Beautiful Stellenbosch

I recently graduated from university and thus had to move back home, where I will be entering the working world and acting all grown up. While this is exciting, and the prospect of earning a salary wonderful, it has also meant leaving my home of four years... the beautiful Stellenbosch. I felt it was about time I actually mention some South African locations to visit and so the timing seems perfect to start with this stunning Cape Winelands gem.

Stellenbosch is a university town found in the Western Cape, about half an hour from bustling and yet at the same time laid-back Cape Town. Its streets are lined with giant, old oak trees and squirrels scurry around with no care in the world. Everybody walks, cycles or skateboards, as parking in Stellies can be a nightmare. The town is full of local favourites, from clubs (some of which even have *sokkie dance floors) and cute restaurants or pubs that line the sidewalks, to the stunning botanical gardens. Art galleries, interesting little shops, museums and beautiful old buildings and churches provide one with an endless supply of things to see and do. Find Trumpet Tree down a hidden alleyway for scrumptious food, or visit the infamous Oom Sammies se Winkel for interesting treasures. Cheesecake (or any cake for that matter) at Java is a must, just as Pizza and box wine is at Bohemia. You will find many little treasures in this beautiful place, and I can honestly say that I was never bored in my four years there.

Venture out of Stellies to go Champagne and nougat tasting at JC Le Roux, or just go wine tasting at any of the many surrounding wine farms. Many places do free tastings or charge a minimal fee. Paarl, Franschoek, Sommerset West, Strand and Gordons Bay are also situated nearby.

                Paarl – try Cafe Juno or cake at Kika, and see the Taal Monument.

                Franschoek – go chocolate tasting at Huguenot fine chocolates. It is
                only R35 and definitely worth it.

                Strand – Have the most gigantic ice-creams from Nice Ice-cream.

                Gordons bay – Relax on Bikini Beach, while enjoying a book
                purchased from one of the greatest used bookstores on the
                planet, found on the road along the beachfront.

Go hiking at Jonkershoek, or berry picking on a nearby farm. Enjoy one of the wonderful slow food or farmers markets that happen over the weekend. Take a walk in “die laan” and just take in the beauty of this small, yet busy town.

I truly hope that you love it as much as I did.

Forever a Matie.

·       *"Sokkiing" is an Afrikaans dance done in pairs. There are a few different styles, but girls, be prepared to be spun and dipped. Ask anyone on a sokkie dance floor to show you how... and you definitely won’t regret it. It is loads of fun and a great workout.  A wonderful South African experience, and a definite must if you enjoy dancing.