The 21 Best Things To Do in Stellenbosch

South Africa’s second-oldest town is justifiably famous for its wine, with a wealth of farms worth visiting. 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 other must-try experiences whatever your interests or age.

The bon vivants will feel like they’re in gourmand heaven, with a smorgasbord of eating, drinking and living it up to be done. Nature adventurers will be stoked with the network of mountain and vineyard trails waiting to be explored. Art and design lovers will find plenty of aesthetically pleasing pursuits, while history buffs can time-travel in style. Plus there’s plenty of fun for the kids, too.

Here are our favourite experiences in Stellenbosch.

Segway through Spier

Glide along rows of vines, soak up the beauty of the Stellenbosch Winelands and learn all about biodynamic farming and winemaking on a Segway adventure across Spier Wine Farm. There’s a one-hour Farm tour that visits an organic vineyard block; and a two-hour Farm & Vineyard tour that goes deeper into the farmlands, taking you to visit the cattle and hens, and also includes a signature wine-tasting. Book the one-hour Evening or two-hour Sunset tour and each pair gets a bottle of Spier’s Signature white wine (or grape juice) to share after their ride at magical golden hour.
Good to know It’s a family-friendly activity, suitable for children 10 years and older. Maximum weight is 120kg. Two-hour tours require a minimum of four people.
Times Farm tour: Monday – Sunday, 9am, 10.30am, 12pm, 2pm + 3.30pm
Farm & Vineyard tour: 9am
Sunset tours: 5.30pm or 6pm (changes with the seasons; confirm online)
Cost Farm tour (1 hour): R520; R399 (9am early bird special)
Farm & Vineyard tour (2 hours): R950
Sunset tours: R680 (1 hour); R1 265 (2 hours)
Where to find it Spier Wine Farm, R310 (Baden Powell Drive), Stellenbosch
Book Now

Stroll through the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden

Tucked into a corner of the Hottentots-Holland mountains is a Japanese-inspired sculpted indigenous garden that’s home to over 60 stunning works by fêted local artist Dylan Lewis, exploring the theme of “the wilderness within”. In addition to his thought-provoking sculptures, and his former studio (now a gallery), the seven-hectare property also has a wide variety of fynbos, buchu, ericas and other beautiful flora. It’s simply a magical place to stroll through, getting a little bit wilder the further out you go. The Old Storeroom offers teas, coffees, cakes and cooldrinks.
Good to know Visits are by appointment only and private guided tours are available on request.
Times Tuesday – Saturday, 8.30am – 5pm (last entry 3.30pm)
Cost R260 (adult)
R160 (student + pensioner)
Free (children under 18 years)
From R1 700 (private tour)
Contact 021 880 0054, reservations@dylanart.co.za
Where to find it Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden, Paradyskloof Road, Stellenbosch

Treat yourself to a high tea at Lanzerac

Adorned with a dazzling chandelier and large skylights, Lanzerac’s elegant Manor Kitchen dining room is the splendid setting for the Timeless Afternoon Tea. It’s a decidedly decadent and sophisticated affair. After being welcomed with a glass of cap classique, choose from a selection of the finest loose-leaf TWG teas: one to pair with your savoury course and a second with the sweets. Think reimagined canapés prepared with seasonal ingredients, tasty croquettes, finger sandwiches, Lanzerac’s famous scones served with clotted cream, strawberry jam, lavender cream, cheddar and rich butter. Did we mention the sweets? Cupcakes, petits fours, tartlets, éclairs, macarons… You’ll want for nothing except perhaps a loose-fitting frock!
Times Saturday, 2pm – 5pm
Cost R420
R520 with unlimited cap classique
Contact 021 887 1132, restaurants@lanzerac.co.za
Where to find it Lanzerac Road, Karindal, Stellenbosch
Book through DinePlan

