In Stellenbosch, art doesn’t only live in the art galleries. Art can be seen, heard, felt, touched and tasted on our historic streets, in our award-winning restaurants and outdoors in nature.
Read on for where art can be experienced all over Stellenbosch.
Art
In and around Stellenbosch you’ll find many opportunities to drink in beauty and creative expression, whether it is a garden dedicated to sculpture or one of the many galleries exhibiting classic or work from emerging artists, you will find your fix.
ART GALLERIES
Spend the day browsing the many galleries around Stellenbosch, ideally situated in short walking distance from each other. After a day of browsing the galleries and shops of Stellenbosch, pop into one of our wine bars or coffee shops lining the streets of Stellenbosch for a refreshing glass of wine or a cup of coffee. Click here for our A – Z Wine Bar roundup. Wine bars in Stellenbosch from A – Z – Visit Stellenbosch
Here are a few of our favourite galleries:
Dylan Lewis Studio, Paradyskloof Road | T: 021 880 0054, W: www.dylanlewis.com
Gavin Collins Gallery, Church Street | T: 021 883 3018, W: www.gavincollins.co.za
GUS Gallery, Cnr. Bird and, Dorp Street | T: 021 808 3489, W: www.gus-gallery.co.za
IS Art Gallery, Dorp Street | T: 021 882 6909, W: www.is-art-gallery.com
SMAC Gallery, Church Street | T: 021 887 3607, W: www.smacgallery.com
Stephen Rautenbach, Church Street | T: 083 650 2608, W: www.stephenrautenbach.co.za
The Red Teapot Gallery, Chirch Street | T: 021 883 9582, W: www.portchie.com
Incidental free outdoor art
Step outside of the galleries and discover Stellenbosch outdoors art – a wealth of diversity and imagination that colour the historic oak-lined streets. Stellenbosch has earned a reputation as a premier art destination, and its 20 plus spectacular galleries are world-renowned, not to mention the well-curated collections of several wineries.
But the city and its surrounds have themselves become a living exhibition of art. Get your art fix and discover sculptures and installations on street corners, parks and gardens.
Next time you find yourself in the town, keep an eye open for Stellenbosch outdoors art – some are hard to miss while others blend seamlessly into the public spaces.
Click here to see where to spot the free art in the streets of our warmhearted town.
ART TOURS
Immerse yourself in the true beauty of Stellenbosch art by adding these art tours to your next excursion to Stellenbosch.
The Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden
Explore a sculpted indigenous garden featuring more than 60 works by Dylan Lewis. Unearth the wilderness within and visit this spectacular sculpture garden.
T: 021 880 0054, W: www.dylanlewis.com
Art on Foot | Stellenbosch on Foot
Join Stellenbosch on Foot for a Stellenbosch Art Tour as you make your way through the historic streets of Stellenbosch, visiting some art galleries and meet the artists.
T: 084 479 7262, W: www.stellenboschonfoot.co.za
Winelands Art Sips and Sights
For a full day excursion join a Winelands Art Tour and take in the sips and sights of Stellenbosch as you explore the cellars, sculpture gardens, museums and art studios of the Cape Winelands.
T: 083 227 7501, W: www.sipsandsights.co.za
Bronze Casting/Sculptures | Stellenbosch Art Foundry
Stellenbosch Art Foundry is a micro foundry that focuses on not only casting first class quality bronze’s but world class quality bronze sculptures. The Art Foundry showcases the art of bronze casting, allowing visitors to witness every step of the casting process.
T: 064 838 0479, W: www.stellenboschartfoundry.co.za
Guided Tours at the Rupert Museum
The Rupert Museum is home to a superb collection of Modern South African art collected from 1940 to early 2000s by the late Dr Anton Rupert and his wife Huberte Rupert.
T: 021 888 3344, W: www.rupertmuseum.org
Wine
Winemaking is most definitely an incredible form of art and science. Transforming beautifully grown grapes into world-renowned wine is a true masterpiece.
ART ON WINE FARMS
Is there any better way to enjoy a Winelands getaway than by sitting down to mouth-watering, gourmet dishes and a glass of award-winning wine at every possible mealtime? Definitely – that is, if you throw some local art and culture in there, too!
Savour a perfect pairing when hopping between these wine estates in Stellenbosch that showcases world-class wine and art.
Cavalli Estate
The Art and Light gallery situated on Cavalli Wine Estate seeks to celebrate local talent, featuring sculptures, paintings, and many other thought-provoking works of art that appeal to a variety of different tastes.
