Stellenbosch is South Africa's oldest wine town — and the perfect day trip from Villa Austral. Cape Dutch architecture, centuries-old oak-lined avenues, Michelin-worthy restaurants and more than 200 wine estates within easy reach. Here is how to plan the perfect tour.
Getting there & timing
It's about 75 minutes from Kommetjie via the N2. Leave by 9 am so you can visit two estates before lunch and still enjoy the historic centre in the afternoon. If you plan to taste wine, a designated driver or Uber Intercity is the most relaxed option.
Stop 1 — Tokara or Delaire Graff
Both estates sit on the Helshoogte Pass overlooking the Stellenbosch valley. Tokara combines wine, olive oil and contemporary art; Delaire Graff is the more luxurious option with a sculpture garden and one of the best views in the Cape region.
Lunch — Jordan, Babel or Overture
Afternoon in the historic centre
Dorpstraat is South Africa's best-preserved 18th-century street. Wander galleries and concept stores, visit the Village Museum (four houses from different eras) and stop for a specialty coffee at Hazz or Schoon.
Stop 2 — A sundowner estate
Finish at Waterford Estate (wine & chocolate pairing) or Spier with its Eagle Encounters and Vadas restaurant. If you start early enough, the Slow Market weekend pairs Stellenbosch wine with food trucks at Oude Libertas Estate.
Alternative: Franschhoek
With more time, drive 30 minutes further to Franschhoek and use the Wine Tram as a relaxed hop-on-hop-off between estates. Also read our detailed wine estates guide. Check availability.