Shred the Simonsberg singletrack

You’ll find the Dirtopia Trail Centre on Muratie wine farm in the Knorhoek Valley. A premier hub for mountain-bikers, it offers access to 40km of purpose-built singletrack trails that weave through the forest- and fynbos-covered slopes of the Simonsberg, from the novice-friendly ABC route to the iconic “Never Say Never Ending Again” that winds up to the top of the network and drops back down on a fast, flowing descent. Dirtopia supplies permits and maps, rents out basic mountain bikes (reservations essential), stocks gear, accessories and refreshments, and organises regular social rides.
Good to know Hikers have their own circular 3.5km trail leading to the Gillooly’s viewpoint (that’s Table Mountain in the distance!). Popular sunset/full moon hikes are offered here every month (October to March); bring your own picnic, wine supplied by Muratie.
Times Saturday + Sunday, 7.30am – 1pm
Weekdays, 8am – 1pm (summer, or WhatsApp for appointment)
Cost Day permit: R100; R50 (child under 12)
Contact 078 343 3572 (WhatsApp), info@dirtopia.co.za
Where to find it Muratie Wine Estate, Knorhoek Road (off the R44), Stellenbosch

Spoil yourself with a spa day at Delaire Graff

Perched on the panoramic Helshoogte Pass, the views alone at Delaire Graff are enough to melt away stress. The estate, owned by international jeweller Laurence Graff, is the ultimate aesthetic package, offering incredible scenery, sophisticated art-filled interiors and superb wine and dining. But there’s one more attraction that deserves your attention: the gorgeous day spa. Enjoy your bespoke treatments in one of five suites (with private courtyards, hydro baths or an outdoor double shower under an oak tree). Relax in the Swedish sauna and steam room before heading out to the terrace with its heated infinity pool and jacuzzi (and views of distant Table Mountain). Book a half-day experience and you’ll also get lunch courtesy of Hōseki, the estate’s contemporary Japanese restaurant.
Times Monday – Sunday, 9am – 6pm
Cost From R1 950 (45-minute deluxe treatments)
R5 380 (half-day)
R9 720 (signature couple’s half-day)
Contact 021 885 8160, info.spa@delaire.co.za
Where to find it Helshoogte Road (R310), Stellenbosch
Enquire Now

Ebike through beautiful Banhoek

There’s an exhilarating joy to cycling through the countryside that can’t be replicated – and ebikes (which assist with pedalling) make it easy for everyone. This half-day guided ride sets off from the trailhead at Banhoek Chilli Oil Company, just off the Helshoogte Pass, and takes you along picturesque farm roads to either Tokara or Zorgvliet wine estates, and then deep into the Banhoek Valley, with the majestic Drakenstein Mountains in the background, to boutique Rainbow’s End. At both stops, you’ll have time to shop, do wine-tastings or have a coffee (on your own account) and simply soak in the magnificent views. Vinebikes’ ebikes have fat tyres, leather seats and a handy leather carrier bag on the back rack (for stowing those wine purchases).
Good to know Food and drink is for your own account. There are half-wheeler bikes for kids (5 – 9 years) and toddler seats (3 – 5 years).
Times Monday – Saturday, 9am + 1.30pm
Cost R1 300 per person (minimum 2 people)
R350 (half-wheeler or toddler seat)
Where to find it Banhoek Chilli Oil Company, Swart Street (off R310/Helshoogte Road), Kylemore, Stellenbosch
Book Now

Hike in glorious Jonkershoek

The awe-inspiring Jonkershoek Nature Reserve is magnificent whatever the season, especially for a summertime swim in river and waterfall pools. Rich in mountain scenery, fynbos and animal life, the 9 800-hectare reserve has several hiking trails to suit your ability and energy jonkerslevels. The least strenuous is the Tweede Waterval Trail (6.4km) along a river, taking in two waterfalls. The Panorama Route is the main attraction – a full-day (17km) trek that rewards you with incredible vistas and includes the waterfalls (note: it’s not for the weak-kneed or clumsy-footed). If you fancy going through glorious forest, pick the Swartboskloof to Sosyskloof route (5.3km, or 6.9km if you go to the lookout).
Good to know There are daily permit limits and strict start times (before 2pm for Tweede Waterval; before 10am for the Panorama trail). The neighbouring Assegaaibosch section has picnic and braai facilities, as well as an easy 3km walk and 5.5km hiking trail.
Times 7am – 4pm (from 8am in winter); gates close 6pm
Cost Permit: R70 (adult); R50 (child)
Contact 087 087 4118 (reserve office)
082 467 0405 (emergency)
Where to find it Jonkershoek Road, Stellenbosch

Go ballooning over the Winelands

Could there be a better way to start the day in Stellenbosch 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, at sunrise (weather permitting)
Cost R4 400 per person (weekdays)
R4 700 per person (weekends)
Where to find it Parking lot at Klein Joostenberg, R304, Stellenbosch
Enquire Now

