I recently returned from another wonderful week in Stellenbosch and I’m all fired up to tell everyone I know about the new places I discovered and the old gems I revisited. If you’re looking for some inspiration to plan a weekend away or book a holiday, you’ll find ten great reasons to make Stellenbosch your next destination here.
Here are a few of my favourite places to stay and eat in Stellenbosch.
Where to stay in Stellenbosch
There are lots of different types of accommodation to choose from in Stellenbosch, ranging from self-catering, to 5 star.
L’Avenir Country Lodge – The beautiful lodge is positioned on the working wine farm, within walking distance of the tasting room and restaurant. The rooms are comfortable and big, with free wifi and vineyard views. It has a beautiful infinity pool overlooking the vines and dams, but what I loved was that my room had a little private plunge pool.
The hotel serves a hearty breakfast and if you don’t want to leave your accommodation, you can always enjoy a wine tasting or lunch at the farm. I stayed here for 4 nights and I would definitely go back.
Jordan Luxury Suites – So luxurious, and set on one of the most stunning farms in Stellenbosch. The plush rooms have everything you need and more, the farm produces some of the top wines in SA and the restaurant is consistently voted as one of the best in the country.
If you need to burn some calories, you can take a walk up into the vines, where you’ll find views that encompass the whole Simonsberg on one side, stretching all the way to Table Mountain on the other. Good luck getting yourself to leave.
Devon Valley Hotel – Close to town, very comfortable and budget-friendly. The rooms are spacious (I see a trend, Stellenbosch) and great views. I spent two nights at this hotel on my recent visit and I particularly liked the cosy lounge for wine tastings and fireside chilling.
Spier Hotel – Spier has some surprising and wonderful elements, like a variety of super environmentally friendly initiatives, farm-to-table dining, great wine and lots to do. The hotel is warm and comfortable and especially nice for groups or families.
They have a resident cat who once deigned me good enough to spend the night curled up at the foot of my bed and it’s literally one of the best hotel nights of my life. They also do a great breakfast, which you can follow up with a 5km run around the property. You can find the running route printed out on a lanyard at reception.
Majeka House – So beautiful and luxurious and quirky, this 5 star guest house is full of unique and carefully planned touches. It’s always been my dream to stay here and I finally got to experience the full spectrum of this luxury property during my recent #Stellenblog visit. It did not disappoint.
There are home-baked cookies in the room and beautiful details all over the property – like floral wallpaper on the ceiling above the bed, with mood lighting that perfectly showcases its beauty. They have a really nice spa on site (with surprisingly affordable treatments) as well as a stunning indoor pool. And don’t even get me started on the breakfast – which I think is the best in Stellenbosch.
Set in probably one of the most picturesque corners of Stellenbosch, Wedgeview has some great views and a stunning pool to cool off in on those Stellenbosch summer days. It’s close enough to town and a few of the best wine farms in the region to be called “perfectly positioned”, while still giving you the feeling of being submerged in the winelands.
The Presidential Suite is super luxurious, and perfect if you’re travelling in a group.
Where to Eat in Stellenbosch:
Bistro13 – Honest, delicious food that has never once disappointed. They also have a kids area if you or your friends have little ones. This is one of my favourite restaurants in Stellenbosch.
Jordan Bakery – Easy on the eye, the Bakery at Jordan serves fresh breads, spreads and cheeses, as well as light meals. Obviously it all pairs perfectly with their wines.
Eight at Spier – Hearty, always sourced either from on the farm itself or within 30km’s. The food at Eight is seasonal, fresh and delicious. What I love about this restaurant is the fact that they don’t make a huge deal of how natural and homegrown their food is. They make it feel like this is just how food should be. And maybe it’s just me, but I think you can taste the difference.
Joostenberg Bistro – French food with a South African vibe and a great team running the show. This is the perfect place for a family meal. The bistro is cosy and bustling with views of the farm. Another example of Stellenbosch’s somewhat under-played “eat local movement”, with most of the produce being either grown on the property or sourced from neighbours.
Makaron at Majeka House – I’ve had some wonderful dinners here, but for me it’s really the breakfast that’s unmissable. Freshly baked breads and pastries, homemade cheeses and yogurt, cold pressed juices and beautiful cutlery and crockery make for a great start to the day. I wonder if the restaurant owner decided to have a look at this Nella Food Equipment when deciding on what types of cutlery to buy for the place. Wherever they got it from, it looks beautiful anyway.
Peter Falke Wines – Cheese and charcuterie while you sip on great wine. What’s not to love? Wait, I forgot to mention how pretty it is.
Indochine at Delaire Graff Estate – By far my new Stellenbosch favourite. Completely unique to the region, Indochine serves Asian-fusion style food, the memory of which is making my mouth water as I type this. A must, must, must visit. Delaire Graff itself is a highlight, with mega views and an art collection that moved me close to tears. Don’t ever leave Stellenbosch without making a date with your tastebuds here.
Waterkloof – Unmissable fine dining. Food that not only looks to good to eat, but tastes sublime too. The entire experience is one to be remembered, from arriving at the farm and taking in the “cellar in the sky”, to the views, service, wines and food. Chef Gregory Czarnecki and his edible art have cult status in SA, and it’s easy to understand why.
Terroir at Kleine Zalze – Seven-time awarded top-ten status, Terroir is always full, which speaks for itself. Chef Michael Broughton’s signature prawn risotto is everything you could hope for in a plate of food, and winemaker RJ Botha’s wines should really be on your Stellenbosch to-drink list.
96 Winery Road – If you need a break from fine dining and you’re looking for somewhere to settle down for a hearty, yet flavourful meal, this is your place. It’s the restaurant I take my dad to when he complains that fine dining food is too small, but I refuse to compromise on quality. Always a hit.
*My recent visit to Stellenbosch was part of the #Stellenblog campaign. As always, my views and blog remain completely honest and based on my experience.
