated moderate, so reasonable fitness is required.
Bookings need to be made a week in advance.
Times Weekdays, by arrangement
Cost R300 – R450 (depending on hike)
R50 (additional guided tour of Pniël Museum)
Where to find it Meet at Pniël Congregational Church parking area, Helshoogte Road (R310), Stellenbosch
Enquire Now

E-bike through Banhoek

Head out of town into the glorious mountainscapes east of Stellenbosch on a guided e-bike adventure. Passing through Idas Valley and the Banhoek Conservancy (spotting wildlife), you’ll ride the scenic, iconic Helshoogte Pass. Final destination: Boschendal Wine Estate, where you can enjoy all the wine you like, as you’ll be ferried back to Stellenbosch by bus. You will need to have intermediate MTB skills and fitness, so this tour is not suited to first-time mountain-bikers.
Good to know Minimum age is 11 years old. Food and drink at Boschendal is for your own account.
Times Daily, 9am – 1pm
Cost R840 per person (minimum 2 people)
Where to find it Adventure Shop, Ou Landbousaal, 1 Noordwal-Wes Road, Stellenbosch
Book Now

Visit paradise

The pine-scented Eden Forest on the slopes of the Helderberg offers a variety of trails, but the best is an entry-level hike to the Paradyskloof Waterfall. There’s no deep pool for swimming – more like splash pools and a cascade shower – but it will still be fantastic on a hot day (tip: it’s best after it has rained). Picture letting the water splash over you as you gaze out over a fantastic view of the winelands, all the way to False Bay and Table Mountain. The 5km hike follows the Eerste River and crosses it twice at shallow points; it also leads through fields of fynbos and beautiful proteas. Best of all, you can bring your dog along for the walk.
Times Daily, 7.30am – 8pm
Cost Free
Contact 021 808 8160/8119
Where to find it Eden Forest, Paradyskloof Way, Stellenbosch

Meander through a magical garden

To escape the bustle and traffic (or a hot day), head to Stellenbosch University’s Botanical Garden, hidden in the centre of town. Under towering trees of every shape and form, you’ll find various themed gardens – including a serene Japanese garden, a bonsai garden, flower and herb gardens, cycads and greenhouses filled with tropical and arid plants. The diversity of flora is astonishing, from all around the world – thanks to it being a site actively used for research and education. There are benches, water features, stepping stones and ponds filled with big lily pads. Plus a charming tea garden amid the greenery, and a new gift shop and nursery.
Times Daily, 8am – 5pm (9am – 4pm in winter)
Cost R15 per person; R10 seniors
Contact 021 808 3054, subg@sun.ac.za
Where to find it Van Riebeeck Street (entrance opposite the Moederkerk), Stellenbosch
(Second entrance in Neethling Street)

Art, culture + foodie experiences in Stellenbosch

Admire modern South African art

The Rupert Museum is a purpose-built, world-class art museum with large galleries presenting a veritable walk-through of modern South African art, collected from 1940 to the early 2000s by the late Dr Anton Rupert and his wife Huberte. See works by Pierneef, Tinus de Jongh, Cecil Skotnes, Irma Stern and many more well-known local artists. The museum also manages corporate collections showcasing magnificent French tapestries, Italian paintings and sculptures (both indoors and out, in the riverside garden). The onsite café offers light meals, treats, coffees, teas and wine (and boasts the original “rock art” fireplace from Tretchikoff’s home).
Good to know Keep an eye out for special events, including monthly “Museum Saturdays” (which can feature live music, food tastings, workshops, etc), yoga on Thursdays and walkabouts on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Times Tuesday – Friday, 10am – 5pm
Saturday + Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Cost Free
Contact 021 888 3344, info@rupertmuseum.org
Where to find it Stellentia Road, Stellenbosch

Taste Stellenbosch

Experience both sides of the culinary coin with a guided 3.5-hour walk that seeks out hidden flavours, all while being immersed in the architecture, history, art and stories of Stellenbosch. Sample home-grown teas with spice-infused sweet treats; visit the oldest restored pioneer home in South Africa; pop in at a family-owned butchery for a taste of biltong; do a wine tasting at a popular restaurant, before ending off at the oldest hotel in the country for a heritage lunch platter. Booking 48 hours in advance is essential.
Good to know Other options include a focus on experimental food artisans and traditional Xhosa food.
Times Monday – Saturday, 10am – 1.30pm
Cost R1 450 (Classic Cape Cuisine walk with lunch)
Where to find it Stellenbosch Wine Route Office, 47 Church Street, Stellenbosch
Enquire Now

Get lost in a sculpture garden

Mulberry Farm’s majestic slopes and luscious gardens are home to over 60 stunning sculptures created by fêted local artist Dylan Lewis, exploring the theme of “the wilderness within”. In addition to his thought-provoking creations, the seven-hectare property also has a wide variety of indigenous fynbos, buchu and ericas (at its most beautiful in winter). Visits are by appointment only and private guided tours are available on request. The Old Storeroom offers teas, coffees, cakes and cooldrinks.
Times Tuesday – Saturday, 8.30am – 5pm (last entry 3.30pm)
Cost R220 (adult)
R150 (student + pensioner)
Free (children under 18 years)
R1 500 (private tour)
Contact 021 880 0054, reservations@dylanart.co.za
Where to find it Dylan Lewis Studio & Sculpture Garden, Mulberry Farm, Paradyskloof Road, Stellenbosch

