The Western Cape has a number of priceless gems in terms of its towns, heritage and attractions. However, Paarl (which is the Afrikaans word for “pearl”) really is a very special one. It is situated just outside Cape Town, within the world-famous Cape Winelands that have lured millions of tourists from all around the world.
This small town is particularly rich in history and culture, creating a very characteristic ambience that romances the visitors the minute they step foot into its borders.
Paarl is situated 60 kilometres from the heart of Cape Town and about 30 kilometres from the International Airport. This airport is enormous, capable of handling mass arrivals and departures from and to destinations all over the world.
The wines produced in and around Paarl are acclaimed all over the world. Some of the most common attractions in this area, therefore, are the wine farms and cellars. Wine tours and tastings are fabulous outings.
Some of these wine farms include:
- Avondale Bio-Logic and Organic Wines
- Backsberg Estate
- Boland Kelder
- De Zoete Inval Wine Estate
- Fairview
- Glen Carlou
- Laborie Wine Estate
- Perdeberg Winery
- Ruitersvlei Wines
The arboretum is situated on the exquisite banks of the Berg River and has 700 varieties of trees. When Simon van der Stel was Governor of the Cape of Good Hope, he donated a number of trees, mainly Oak Trees, to this area. Today, these are huge reminders that tower over the town, known as the Giants of Paarl. Thousands of mammoth trees now create a lush, dense display of the immensity of nature.
The Afrikaans Language Monument is dedicated to the history of the Afrikaans language. It deals with the difficulties of colonialism and apartheid and the identity and influence of the Afrikaans language in South Africa and the Western Cape. The monument is complemented by the Afrikaans Language Museum, which gives greater insights and even more information.
Paarl is situated in the heart of a number of mountains. This means plenty of hiking, walking and cycling opportunities. There are a host of trails leading through, over and around these bergs, offering spectacular views, fresh air and a very special experience of the Western Cape outdoors.
The Boschenmeer Golf Course was designed by David Frost and is a 27-hole course. The mountains that surround the town provide a spectacular setting in which to spend a day on the fairway.
Rhebokskloof Estate is a wine farm that boasts picturesque backdrops. For a really memorable time, take a horse-and-carriage ride around the farm. There are a number of packages available, including lunches, champagne breakfast trails and wine tastings.
Paarl Information / Links
- Paarl Attractions
- Paarl Wine Estates
- Things to Do in Paarl
- Hotel accommodation in Paarl Hotels
- Accommodation in South Africa
