Experience the best things to do in town with our guide to enjoying all that is Stellenbosch.
Stellenbosch’s vineyards and mountainous nature reserves provides a range of unforgettable outdoor experiences. The oak-lined streets offer world class food and wine, entertainment, art and culture, and a nightlife scene synonymous with a university town. We make recommendations for a perfect weekend in Stellenbosch, unforgettable adventures and where to stay while in town.
Upcoming Events
Bonsai Exhibition at Rupert Museum
Celebrating its 31st birthday, Boland Bonsai Kai will exhibit some of their most exquisite trees from 24 to 26 November 2023 at the Rupert Museum.
The trees will be placed amongst the famed Johannesburg Station Panels by JH Pierneef, creating exciting interactions and contrasts between two completely different, yet intrinsically related art forms.
24-26 November, 10:00-15:00. Rupert Museum. Read more here.
Family Festival
Bring the whole family for a day of colour at the Kindergarten and Playgroup Spring Festival at Stellenbosch Waldorf School, as part of their open day.
The day’s programme includes a Spring festival and market, as well as a fun run. Watch the children create flower crowns, sing in their morning circle, and experience the magic of spring.
25 November, 9:00-14:00. Stellenbosch Waldorf School. Read more here.
Villiera Fizzytherapy Festival
Join Villiera as they combine fun with Cap Classique during their Fizzytherapy Festival.
Enjoy a whimsical celebration of 40 vintages at the Villiera Annual Fizzytherapy Festival. The event promises an unforgettable blend of exquisite Cap Classiques, fine wines, delectable cuisine, live entertainment and more.
25 November, 11:00-16:00. Villiera Wine Estate. Read more here.
Sunset to Full Moon Hike at Muratie
This circular hiking trail, constructed by Dirtopia, runs from the Trail Centre at Muratie wine farm near Stellenbosch to a viewpoint with spectacular views of the Winelands and Table Mountain in the distance.
Bring a picnic to enjoy the Winelands views and have an adventure on the forest singletrack when hiking back with your headlight and the full moon in the sky.
26 November, 17:30-20:30. Muratie Wine Estate. Read more here.
The Galileo Open Air Cinema will be screening crowd-favourite A Good Year at Glenelly Estate on 25 November.
Classical music aficionados can look forward to two special events in the Endler Hall in December. The Huberte Rupert Memorial Concert featuring the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Bernhard Gueller and featuring pianist Leo Gevisser will take place on 1 December.
The 1742 Dublin version of Handel’s Messiah, performed on period instruments by the Cape Town Baroque Orchestra on 5 December. Read more
Hiking & Mountain Biking
The Jonkershoek Mountains, just outside town, offer beautiful vistas, birding, picnicking and rewarding walks and cycling trails. Here are five of the best hiking trails to explore in Stellenbosch’s mountains. Mountain bikers are reminded to invest in a Wine Lands Regional Permit that allows year-round access to 1,300km of first-rate mountain trails in and around Stellenbosch.
Local Wine Bars
Stellenbosch’s wine bars are the new vibe in the historic town centre. We share our favourite spots for enjoying local wines, taking in the unique atmosphere and excellent fare of each bar en route.
Family-friendly Activities
While our region is famous for its picturesque vineyards and award-winning wineries, several family-friendly farms offer unique experiences for families, so parents can enjoy the lovely setting while their children enjoy a variety of activities.
This year Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience takes place on 18- 19 November 2023 at Coetzenburg, Stellenbosch University. Entrants can choose between marathon and half-marathon races. Click here for more.
Food & wine
South Africa’s second oldest town is slowly surpassing its wine reputation to become a fully fledged gastronomic destination. If the promise of five wine routes, consisting of more than a hundred wineries, is not enough, a range of top-tier restaurants, wine bars, eateries, markets and food experiences are making this region that go-to destination for epicureans around the globe.
Outdoor sports and activities
Stellenbosch is a fantastic destination for those who love getting out in the open air, engaging in physical activity and appreciating the charms of Mother Nature, thanks to a combination of its natural geography and year-round clement weather. Enjoy outdoor pursuits in and around Stellenbosch; think hiking, cycling, running or golf. Read more.
Landmarks
From Oom Samie se Winkel to the Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, Stellenbosch’s to-do list is as plentiful as its sunny days. We offer our list of what to do in Stellenbosch for the time-smart traveller. Discover fine art, natural wonders, performing arts spaces and so much more.
Art
Stellenbosch boasts a high concentration of art museums and private galleries scattered across town, extending to wine estates and private gardens. You’ll find fine art in public and private spaces, along with blockbuster exhibitions like the Stellenbosch Triennale featuring contemporary art from Africa. Read more
Stay over
Make the most of your visit to Stellenbosch by staying over. With a range of fine hospitality establishments, there’s something for everyone. Here is our list of some of the hidden gems that justify a visit all by themselves.
Want to be part of our THINGS TO DO line-up? Send an email to digital@stellenboschvisio.co.za.