Having the opportunity to travel solo is one that you should relish, not dread. Travelling by yourself can seem kind of scary or intimidating, but after you’ve survived your first solo trip, you’ll start dreaming about the next one…and the next. My first solo trip was to India in 2013 and I’ve never looked back. It was an opportunity to be completely independent, self-reliant and selfish. Most people think that having dinner by yourself would feel a bit lonely or sad, but honestly, it’s such a small part of your day that it hardly features. Solo travel also gives you the opportunity to meet new people and be open to lots of new experiences. Here’s my guide on what to do in Stellenbosch solo.
The town of Stellenbosch is located in the Western Cape – about 20 minutes from Cape Town. Famous for its wine production and world-class university, Stellenbosch has an excellent balance between quaint wine farm culture and vibrant student scene. The university students mingling in street side cafés give the town its youth, while the traditional and heritage-rich wine farms give it its culture. With a walkable town bustling with restaurants and coffee shops and accommodation to suit every budget, Stellenbosch is the perfect place for your next solo adventure.
What to do in Stellenbosch solo
Breakfast at Majeka House
With the extensive breakfast buffet on offer at Majeka House, this is one time you’ll be happy not to have someone watching just how many times you go back for more. Their selection of home-baked pastries and breads, fresh-pressed juices, cheese, charcuterie and warm breakfast items are just too good to be modest with.
Olive Oil Tasting at Tokara
Tokara is known for incredible views, excellent wine and delicious food – but what you might not know is that produce some exceptional olive oil. This tutored tasting is the perfect solo experience, since you have the friendly and knowledgeable team to chat to you as you learn about the subtle fragrances and flavours of the various olive oils they produce. Such an interesting experience. And while you’re there – why not try the wine tasting too?
Lunch at the Lanzerac Deli
This cozy deli at Lanzerac is the ideal spot to enjoy a light lunch. Their menu is filled with salads, sandwiches and cheese and charcuterie boards. They also serve Terbodore coffee (one of my favourites) and have fast wifi, so you can catch up on emails or social media if you need to. I was there in the middle of the week and it was bustling, so you’re not likely to feel all alone in the world. I can also recommend their wine tasting or chocolate and wine pairing with one of their friendly staff – some of whom have been there for 30 years!
WATCH: Beautiful Stellenbosch for Solo Travellers
Spa Treatment at Delaire Graff
The jewel of the winelands, Delaire Graff is a feast for the eyes! It’s worth visiting even just to see the extensive African art collection – or the amazing gardens that welcome you – or the views from the restaurant deck. But the spa is really pure luxury. A full body massage is the ultimate me-time treat, with a dip in the jacuzzi offering views that will stay with you after you leave.
Dinner at Tiger’s Milk
This local favourite is such a vibe that you probably won’t even notice you’re there solo. The waiters are super friendly (and good looking, if you must know) university students who are happy to chat you through the menu. Their burgers are apparently famous in town, but if you ask me, I’d be happy with just hundreds and hundreds of their hand-cut fries. It’s also the only place in town where you can get a proper cocktail, so treat yourself, girl.
Spend the night at Life & Leisure
Located just around the corner from Tiger’s Milk, you’re right in the center of town at Life & Leisure. So, should you decide to head to Balboa for a late night drink, you’re not far from home. With fast wifi, aircon, a swimming pool and a killer breakfast buffet, you’ve got all you need to feel right at home. And the best part about travelling solo of course – sleeping diagonally across the whole entire bed!
So now you know what to do in Stellenbosch solo – when are you booking your trip?
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*My trip was hosted by Stellenbosch Wine Routes. As always, all my opinions are my own.
