Less than an hour's drive from Cape Town is the beautiful area of the winelands, a mountainous region of incredible beauty with a rich cultural heritage and world renowned wines.
The area of Constantia is closest to the centre of Cape Town and can be an alternative base to enjoy the city from. Stellenbosch was established in 1679 and is the second oldest town in South Africa, after Cape Town, it is now a thriving and lively university town and the Stellenbosch Wine Route has 44 wine cellars.
Paarl is on the Berg River and has great hiking in the area. the Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve is dominated by 3 huge granite hills which glisten like pearls after rain (hence the name 'Paarl').
Franschhoek is one of the prettiest villages in the Cape area surrounded by mountains and vineyards.
There are several old houses and museums in the area which highlight the history and the Cape Dutch architecture of the region.
