Recognised as one of South Africa’s leading food and wine destinations, Stellenbosch is home to an extraordinary collection of award-winning restaurants, wine estates and chefs. Taste Stellenbosch celebrates this culinary community through a programme designed to showcase the culinary creativity and generosity that define the region. 

This year’s line-up features everything from intimate chef collaborations and vineyard feasts to long-table lunches, wine pairings and specially curated seasonal menus. Highlights include experiences at De Warenmarkt, Muratie Farm Kitchen, HŌSEKI at Delaire Graff Estate, Lanzerac, Warwick Wine Estate, Klein Joostenberg Bistro and many more, each offering visitors a unique way to discover Stellenbosch through food and wine. 

Taste Stellenbosch extends beyond the table. A selection of exclusive accommodation offers at boutique guesthouses, vineyard retreats and luxury hotels encourages visitors to slow down, stay a little longer and enjoy everything the destination has to offer. 

“Taste Stellenbosch is more than a celebration of exceptional food and wine. It is a celebration of the people, passion and craftsmanship that have shaped Stellenbosch into South Africa’s leading food and wine destination,” says Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch. “Every chef, winemaker, farmer, artisan producer and host contributes to a culinary story that is uniquely Stellenbosch.”

Whether you’re planning a leisurely weekend in the Winelands or simply looking for your next memorable meal, Taste Stellenbosch offers the perfect excuse to gather around the table and experience the flavours, people and places that make Stellenbosch one of the country’s most celebrated culinary destinations.

Discover the full programme and plan your visit here.

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The celebrations follow a standout academic year for SU, which awarded over 10,000 qualifications in 2025 alone. A significant portion of these were postgraduate degrees, highlighting SU’s continued strength in advanced research and academic excellence.

This year’s ceremonies also mark the beginning of a transition period. From 2027, the University will consolidate its graduation calendar into a single, extended series in March/April, moving away from the long-standing split between December and March events.

In addition to the graduates, several influential figures will be honoured with honorary doctorates. These include Nobel Prize-winning author Abdulrazak Gurnah, public health leader Olive Shisana, and digital banking pioneer Tjaart Johannes van der Walt – a fitting tribute to impact across literature, healthcare and innovation.

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THE ORIGINAL IDEA for the Cape Epic multi-day MTB race sparked 23 years ago in Costa Rica. At the time, Kevin Vermaak was working in London and in November 2002 he decided to take a break and race La Ruta de los Conquistadores in this Central American paradise.

His on-the-ground experience of this exhilarating multi-day MTB stage race – traversing wild and exotic jungle – blew him away. Not surprisingly, during the adventure a seed was planted to replicate this thrilling high and create an African equivalent that would match the contemporary boom of multi-day mountain biking across Europe and the Americas.

Kevin returned to South Africa in 2003, intent on turning this vision into a dream. A year of hard graft and no small amount of personal risk saw him launch the first Cape Epic in 2004, on a shoestring budget and with a limited field of riders.

The gruelling race began as a point-to-point route, with Stellenbosch and the Winelands always positioned as champagne stages during the event. This is no wonder when one considers the combination of natural splendour and world-class singletrack.

By that time, Stellenbosch had become the de facto headquarters for a host of MTB world champions and Olympians, further contributing to its cachet as one of South Africa’s prime riding regions. Kevin used this as additional leverage to persuade elite athletes to enter what would soon become the undisputed ‘Tour de France of mountain biking’.

Big names like Karl Platt, Christoph Sauser and Bart Brentjens came on board – as did Absa as a major sponsor – making the event the crucible where velo heroes from around the globe came to prove themselves. Stefan Sahm from Germany was one of them, and his name became synonymous with Cape Epic success.

The Switzerland-based ‘Sahmurai’s’ record speaks for itself. Three overall victories stand as a solid benchmark, undeniably etching his influence on Cape Epic mythology. Quiet, committed and considered, Stefan denies that his success was ever built on raw power; it only came to the fore, he says, once he joined forces with Karl Platt.

As a team, he and Karl built on a recipe of consistency, opting to play it safe during both the race and the recovery stages. “We knew we had to keep ourselves bullet-proof, all while still having fun, of course,” says Stefan, “so we rode smart and never wasted energy.”

The pair smoked the downhill sections due to their matchless technical skill, but without ever risking too much. “We felt total trust for each other’s lines and race strategy. Team racing is a different game, all about managing the daily chaos and leaving your egos at home … With Karl it was like racing with my brother from another mother,” he explains.

