• On the 11th February 1990 Nelson Mandela walked to freedom from the Victor Verster prison which is just outside Paarl. • Paarl has one of the longest main streets in Africa. • Many historic buildings and well-preserved examples of Cape Dutch architecture can be found along Main Road.
- Stellenbosch
The backpackers wine haven of South Africa can be found in Stellenbosch which is the centre of the wine producing region. The setting is exquisite with old oak trees that date back to their original plantings in the 1600’s, wide streets, graceful Cape Dutch architecture, cobbled rain drains and spectacular 360 degree views.
- Gordon's Bay and Strand
Only 30 minutes from Cape Town's airport, these two towns offer mountains, wine and glorious sea.
- Joostenbergvlakte
A country suburb of Cape Town, out in the winelands, where horses are as much at home as people.
- Tulbaghcape
Wine farms and mountains. You can get here on the train.
- Franschhoek
Nestled in the Drakenstein Valley, this is where the French first settled (and made wine) some 300 years ago. Franschhoek is noted for its many magnificent wine estates, the Franschhoek Vineyards Co-operative and the Huguenot Memorial and Museum.
- Ceres region
Surrounded by mountains, Ceres is the centre of a vibrant fruit growing industry. The surrounding areas are also well known for their fine wines, so why not go on an overnight tasting trip in the far flung parts of the winelands?
Paarl Western Cape
Nestled on the banks of the Berg River, Paarl is named after the enormous dome-shaped granite rock that overshadows the town. The town has played a significant role in the development of the Afrikaans language and culture and is home to the KWV wine co-operative – one of South Africa’s major wine exporters.
Established in 1720 as a base for settlers wanting to cross the mountains into the interior, Paarl is primarily a commercial centre and possibly not as attractive as other towns in this area although the surrounding countryside and vineyards are beautiful. Five passes wind over majestic mountain ranges that are often snow capped in winter, while the Berg River winds its way through lush countryside on its way to the Atlantic Ocean, bringing sustenance to the vineyards and orchards. On the southern slopes of Paarl Mountain, the tall spires of the Taal Monument (language monument) commemorate the role the town played in forming the Afrikaans language movement.
More about…
A brief history KWV Annual events include the Nederberg Wine auction in April
A brief history KWV Annual events include the Nederberg Wine auction in April
Feeling lucky?(randomly selected service providers from all regions)
Volunteer with a company who has received awards in the field of Responsible Travel internationally and regionally
(Johannesburg,)
This backpackers in Livingstone is close to the bus stop in Livingstone, this is town's newest backpackers.
(Livingstone,Zimbabwe and Zambia)
This well established Cape Town backpackers is near the Waterfront and across the road from the World Cup Stadium.
(Green Point,Cape Town)
This Lesotho backpackers is set in the grounds of the original trading post and is a good base for exploring the beautiful Lesotho surroundings.
(Bloemfontein,Lesotho)
(Nelspruit,Mpumalanga)
A backpackers in the (very large) penthouse - why not?
(Cape Town City Centre,Cape Town)
Southern Comfort - a 26 hectare horse farm - is situated in the heart of the Knysna forest overlooking indigenous forest.
(Knysna,Garden Route)
This Cape Town based car hire company has reliable and affordable car hire for both local and national use. They pick up and drop off anywhere in the country. Their share call number is 0860 447 3222.
(Gaborone,Botswana)
They organise volunteer projects and can book day trips and safaris.
(Lobamba,Swaziland)
Bright, friendly and with an essential swimming pool.
(Victoria Falls,Zimbabwe and Zambia)