T: 021 855 3218, W: www.cavalliestate.com
Delaire Graff Estate
Marvel at the colourful blossoms and sprawling greenery at The Art and Gardens at Delaire Graff. The gardens are carefully maintained to reflect the changing seasons and are filled with artworks, sculptures, calming water features, and pools that sparkle in the warmth of the sunlight.
T: 021 885 8160, W: www.delaire.co.za
Glass Museum at Glenelly
May de Lencquesaing’s spectacular glass collection housed in the winery is one of the largest privately-owned collections in the world. The exhibits range from the 1st and 2nd Century to modern classics, including pieces by Salvador Dali and Lino Tagliapietra.
T: 021 809 6440, W: www.glenellyestate.com
Marvol Gallery at Hazendal
Get a closer look at classic Russian art, history, and culture at Marvol Gallery in Hazendal Wine Estate. The gallery features the estate owner’s extensive private collections and celebrates both Russian and South African classic and contemporary pieces.
T: 021 903 5034, W: www.hazendal.co.za
Muratie Wine Estate
An abbreviation for the Afrikaans modern kontemporêr (modern contemporary) Muratie’s MOK Gallery is focused on building cultural bridges through art. It acts as a platform for artists to communicate various political, cultural, and social messages to the public and is situated in Ansella’s house, dating back to 1685.
T: 021 865 2330, W: www.muratie.co.za
Food
Food is art and where better to experience wonderfully crafted cuisine than in our warm-hearted town? From fine dining to culture rich cuisine, you will taste it all.
FINE DINING RESTAURANTS
Wine and dine in style in Stellenbosch. Stellenbosch is not only considered the wine capital of South Africa, but also the culinary capital boasting with a long list of award-wining fine dining restaurants.
In our town
Dusk
A new, thought provoking fine dining restaurant concept by chefs Darren Badenhorst and Callan Austin. Guests can expect a 13 course tasting menu themed around hyper local produce and seasonality.
T: 02 1023 4100, W: www.duskrestaurant.co.za
Eike
Eike is nestled in an old historic building in the famous Dorp Street of Stellenbosch. Stellenbosch is also known as “Die Eikestad” – The Oak City. Eike celebrates traditional South-African cooking to it fullest by drawing inspiration from nostalgic food memories.
T: 078 373 94974, W: www.bertusbasson.com
Jardine Food and Wine Bar
Jardine Restaurant is located in the heart of Stellenbosch, close to the central shopping area. Owned by renowned chef, George Jardine, Jardine serves contemporary dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy an a la carte menu for lunch, or a three and five course set menu for dinner, paired with excellent local wine.
T: 021 886 5020, W: www.restaurantjardine.co.za
Post & Pepper
What started as a daydream turned into a full-blown upmarket restaurant in the heart of the historic town’s old Post Office. Rising chef and owner Jess van Dyk launches her solo restaurant venture with playful reimagined classics and traditional favourites taking you on a flavour packed journey of pure joy and utter deliciousness.
T: 021 203 5165, W: www.postandpepper.co.za
Spek & Bone
Spek & Bone is located at a historic site next to the original Stellenbosch market, behind Oom Samie se winkel. This small plates eatery and wine bar is a real hidden gem, tucked away just off Dorp Street.
T: +27 82 569 8958, W: www.bertusbasson.com
On our wine farms
Cavalli Wine & Stud Farm
Voted South Africas most Stylish restaurant at the “Eat Out” Awards, Cavalli restaurant has quickly established itself as a must-visit dining destination in the Cape Winelands, over looking a serene dam set against the backdrop of the magnificent Helderberg mountain range, and has quickly become a favourite among discerning foodies countrywide.
T: 021 855 3218, W: www.cavalliestate.com
Gåte Restaurant at Quoin Rock
The Norwegian origin of the word translates as ‘the entrance of a labyrinth’ or a ‘riddle’, symbolising a gateway to an extraordinary dining experience and a delightful puzzle to be decoded. Seating only 40 people, Gåte provides an intimate and inspiring fine dining experience as one of the best restaurants in Stellenbosch.
T: 021 888 4750, W: www.quoinrock.co.za
Indochine at Delaire Graff
Embark on a thrilling epicurean adventure with Head Chef Virgil Kahn at Indochine Restaurant. One of the earliest meeting points between East and West, Cape sailors returned from Asia’s spice lands with great riches, and it is these flavours that are celebrated at Indochine, together with the expression they found in South Africa’s Cape Malay cuisine.