Enjoy the Blaauwklippen Family Market

With its classic Cape Dutch gables and old oak trees, picturesque Blaauwklippen – one of the oldest (founded 1682) estates in the Winelands – makes for a wonderful day out. The famous weekend family market has been drawing the crowds for 30 years now, offering a range of artisanal foods, crafts and live music. Collect your eats, treats and drinks from the stalls and Farmhouse deli, and enjoy a picnic in the shaded seating area or on the lawns. Kids will love the two jungle gyms with slides, ladders, swings and a zipline, pedal-karts, jumping castle, pony rides and farm animals. Plus there’s a bike park on the farm (with bike hire, guided trails and a pump track – skateboarders welcome too).
Times Saturday + Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Cost Free entry
Bike park: R100 for 2 hours
Contact 021 880 0133, info@blaauwklippen.co.za
Where to find it Off Strand Road (R44), Stellenbosch

See 20th-century SA art at the Rupert Museum

The Rupert Museum is a purpose-built, world-class art museum with large galleries presenting a veritable walk-through of 20th-century 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 esteemed local artists. The museum also showcases collections of magnificent French tapestries, Italian paintings and sculptures (both indoors and out, in the riverside garden). The onsite café offers light meals, sweet 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 free 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

See it all on a scenic flight

Get some perspective by taking off in a small plane and soaring over the mountains, vineyards and farms of Stellenbosch and neighbouring Franschhoek, as well as the False Bay coastline. Ocean Guard Africa is the only operator of commercial flights in Stellenbosch, and its sightseeing trips help fund ocean conservation. The twin-engine maritime patrol aircraft is specifically designed for stable, low-altitude flights, with large windows for wildlife viewing (whales in particular). This VIP experience includes access to the luxury Sky Lounge at the airfield, and you can book a custom trip for two including drinks and snacks.
Good to know Other flights head down the coast, past Betty’s Bay to Walker Bay, for whale-watching in season. You can also join a whale survey flight with the MRI Whale Unit.
Times Monday – Sunday, 10am + 3pm
Cost R3 970 per person (30-minute flight)
Where to find it Hangar 25, Stellenbosch Aerodrome, R44 (Strand Road), Stellenbosch
Book Now

Book a game drive on Villiera

Villiera is famed for its fine cap classique, but it’s also home to a 230-hectare wildlife sanctuary (a project undertaken with two neighbouring farms). With more than 100 000 indigenous trees planted, 12 dams (so plenty of waterbirds) and animals such as wildebeest, giraffes, zebras, springboks and other antelope, it’s a wonderful first taste of safari life. The game drives allow children (which is not always the case) and last about two hours. For adults, the experience includes a complimentary tasting on the oak-shaded terrace at The Wine Sanctuary (there are still wines too).
Good to know Book separately for a cap classique and artisanal nougat pairing. Cheese and charcuterie and snack platters are also available.
Times Monday – Saturday, 10am and 2pm
Cost R370 (adult)
R180 (child under 15 years); free (child under 2 years)
Contact 021 865 2002, wine@villiera.com
Where to find it Corner of R304 and Old Paarl Road (R101), Koelenhof, Stellenbosch
Enquire Now

Hop on, hop off the Wine Tractor

Franschhoek has its Wine Tram, Stellenbosch has a Wine Tractor, which transports visitors to multiple wine farms (from historic and grand estates to boutique wineries) along specific routes. The wine-tasting adventure in the renowned ‘Golden Triangle’ region on the slopes of the Helderberg includes Eikendal, Longridge, Peter Falke, Avontuur, Webersburg, Annandale and Alto, among others. It’s a relaxed and chilled experience, journeying in a trailer – with comfy seating under a shady canopy – along back roads and through vineyards… Even if you don’t drink wine (there are non-alcoholic tastings and pairings available on some of the farms), it’s a wonderful family-friendly way to experience the Winelands.
Good to know You can pre-order freshly baked cupcakes to have with your welcome taster, or a picnic at Webersberg for an additional fee. Wine-tastings, meals and other activities at farms are for your own account (pre-booking advised).
Times Tuesday – Sunday, 9.30am – 6pm
Cost R330 (including a welcome taster)
Where to find it Ticket office: Root44 Market, corner of Annandale Road and R44, Stellenbosch
Book Now