Many of the duo’s finest moments occurred along the exhilarating singletrack that meanders among the verdant vineyards and in the dramatic nature reserves that grace the Winelands area around Stellenbosch. In fact, a handful of Stefan’s Top South African trails spiderweb from the town itself!

“To be honest, many of the hand-built trails in the Cape are gold standard and I’d love to explore more of them, maybe connect all the way to the gorgeous Garden Route,” he admits.

“Right at the top of my list is Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, and what better place to start than the ‘Never-ending Story’? That gut- thumping drop into the apex of the trail – with the view of the entire valley opening up below you – is utterly breathtaking. The route brims with fast and flowy sections, with just enough grit to always keep it real. Best of all, you usually have a tailwind, too!

“Another firm favourite is ‘G-Spot’, and I’m so in awe that this is a labour of love by the Stellenbosch mountain-biking community. Everything’s there, from pine and eucalyptus plantations to fynbos ridges and indigenous forest, with some proper technical segments as you traverse the ridges above this stunning university town.”

Today the Absa Cape Epic is a different beast from what it was when it began 21 years ago. “A lot has changed, from the style of racing and the original point-to-point routes,” reflects Stefan. “I prefer to stay in one place for longer, as it allows more recovery time for the racers and crew. I should know, because after 2016, I transitioned from racing to being on the media team.”

The more things change, the more they stay the same.

“The Epic spirit will always be a part of this race, where I experienced some of the most rewarding moments of my life. I’ll never forget winning our first Cape Epic in 2007 and sitting together with all the heroes of my youth.

“Now as good friends, we were celebrating an amazing week of racing!”

There are other cherished memories, among them winning two more Epics and becoming an integral member of a global band of mountain-biking brothers. “A top memory for me is that Nino Schurter and Matthias Stirnemann could not drop me on my heavy e-bike and with all my camera gear on a technical singletrack, even though they tried their best. We had a good laugh and a couple of beers that night,” he recalls.

One thing for sure is that Stefan will return once more for the 2026 edition of the Absa Cape Epic. Nobody can predict exactly what will be on the dirt menu for riders this year, but indications are the race will return to the raw, endurance driven roots of those early days.

This will mean longer stages, harsher terrain and a route that blends classic Epic brutality with modern, purpose-built singletrack. Riders should count on fewer ‘recovery’ (read: easy riding) days, with more exposure to heat and wind, plus an emphasis on remote backcountry riding.

The route design team will focus on classic endurance mountain biking rather than pure flow, all while maximising classy trail networks in their targeted regions. As usual, opening stages will feature fast vineyard singletrack within the Winelands. Riders will then venture inland, returning to Montagu for the first time in two decades. Dusty and dry Klein Karoo terrain – with long climbs and extreme heat – will test the peloton as they edge towards Greyton, where classic marathon conditions should hold sway. The pièce de résistance will be the holy grail of trails spiderwebbing around Stellenbosch, the undisputed spiritual home of mountain biking in South Africa – a fitting grand finale after two decades of incomparable Epic action. This Stellenbosch section will feature some of the race’s most viewer-friendly stages, where superb singletrack funnels riders onto iconic, purpose-built trails that combine flat-box vineyard sections, steep fynbos climbs and technical mountain descents. As expected, the key hubs will include Jonkershoek, Coetzenburg and Helderberg, with a number of spectator friendly viewing points close to town.

Dial into the action at Armageddon, Never Ending Story, Plumber and the Fire-hut Descent – all in Jonkershoek Valley – or fly your local colours above Coetzenburg at G-Spot, Snake Eyes, Mamba or Red Phoenix. Helderberg and Eden Forest will deliver close encounters along The Mast, Rooikat and Boomslang Descent, so don’t miss out!

In short, the 2026 Cape Epic is shaping up to be a classic throwback edition. Less forgiving, more demanding, and respectful of those early origins, this will be a route designed not just to test speed, but to expose weaknesses in preparation, patience and partnership.

Get ready to experience the ‘wild and untamed’!

Five Prime Viewing Spots

JONKERSHOEK GATE / FIRE HUT: Riders funnel through narrow forest trails; dramatic climbing and descending.

COETZENBURG TRAILS HUB: Easy access, multiple trail crossings, close to Stellenbosch town centre.

G-SPOT CLIMB: Slow, steep pinch point where gaps open and enthusiastic crowds gather.