T: 021 885 8160, W: www.delaire.co.za
Jordan Restaurant with Marthinus Ferreira
It’s all new at Jordan Restaurant since spring 2022 – a new star chef, a total refurb, and a name to match. Wine estate owner, Gary Jordan, once declared his two favourite chefs in the world were George Jardine and Marthinus Ferreira. Now Marthinus has taken over the reins of the newly re-vamped restaurant from George, bringing his own signature style. With global influences from years spent working abroad his sizzling new menu at Jordan Wine Estate merges classic flavours, innovation and flawless execution.
T: 021 881 3441, W: www.jordanwines.com
Rust en Vrede Restaurant
Since opening in 2007, the Rust en Vrede Restaurant has shaped the way we think about wine and food. Their aim is to show guests how a dining experience can be heightened by the combination of outstanding wine with excellent food. Chef Fabio Daniel serves contemporary French cuisine, adding his own unique flair taking inspiration from his Brazilian and Italian heritage.
T: 021 881 3757, W: www.rustenvrede.com
Culture
We all know South Africa is known as the Rainbow Nation, and you bet you can get a beautiful immersion into plenty of our diverse cultures in Stellenbosch.
CULTURAL WALKING TOURS
Bites & Sites Cultural Food Tours
Join the red apron! Guided walking tours that connect you to the heart and soul of Stellenbosch food. Explore the town centre with your insider guide. Sample authentic Cape flavours. Visit trendy artisans for various tastings. Discover African hospitality and the creativity of township life in “sweet home” Kayamandi.
T: 072 989 3438, W: www.bitesandsites.co.za
Pniël Cultural and Environmental Hiking Tours
Break away from the usual wine tasting to discover and explore the beauty of a small missionary town Pniel, close to Stellenbosch with a unforgettable scenic moderate hike in the mountains of the Dwarsriver valley.
T: 084 428 4620, W: www.pniel.co.za/cultural-tours
Stellenbosch on Foot
Join Stellenbosch on Foot and explore the “village of the oaks” with its shady oak avenues bordered by the water furrows of the Mill Stream. Admire the charm and harmony of the Cape Dutch Architecture and listen to tales about the colorful inhabitants of three centuries.
T: 084 479 7262, W: www.stellenboschonfoot.co.za
Township & Village | Township Tours / Stellenbosch Vlakte on Foot / Stellenbosch University Redress on Foot
Township and Village is a community-wide tourism initiative that welcomes visitors into the hearts and homes of the culture-rich communities that surround the beautiful winelands town of Stellenbosch. Explore, learn and participate in the vibrant day-to-day life of South Africans, through the eyes of resident tour guides and local community members.
T: 083 289 0818, W: www.stellenboschtownshipandvillage.co.za
HISTORICAL ACCOMMODATION ESTABLISHMENTS
Bonne Esperance Guest House
Bonne Esperance is a boutique guesthouse nestled in the charming enclave of Stellenbosch. The guesthouse is set in a Victorian villa that was built in 1901 and has retained its old-world charm with the welcome addition of modern comforts to ensure guests revel in a perfect stay. While staying here, guests have the perfect opportunity to relax in the superbly comfortable and convenient lodgings whilst enjoying the stunning surroundings that Stellenbosch has to offer.
T: 021 887 0225, W: www.bonneesperance.com
De Hoek Manor
Situated in the historic centre of the university town of Stellenbosch, De Hoek Manor is surrounded by National Heritage buildings and arguably boasts the best address in town. We offer luxury accommodation at great value and pride ourselves in our unrivalled hospitality and friendly yet discreet service.
T: 021 886 9988, W: www.getaway-gateway.com
Lanzerac Hotel
Steeped in a history dating back to 1692 and nestled in the foothills of the idyllic Jonkershoek Valley of Stellenbosch, Lanzerac is synonymous with old-world charm and rich Cape heritage. Experience the finest hospitality the Cape Winelands has to offer, indulging guests with warm and passionate service, the finest wine and cuisine and exquisitely styled rooms. The fifty-three en-suite bedrooms and suites at the Lanzerac Hotel & Spa invite complete relaxation amid welcoming interiors, which blend both period grandeur and contemporary style.
T: 021 887 1132, W: www.lanzerac.co.za
Oude Werf Hotel
Modern meets vintage at the oldest running hotel in South Africa. With a history spanning three centuries – it’s intimate luxury combined with chic antique style. Located in the heart of Stellenbosch in Church Street, it’s the perfect place to stay and explore.
T: 021 887 4608, W: www.oudewerf.co.za
River Manor
A little oasis in the very heart of historic Stellenbosch. Housed in two adjacent manor houses and set in a landscaped garden on the banks of the Eerste River, we offer discerning travellers an unforgettable experience with direct access to cultural experiences, breath-taking scenery and outdoor activities. Rooms and pause areas are tastefully furnished with a combination of Cape antique and contemporary designed furniture, and decorated in soft and natural tones.
