Paarl South Africa | Travel to Paarl

Paarl means 'pearl' in Dutch and it is easy to see how this town earned its name. Situated amongst majestic mountains, vineyards and rivers this scenic paradise is a fantastic holiday destination. Situated a mere half hour drive from the Cape Town CBD, Paarl is a 'must visit' on your Cape Town Holiday.

A Historical Town

Paarl is South Africa's third oldest town and boasts an array of cultural and historical attractions. It was here where the foundations of Afrikaans, one of South Africa's eleven official languages, were laid. Afrikaans is the Dutch word for African and is basically the African form of the Dutch language. The "Afrikaanse Taalmonument" is a monument situated on the slopes of the Paarl Mountain, dedicated to the language, its origins and the culture associated with it. The Language Museum is another testament to Afrikaans and provides an extremely interesting look into the language. There are several historic walks around this beautiful town. See one of the oldest churches in South Africa, visit the Paarl Museum and take in some of the most gorgeous architectural delights for which the town is well known.

The Red Route

Fondly referred to as the Red Route, the Paarl Wine Route has earned international acclaim for its excellent Cabernet Sauvignon, port and Shiraz wines. The area is home to several wine estates, the most famous of all being KWV. The wines produced by KWV are some of the most exported of all South African wines and once you have been to a wine tasting at this estate you’ll know why. Several of the Paarl wine estates offer tours, tasting sessions and opportunities to purchase wines. Most estates also have stunning restaurants and after a morning of sampling some of the worlds greatest wines what could be better than excellent cuisine at a table set in one of South Africa’s most picturesque locations.
Wine cellars along the Paarl Red Route include Ashanti, Backsberg Estate, Fairview Estate, KWV International, Nederburg, Nelsons Creek Wine Estate, Simonsvlei and Vendome Wine Estate.

Golfing in Paarl

Cape Town is renowned for being one of South Africa's golfing hotspots; the two fantastic golf courses in Paarl are a testament to this. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the Pearl Valley Signature Golf Estate & Spa is surrounded by mountains and vineyards. This 18-hole Parklands course is home to some of the most breathtaking views and great golfing opportunities. The Boschenmeer Golf Course in Paarl is the Western Cape's first 27-hole course and was designed by golf guru David Frost. This championship course is challenging but not impossible and offers a first class golfing experience. Golfing enthusiasts will love Paarl's two incredible courses for the golf as well as the beauty in which they are situated.
Read more information on golfing in Paarl

Natural Delights

Set in an immaculate indoor garden, Butterfly World is the largest free flying park for butterflies in Southern Africa. Whilst meandering around the garden you will see hundreds of these colourful and beautiful creatures. The Schmetterling Coffee Garden is a fantastic place to enjoy mid morning tea. Sample a range of fresh cakes whilst butterflies of every hue imaginable flutter past.
With over 140 different species of bird and waterfowl the Paarl Bird Sanctuary will delight to birding enthusiasts. The crocodile farm and the snake park are also firm favourites amongst visitors to the area. The Paarl Mountain provides endless hours of entertainment to hikers, walkers and mountain bikers looking to catch a glimpse of the winelands from the top. Rock climbers are drawn to the Paarl Rock, a challenging yet highly rewarding climb. The Millwater Flower Garden is another of Paarl's natural delights - here you can see many different species of Fynbos and Protea. Anglers love Paarl's river, the Breede, for its excellent Trout and Bass fishing.

Awesome Scenery

The exquisite Paarl Winelands area lends itself to scenic walks, hikes and drives. The many scenic routes will take you along the mountains and into the valleys. For the best view of the gorgeous area why not book a hot air balloon trip. Quietly soar over the magnificent Berg River Valley and enjoy breathtaking views of the Western Cape Winelands.

Fantastic Paarl Accommodation

Oak Tree Lodge is a renowned Cape Town Guesthouse/ Boutique Hotel centrally located in the historical Cape Winelands town of Paarl. Oak Tree Lodge is ideally, situated for tourists in search of a memorable holiday in the Paarl Winelands.
Book your accommodation at the Oak Tree Lodge in Paarl.