HELDERBERG MAST: Spectacular backdrop, riders visibly suffering late in the race.

STELLENBOSCH FINISH CHUTE: High energy atmosphere, final sprints and podium drama.

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This year, from 3-8 March 2026, Allée Bleue Wine Estate will host the event for the second time under the theme “A Kaleidoscope of Making”. More than 160 makers will be showcasing their creative works, offering visitors an inside look at how ideas evolve into finished products.

KAMERS/Makers has always been more than a marketplace. It’s a chance to connect directly with the people behind the products and to understand the story that goes into each creation. From handcrafted ceramics and textiles to innovative design objects, every purchase supports the vision and dedication of a maker.

Against the backdrop of the Winelands, with endless vineyards and mountain views, KAMERS/Makers combines shopping and inspiration in one accessible location – an opportunity to engage with South Africa’s creative community in a personal, hands-on way.

Whether you’re a design enthusiast or simply curious about the making process, KAMERS/Makers 2026 promises insight, discovery and a chance to celebrate the people shaping South Africa’s creative landscape.

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A Global Gathering of Artistic Voices

With 126 exhibitors from 34 cities and nearly 490 artists participating, ICTAF 2026 brings a diversity of contemporary work to Cape Town. Galleries from Barcelona, Paris, Lagos, Stockholm and beyond join South African mainstays like Stevenson Gallery, Goodman Gallery and SMAC Gallery – all showing how the city is becoming a vital site of global art exchange. 

Standout Artists and Presentations

While the full programme spans multiple sections, here are some highlights to watch out for:

• Johann Louw: As a painter and mixed-media artist whose work often explores materiality, abstraction and the interplay of form and texture, Johann’s bold, tactile canvases invites viewers to slow down and engage with the physicality of the canvas. Represented by SMAC Gallery.
• Frances Goodman: Represented by SMAC Gallery, Frances is known for her inventive use of beads, sequins and everyday materials. She creates sculptural works that play with notions of beauty, value, and societal expectation.
• Zanele Muholi: Celebrated internationally for their powerful explorations of identity and community through photography, Zanele’s work is featured through Southern Guild’s expansive presentation.
• Kaleab Abate: Represented by Afriart Gallery, Kaleab’s work explores urban life and identity through layered compositions. These consist of paintings of urban experience and memory in Ethiopia.
• Henry Mzili Mujunga: Henry’s art weaves memory and cultural narratives into engagement with place and history. Also represented by Afriart Gallery, his textured works offers an intergenerational and regional perspective aligned with this year’s “Listen” theme.

Beyond the Booths

Beyond the gallery booths, ICTAF 2026 debuts a dedicated Performance Project, showcasing multidisciplinary works that blur the lines between visual art, movement and sound. At the same time, the talks programme has been moved into a purpose-built auditorium within the exhibition hall, putting artist-led discussions and workshops front and centre. These initiatives ensure that the fair isn’t just a place to view art, but a space to reflect and actively participate.

Scale and Substance

As the largest art fair on the African continent, ICTAF continues to position Cape Town as a key player in the global cultural conversation. With Listen as its guiding thread, the 2026 edition promises not just scale, but substance. A space where contemporary art unfolds through dialogue, exchange and considered engagement.

Whether you’re an art lover, collector or just a curious visitor, this edition of the fair promises to be a space where listening becomes part of seeing.

The post Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2026: What to See appeared first on Stellenbosch Visio.

Huis van sand
Dit sal niemand verbaas dat die wenner van die Reinet Nagtegaal-teksprys, Huis van sand, ’n hoë golf ry nie. “Jy as gehoorlid wil dalk dít wat voor jou afspeel ignoreer of afmaak as fiksie, maar die feite laat nie met hulle stry nie. Daarom wéét jy die uiteinde gaan tragies wees en deur nog geweld geken word.” – Marina Griebenow, INK. 
Met Tinarie van Wyk Loots, René Cloete, Kristen Raath, Jefferson J. Dirks-Korkee
Tot 17 Oktober | Koop kaartjies | Lees resensie

Zoid Psalms
’n Nuwe musikale ervaring met ’n grensverskuiwende samesmelting van heilige en moderne klanke wag in Zoid Psalms, ’n produksie wat sy gelyke nie ken nie. Kom geniet die mengsel van ikoniese kerkorrel en die sensasionele energie van Karen Zoid se rock-kitare in ’n unieke produksie wat ouwêreldse instrumentasie en kontemporêre musiek verken. 
Tot 19 Oktober | Koop kaartjies