Take to the trees at Joostenberg

Channel your inner jungle bunny by tree-hopping, clambering, swinging and ziplining through a thrilling forest adventure course. The Acro-Twigs (yellow) course is perfect for the little ones (3 – 6 years) and includes a bungee trampoline; older kids and adults 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! Guides are on hand to help, and there are height restrictions on each course.
Good to know Afterwards, enjoy a picnic on the lawns at the Klein Joostenberg Bistro, where you can build your own basket from the menu at the counter in the garden.
Times September – April: Wednesday – Sunday, 9am – 6pm (last slot 4pm)
May – August: Wednesday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm (last slot 3pm)
Cost Acro-Twigs: R170; R210 (with Bungee); R70 (Bungee only)
Monkey Moves: R210; R260 (with Big Zip)
Swinging Tarzan: R250; R300 (with Big Zip)
High Flying: R310; R360 (with 3 Big Zips)
Big Zip only: R110 (3 rides per person)
Climbing gloves: R25 (compulsory from 7 years up)
Where to find it Klein Joostenberg, R304, Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch
Enquire Now

Ride an off-road scooter

The dirt paths and slopes of the beautiful Banhoek valley are calling… At Banhoek Chilli Oil Company, hop on a stable, nonmotorised, Monster Mountain scooter and experience Stellenbosch differently – whizzing downhill with the wind in your hair, amid vineyards, fynbos and chilli plantations and over wooden bridges. Think of it as mountain-biking without the pedalling! The 1.5-hour experience is great for families, as kids over 10 years old can drive their own scooter, while children aged 4 – 9 years old can ride as passengers.
Good to know Afterwards, pop in at the deli, grab a bite at the restaurant, a cocktail at the Leopard Lounge, or do a tasting of chilli oil or wine.
Times Monday – Saturday, 8am – 3.30pm
Cost R640
R250 (passenger)
Ask about discounted teambuilding and kids party options.
Where to find it Banhoek Chilli Oil Company, Swart Street (off R310/Helshoogte Road), Kylemore, Stellenbosch
Book Now

Decorate your own Wonki Ware pottery

It’s iconic and unique – Wonki Ware is South Africa’s ‘perfectly imperfect’, world-famous tableware (loved by Jamie Oliver and Nigella Lawson, among others). From its home on the Garden Route, the company has opened The Pottery cafés where the public can paint their own bisqueware. The newest one, in Stellenbosch, offers a creative and social space to let your imagination run wild. Simply choose your item(s) – from plates and bowls to jugs and ramekins – take a seat at a table, order some food and beverages, and get painting. The delicious menu includes smoothie bowls, tacos, toasties, burgers, pizzas and waffles, plus cocktails, mocktails, wine and prosecco. It’s perfect for all ages, no experience needed, and your artwork makes a great gift or souvenir of your visit to the Winelands.
Good to know You can also watch artisans making Wonki Ware, glazing and firing it in the on-site kilns.
Times Wednesday – Saturday, 9am – 9pm
Sunday – Tuesday, 9am – 5pm
Cost R125 – R600 (depending on item you choose)
Contact 072 028 0763, stellenbosch@thepottery.co.za
Where to find it 2 Ryneveld Street, Stellenbosch
Enquire Now

Do a safari-style vineyard tour at Jordan

Secluded at the end of a winding road, picturesque Jordan Wine Estate is rich with birdlife and glorious views. The vineyards straddle two valleys and are planted at differing altitudes (160 to 410 metres above sea level), facing all four directions and close to the ocean… with soils and microclimates that make for a unique terroir. The 360° Tasting Experience is the best way to appreciate it all: a two-hour safari-style vineyard tour in a Land Rover, with views of both False Bay and Table Bay, while you taste a selection of Jordan’s world-class sustainable wines. It ends with a cellar tour and an additional tasting, either in the barrel cellar or out on the terrace.
Good to know There is also the option of a private sunset wine drive.
Times Monday – Sunday, 10am or 2pm
Cost R656
Contact 021 881 3441, reservations@jordanwines.com
Where to find it Stellenbosch Kloof Road, Vlottenberg, Stellenbosch
Book through DinePlan