Sip on barrel-aged vinegar

Vinegar-making at former wine farm Rozendal started by happy accident – a batch of wine that had turned a little too sour transformed over a decade into a marvellous balsamic-style vinegar (a Bordeaux blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon). Rozendal has since added herbal infusions to the range – fynbos, hibiscus (with elderflower and vanilla bean), green tea (with carob, chilli and kelp) and lavender. These can all be tasted in the charming vinaigrier (just like a wine cellar, lined with oak barrels). The taste will surprise you – these vinegars can be sipped neat as aperitifs, or mixed with herbal tea for a refreshing drink (apart from myriad culinary uses).
Good to know The farm eatery, Good to Gather, uses the vinegars in its delicious menu.
Times Monday – Friday, 9am – 4pm (by appointment)
Cost Free
Contact 021 809 2600, info@rozendal.co.za
Where to find it Rozendal Farm, Omega Street, Stellenbosch

Visit studios and artists

Apart from wine, cuisine and academic pursuits, Stellenbosch has become known for its vibrant art scene, with a variety of galleries and outdoor works – and a Triennale (next up in 2024). On this guided walk, you’ll visit exhibitions and artists’ studios while enjoying the history-filled streets of the City of Oaks, and discovering sculptures here, there and everywhere.
Good to know There is also a historical walking tour option.
Times Monday – Thursday, 10am + 2pm
Friday + Saturday, 10am
Cost R280 per person (minimum 2 people)
Contact 084 479 7262, info@stellenboschonfoot.co.za
Where to find it Stellenbosch on Foot, Wine Route Office, 47 Church Street, Stellenbosch
Book Now

Forage and feast at a market

The Root44 weekend market has evolved into a one-stop showcase of Stellenbosch food and wine, in glorious surroundings. The glass-brick-and-mortar foodhall houses an amazing array of stalls, with live bands, indoor and outdoor tables and lush lawns to picnic on. From tacos, corndogs and loaded mac ’n cheese to hotdogs, mussels, Gatsbys, pulled eisbein and souvlaki – plus a multitude of Asian flavours – all cravings are covered. There’s also a permanent coffee shop, restaurant, oyster and sushi bar, wine emporium offering tastings, an “art route” of mini galleries and a splash fountain that kids will love in summer.
Good to know Also check out the Dorp Street Sunday Market in the centre of town, with around 50 “pop-up” shops.
Times Friday, Saturday + Sunday, 10am – 6pm (5pm in winter); also public holidays
Contact 021 300 3935, info@root44.co.za
Where to find it Audacia Wines, corner of the R44 and Annandale Road, Stellenbosch

Kids activities in Stellenbosch

Go tree-top hopping

Channel your inner Tarzan by tree-hopping and ziplining (with the help of a guide) through the forest for uninterrupted thrills. The Acro-Twigs (yellow) course is perfect for the little ones (3 – 6 years) and includes a bungee trampoline; older kids (of all ages!) can tackle the Monkey Moves (green) course and more challenging Swinging Tarzan (blue) course. If you’re brave enough, tackle the High Flying (red) course and the Big Zip – 120 metres of whizzing through the air, 12 metres up! (A ride on the Big Zip can be added to the green and blue courses too.)
Good to know There are height restrictions on each course. The neighbouring Joostenberg Bistro offers meals and wines, and there’s a catered picnic area at Klein Joostenberg.
Times Wednesday – Sunday, 9am – 6pm (last slot 4pm)
Winter: 9am – 5pm (last slot 3pm)
Cost R160 (Acro-Twigs); R200 (Acro-Twigs + Bungee)
R200 (Monkey Moves); R250 (Monkey Moves + 1 Big Zip)
R240 (Swinging Tarzan); R290 (Swinging Tarzan + 1 Big Zip)
R300 (High Flying); R350 (High Flying + 3 Big Zips)
R65 (Acro-Twigs Bungee only)
R100 (Big Zip only)
Where to find it Klein Joostenberg, R304, Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch
Enquire Now

Visit a strawberry farm

This family-friendly farm offers the perfect day out for little ones (and big ones, too). Grab a basket and roam around the fields, picking and snacking on delicious strawberries. Afterwards, children can enjoy mini-golf and, on weekends and in the school holidays, face-painting, pedal karts and tractor and pony rides. There are also two playgrounds (for different ages), a food court and a food & wine shop.
Good to know Polkadraai Farm has a bike park (open all year) across the road, with options for kids and adults, novices and old-hands, including a pump track, skills trail and access to the Bottelary Hills MTB routes.
Times Daily, 9am – 4pm (September – January)
Cost R50 (Junior Picker)
R65 (Harvester)
Bike Park: R70
Contact 021 881 3303, info@polkadraaifarm.co.za
Where to find it Corner of Polkadraai Road (M12) and La Provence Road, Stellenbosch