Kinderlê
“Lynthia Julius se Kinderlê bring ’n stuk Namakwalandse geskiedenis uit 1867 terug na die lig. Is rof en spiritueel, die tipe teater wat jou nie troos nie, maa laat onthou,” skryf Chase Rhys op INK.
Met Miché van Wyk, Theodore Jantjies, Lynette du Plessis, Damian Jacobs
Tot 19 Oktober | Koop kaartjies | Lees resensie

‘KUNS’
“Yasmina Reza se Art kô Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees toe as ‘KUNS’ met Naòmi Morgan se skêp vertaling en met Marthinus Basson as regisseur en ontwerper,” skryf Chase Rhys op INK. “Die Adam Small-ouditorium was vol ennie gehoo vasgenael. Die set-up bly simple. Drie ou vriende pluk aan mekaa tot die vriendskap begin ytrafel, all because een van hulle ’n duur stuk kuns gekoepit.” Met Wessel Pretorius, Ludwig Binge, Wilhelm van der Walt
Tot 19 Oktober | Koop kaartjies | Lees resensie

Magda en haar Erhard: How “Louw” can you go?
“As jy gedink het die anekdotes van dié twee ou mense is staties, wag ’n verrassing op jou,” terg Elretha Britz in haar resensie op Netwerk24. Magda en Erhard het ’n goeie show beplan wat dalk selfs vir ’n prys benoem kan word. Maar die ou man vergeet heeltyd waar hy moet inkom en arme Magda moet net vure doodslaan. 
Met Desiré Gardner, Hannes van Wyk
Tot 16 Oktober 18:30 | Koop kaartjies | Lees resensie

The Barber of Seville
“As jy gedink het Die barbier van Sevilla is ’n opera wat nie enigsins meer camp kan raak nie, is jy verkeerd,” sê Naudé van der Merwe op INK. “In Kaapstad Opera se jongste weergawe van Rossini se immergewilde opera is elke liewe aksie, van elk van die etlike karakters, oordrewe tot op die punt van absurditeit, maar in die buitelug by Spier se amfiteater het dit so natuurlik gevoel soos die soel naglug met Sondag se openingsaand.” 
Met William Berger, Megan Kahts en 14 ander sangers van Kaapstad Opera
Tot 16 Oktober 19:30 | Koop kaartjies | Lees resensie

Boesman en Lena
Boesman en Lena is twee hawelose randfigure – uitgelewer aan mekaar, die elemente en ’n politieke bestel wat hulle nie ag nie. Athol Fugard se ikoniese stuk bied ’n boeiende blik op die kompleksiteit van verhoudings en maatskaplike ongeregtigheid. “Elke stilte, elke asemhaling, dra betekenis en laat die gehoor voel hoe die drang na oorlewing en menslikheid teen die wreedheid van die stelsel baklei,” skryf Kelly-Lee Ohlson op Netwerk24.
Met Veronique Jephtas, Brendon Daniels, Tshamano Sebe
Tot 19 Oktober | Koop Kaartjies | Lees resensie

Liefde, Lafras
Liefde, Lafras word beskryf as ’n gevoelvolle reis wat jou met ’n dieper begrip vir menswees en verlange laat, afgewissel met humor en romanse van mense wat mekaar ’n leeftyd ken. 
Met Antoinette Kellermann, Gerben Kamper
Tot 19 Oktober | Koop kaartjies | Lees resensie

Toyota Musiekfees-opelugkonserte
Jy kan nog uitsien na die volgende Toyota Musiekfees-opelugkonserte in die Jan Marais-natuurreservaat – jou musiekkuier onder die Stellenbosch-sterre. Bring jou kampstoel, piekniekmandjie en baadjie.
– Roan Ash & Brandon Miles | 17 Oktober 19:00
– Early B & Salome | 18 Oktober 19:30
– Mandisi Dyantyis | 19 Oktober 19:00
Koop kaartjies

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The event brought together a curated collection of luxury brands and inspiring partners who helped make the day truly unforgettable.

@home showcased stylish homeware and festive table settings; Armani Beauty treated guests to luxurious touch-ups and makeup experiences, and introduced the best of their signature scents. Fijn Botanicals shared their handcrafted natural skincare products, while GraySwan highlighted their ongoing charitable work through the GraySwan Charitable Trust.