Tuck into a stylish picnic at Cavalli

Set among tranquil fynbos-filled gardens, with glorious vineyard and mountain views, the lawns at Cavalli (a 100-hectare wine and equestrian estate) are the perfect setting for an elegant picnic, complete with a small table, comfortable chairs, a blanket, an umbrella and a wicker hamper. There are only eight baskets (for two) to be booked each day, so it’s guaranteed to be peaceful and relaxed as you dip into the deliciously gourmet treats: think sesame and ginger chicken sosaties, trout pâté with lavash, quiche, seedloaf and cheese, spiced nuts, plus Basque cheesecake and lemon madeleines to finish. There is a vegetarian alternative.
Good to know Baskets to be booked 24 hours in advance. Picnics are available until the Easter weekend. Arrive early for a wine-tasting on the terrace to find the perfect match for your picnic.
Times Wednesday – Sunday, 12pm – 4pm
Cost R795 for two
Wines from R150 a bottle
Wine-tasting: R100 (3 wines), R175 (6 wines)
Contact 021 855 3218, office@cavalliestate.com
Where to find it R44 (Strand Road), between Stellenbosch and Somerset West
Enquire Now

Take a guided bicycle tour through town

Experience the country’s second-oldest town in the fresh air, under leafy trees and on two wheels, passing picturesque historical buildings before heading through the forests of the magnificent Jonkershoek Valley. This half-day guided bicycle tour also takes in two wine estates: Stark-Condé (with its iconic “island-in-a-lake” tasting area) and historic Lanzerac, where you’ll enjoy a cellar tour and wine-and-chocolate pairing (iced tea and chocs for children), before heading back to town via the university campus. There is a choice of mountain bikes or ebikes, plus a half-bike, buggy or child seat for the younger ones.
Good to know Additional food, drink and wine purchases are for your own account.
Times Monday – Sunday, 9am (finishes at 2pm)
Cost R1 375 per person
R250 (extra for ebike)
Where to find it Adventure Shop, Ou Landbousaal, 1 Noordwal-Wes Road, Stellenbosch
Book Now

Walk the riverside Art Mile

Take some time out to enjoy a 1.6km stroll in the new open-air gallery along the Eerste River, beneath the shade of old trees, crossing six bridges and encountering interactive artworks from 20 artists. The theme of this year’s exhibition is “Reflect: Beyond the Surface”, encouraging you to pause, take note and contemplate. From photos, murals and sculptures to a game of noughts and crosses in serpentine stone, a bench beside a sculpture made from 6 000 woven seed pods, a wonderful beehive, a piece inspired by Tibetan prayer wheels, and a bridge that is itself an artwork, the works represent a diverse range of ideas and artists (established and upcoming, local and from further afield). An ever-evolving project, nature itself is also part of the art. At either end of the walk are cafés for coffee and light meals: Eerste Kafee (in a cargo container) and Aunty Sophie se Kombuis.
Good to know First Thursdays has come to Stellenbosch, too, where you can enjoy the latest art, music, culture, food and drinks on one buzzy night out every month.
Times 24 hours a day
Cost Free
QR codes along the route allow you to donate to the Stellenbosch Trails Fund
Where to find it From 1 Noordwal-Wes Street/corner Koch Street to Suidwal Street, Stellenbosch

Explore the town with a local

Apart from its wine, cuisine and academic pursuits, Stellenbosch has a 350-year story to tell and a vibrant art scene. Join a 90-minute walking tour through the history-filled avenues of the City of Oaks – including the oldest residential street in SA – stopping at places of interest and hearing stories about colourful residents (including a few ghosts). Or choose a half-day guided art walk, and you’ll visit current exhibitions and meet artists in their studios while enjoying the architecture and discovering outdoor sculptures here, there and everywhere.
Times History Tour: Monday – Friday, 9am, 11am + 3pm
Saturday + Sunday, 9am + 11am
Art Tour: Monday – Thursday, 10am + 2pm
Friday + Saturday, 10am
Cost History Tour: R250 per person
Art Tour: R450 per person (minimum 2 people)
Contact 084 479 7262, info@stellenboschonfoot.co.za
Where to find it Wine Route Office, 47 Church Street, Stellenbosch
Book Now

You might also be interested in:
The Best  Wine Farms in Stellenbosch
The Best Wine-Tasting Experiences in Stellenbosch
The Best Restaurants in Stellenbosch
The Best Coffee Shops in Stellenbosch
The Best Wine Bars
The Best Picnic Spots
The Best Things To Do with Kids in Stellenbosch
The Best Places to Stay in Stellenbosch

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for hot new openings, secret spots and incredible escapes – straight to your inbox every week.