Play in a virtual wonderland

Wonderdal is a one-of-a-kind, state-of-the-art edutainment centre that blends creative design, education and world-class technology in a 1 000-square-metre interactive space. Children aged 5 to 13 learn through play as they journey through a world of science, nutrition and nature. Not just a playground but an exercise in immersive fantasy, Wonderdal is designed to make children feel part of a story. As they explore, they are accompanied by the Amuki, the virtual inhabitants of Wonderdal – friendly, quirky creatures who’ll give them tips on the various activities and tasks. It’s access-controlled and supervised, so parents are free to enjoy the rest of Hazendal Wine Estate while the kids play.
Good to know Hazendal is also home to the Kleine Hazen Putting Park, with 27 holes of adventure mini-golf, a jungle gym and playground.
Times Tuesday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Cost One hour: R85 (weekdays); R140 (Friday – Sunday)
Two hours: R125 (weekdays); R190 (Friday – Sunday)
R40 (compulsory safety socks that are reusable for future visits)
Mini-golf: R60 (child 3 – 12 years); R80 (teens + adults)
Contact 021 205 5624, bookings@wonderdal.co.za
Where to find it Hazendal Wine Estate, 60 Bottelary Road (M23), Stellenbosch
Book Now

Design your own mugs, plates and more

At the Ceramic Café, kids will love decorating their own homeware (from cups and bowls to figurines and piggy banks) in their favourite colours, with their favourite things – be it fairies or aliens, butterflies or bunnies, or even their memories of visiting the Winelands (these items make great souvenirs or gifts) with a loved one’s name or a special message. The Ceramic Café has a lovely tranquil garden setting (and indoor studio), a jumping castle and a menu of light meals, cakes and treats.
Times Wednesday – Sunday + public holidays, 10am – 5pm
Cost R55 (3 paints, 2 brushes + glazing and firing
R45 – R300 (bisque items to paint)
Contact 021 300 5132, kevin@ceramiccafe.co.za
Where to find it Cape Garden Centre, Winery Road, off R44, Raithby, Stellenbosch

Ride a miniature steam train

Hop on board at Park Station, wait for the puffs of steam and whistles, then enjoy the seven-minute ride on a 760-metre stretch of track through a park that includes a bridge and a tunnel. The mini replica steam locomotives at Winelands Light Railway have all been lovingly hand-built by local enthusiasts, and truly are marvels to see up close. The seating on the wagons takes kids, adults and even dogs, so the whole family can enjoy this outing. There’s also a playground, jungle gym, obstacle course and shady lawns (with balls and games supplied) – you can pack your own picnic (no alcohol or braais), or buy snacks and treats from the kiosk.
Good to know Electric locomotives may replace the steam engines when they’re off duty. Rides are weather dependent.
Times Saturday, Sunday, public + school holidays, 9am – 5pm
Cost R60 per person (one ride)
R120 per person (unlimited rides for the day)
R480 per person (annual pass)
Contact 060 586 5490, info@winelandsrail.co.za
Where to find it Winelands Light Railway Park, R304, Koelenhof, Stellenbosch

Marvel at old-school toys

Filled with an enchanting array of displays, the Toy & Miniature Museum is a bit like visiting Santa’s workshop – in the olden days! From dinky cars and wagons to train sets; cuddly toys, teddy bears and antique dolls (including 118-year-old Gretchen) to doll houses and rocking horses; and miniature versions of familiar buildings (such as manor houses on wine estates), and even the Blue Train (pop R5 into the slot and watch it go through a mini Stellenbosch, Winelands and Karoo to a mini Matjiesfontein – sure to inspire the real-life journey!).
Good to know It’s part of the Stellenbosch Museum, which also includes the Village Museum (comprising four historic houses that will give you a sense of what it was like to live here in the 18th and 19th centuries) and a Shoe Museum.
Times Monday – Friday, 9am – 4.30pm
Saturday, 9am – 2pm
Cost R20 (adult); R10 (child 2 – 16 years)
Contact 021 887 2948, toysmuseum@stelmus.co.za
Where to find it 42 Market Street (behind the Tourism Office), Stellenbosch

Have a playdate at a carnival

Dress the kids in their favourite fairytale/superhero outfit  – they’ll fit right in at the Carnival at Weltevreden. This colourful, themed, fantasy playground for young kids has plenty of attractions – two larger-than-life jungle gyms, trampolines, sandpits, water slides (on hot days), motorbike scooters, a sweets counter, slushies and milkshakes on tap, plus a pizza workshop where they can make their own. It’s right alongside the Jonkershuis restaurant, where adults can enjoy a meal, cocktails, wine tasting or wine pairing with macarons or small plates – Weltevreden 1692 is home to Bertha Wines. Alternatively, the family can have a pizza picnic on the scenic lawns.
Good to know The Carnival area is for children younger than 9 years old.
Times Daily, 8.30am – 7pm
Cost R10 per person (Carnival entry)
R50 kids make-your-own pizza
R65 for wine tasting; R90 for macaron pairing; R200 small plates pairing
Contact 021 889 6588, info@weltevredenestate.com
Where to find it Welgevonden Boulevard, Cloetesville, Stellenbosch

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