Adding to the experience, Polo South Africa presented their latest clothing collection, with Stellenbosch Visio’s fashion editor Jackie Burger sharing expert advice on festive season styling. Lexus brought a touch of sophistication with a showcase of their luxury vehicles and an authentic Omotenashi tea experience, and Quoin Rock Estate provided the idyllic setting, complemented by exquisite canapés and fine wines.

With an atmosphere of inspiration and celebration, the event served as a beautiful reminder of the power of women coming together. Catch a glimpse of the day’s beautiful moments in our reel here.

The post Inspiring, Connecting & Celebrating: The 2025 Stellenbosch Visio Women’s Brunch appeared first on Stellenbosch Visio.

Family Fun at Spier Wine Farm

Spier Wine Farm invites you to gather the kids, the oumas and oupas for a weekend of wholesome farm fun and flavour. Young ones (ages 3–12) can join the Easter Bunny on a clue-filled Easter Scavenger Hunt from 18–20 April, while parents enjoy wine tasting along the way.

From 18–21 April, pre-order a generous Easter Family Picnic filled with hot cross buns, miso roast lamb, pickled fish and more – plus a complimentary bottle of Spier’s award-winning Seaward wine per double basket. Then on Easter Sunday (20 April), Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery serves a decadent lunch or dinner – and you won’t leave without picking up freshly baked hot cross buns and pasteis de nata.

Visit their website for more information and to make a reservation.  

Indulge at Vergenoegd Löw

Escape to the tranquillity of Vergenoegd Löw for a weekend of indulgence and celebration. Highlights include a luxurious five-course Easter feast at Clara’s Barn, relaxed shared-plate dining at Geuwels, and a range of family-friendly activities on the farm.

Little ones will love exploring the open spaces and spotting the estate’s famous Indian Runner ducks, while adults can unwind with award-winning wines, spa experiences, and scenic walks through the historic estate.

Visit their website for more information and to make a reservation.  

Hop into the Trails at Muratie

End the Easter weekend on a high note with a scenic trail run at Muratie Wine Estate on Monday, 21 April. With the majestic Simonsberg as your backdrop, choose between a 6km or 12km route and enjoy hand-built singletrack trails, a festive atmosphere, and Easter eggs for all!

Expect refreshment stations, post-run massages, prize giveaways, and delicious food and wine to round off your adventure.

Visit their website to enter.

Easter Delights at Blaauwklippen

Blaauwklippen is pulling out all the stops for an unforgettable Easter weekend from 18 to 21 April 2025. Little ones can unleash their creativity with the Kiddies’ Easter Tasting, decorating cookies and sipping chocolate milk in the Tasting Room. The annual Easter Egg Hunt kicks off on Saturday, 19 April at 11:00 with a fun “Dress Like a Bunny” theme.

Grown-ups can look forward to Happy Hour specials while watching the Stormers game, and on Sunday, enjoy 10% off Blaauwklippen’s indulgent Chocolate & Wine Pairing. With extended Easter Market hours and a festive line-up, Blaauwklippen promises a weekend of joy for all ages.

Visit their website for more information.

Fun & Flavour at Babylonstoren

For those looking to experience something truly unique, join Babylonstoren for the Amazing Rabbit Race! Watch as teams race to follow clues and solve puzzles, all while taking in the beauty of Babylonstoren’s iconic gardens.

In addition to this event, treat your taste buds with Babylonstoren’s curated Easter collection. From handcrafted chocolate eggs and freshly baked treats to their seasonal hampers, there’s something for everyone.

Visit their website to explore these offerings.

A Gourmet Garden Escape at Cavalli

Spend Easter unwinding in Cavalli Estate’s manicured gardens with a limited-edition gourmet picnic, thoughtfully curated and packed with local flavours. Overlooking the vineyards and Helderberg mountains, this elevated picnic experience is ideal for couples and families looking to soak up the autumn sun in style.

Contact info@cavalliestate.com or 021 855 3218 to book your spot.

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Watch the video

The Masterclass unpacked how successful partnerships drive the journey from grape to glass — and beyond, delivering speed with sustainability, collaboration without the loss of individuality.

The post Old Mutual Wealth Wine Masterclass™: Hamilton Russel Vineyards appeared first on Stellenbosch Visio.

Watch the video

The Masterclass unpacked dynasties in the Cape wine industry and how they are created, built, nurtured and set deep.

The post Old Mutual Wealth Wine Masterclass™: Cape Point Vineyards appeared first on Stellenbosch Visio.