T: 021 887 9944, W: www.manorhouse.co.za/river-manor
Outdoors
Experience art in the scenic outdoors. From guided walks in town exploring the beautiful buildings and history, mountain biking on kilometres of epic trails and hiking along the breathtaking vineyard slopes, the Stellenbosch outdoors offers art in its purest form.
HIKING
There are few better ways to get up close and personal with Stellenbosch’s famed natural beauty than by heading out on a hike. Whether you’re a total beginner or a well-versed outdoorsman (or woman), rest assured that there’s an abundance of trail options to choose from suited to a variety of different levels of fitness.
Not sure where to go or what to bring? Click here to read about what some of our avid local adventurers had to say about their personal hiking experiences.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Stellenbosch is an outdoor lovers’ playground. Whether you want to explore our beautiful town and surrounds by foot or bike, there is so much to offer.
We sat down with Conrad Stoltz, retired 7x World Triathlon Champion who competed for 24 years and has experienced some of the most iconic routes in the world, why he loves mountain biking in Stellenbosch.
After Conrad retired from competitive racing, he began to create and build mountain bike trails. It was his passion – now turned full time job. Click here to explore some amazing Mountain bike intel.
But wait, there’s more…
MTO Trails
Nestled between the high peaks of the Stellenbosch mountains, MTO Trails offers all types of outdoor enthusiasts with a world class trail network to explore and enjoy. Boasting over 48km of single track and 74km of forestry roads, you’ll have plenty of trails to choose from for hiking, trail running and mountain biking.
T: 082 688 7783, W: www.mtotrails.com
Dirtopia Trail Centre
Dirtopia Trail Centre is based on Muratie wine Farm, Knorhoek Road, R44 Stellenbosch.
Situated on the singletrack trail head of Simonsberg trail network, trail runners, hikers and mountain bikers can buy permit sales for a range of trails – you choose your distances in various loops.
T: 021 884 4752, W: www.dirtopia.co.za
Casa Cerveza Mountain Bike Tours
With so many places to see in and around Stellenbosch, why not enjoy them while taking a guided tour on your mountain bike with guides from the local community in Kayamandi? Experience something unique on all of our tours and see the beauty that is Stellenbosch, whether you want to see the town, or take a trip through the surrounding mountains.
T: 021 023 0346, W: www.casacerveza.co.za/pages/mountain-bike-tours
SAFARIS AND VINEYARD DRIVES
Game drive
Vredenheim Wine Estate
Climb aboard Vredenheim’s game drive vehicle for an experience of the estate like no other, taking you on a guided tour through game fields, cattle paddocks, vineyards, fruit orchards and alongside the Big Cats Park.
Your journey will take you into the heart of Vredenheim’s farming operations with a 2-hour educational tour to learn more about their game and cattle farming, wine and fruit production, and Big Cats Park sanctuary. An unmatched experience in the Stellenbosch winelands!
T: 021 881 3878, W: www.vredenheim.co.za
Wildlife Sanctuary Game drive
Villiera
Together with two neighbours Villiera set aside 230 Ha of land to form a Wildlife Sanctuary for game. These conservation efforts take place alongside a determined indigenous tree-planting project.
The Sanctuary includes 12 dams plus marsh areas which attract a huge variety of bird-life. A Game Drive through the 220 hectare Wildlife Sanctuary lasts approximately two hours. Visitors are guaranteed fantastic sightings of a diverse population of antelope & huge variety of birdlife.
T: 021 865 2002, W: www.villiera.com
Vineyard Drives
Jordan Wines
A 360° tasting experience of the vineyards at Jordan. Tour of the vineyards in an open safari-style game viewing Land Rover, with stops to experience the spectacular views of False and Table Bays as well as the flora and fauna of the Cape Winelands. Guests will experience the terroir and geology of the estate whilst tasting a selection of wines in the sustainably grown vineyards. This includes a cellar tour with additional wines to be tasted in the barrel cellar or on the terrace
T: 021 881 3441, W: www.jordanwines.com
Warwick
Great wine is made in the vineyards. Which is why trained safari guides will show you where the magic happens. Groups of up to eight can enjoy an open-top tour through our ‘big five’ vineyards (the grapes, not the animals), with MCC along the way. It’s also great for families, as the tour includes non-alcoholic options and soft drinks for the kids.
T: 021 884 4410, W: www.warwickwine.com
Waterford Estate
The Wine Drive Safari is a unique two to three-hour trip on a safari-type vehicle, through the 120-hectare Estate on the beautiful slopes of the Helderberg mountain. This experience allows you the chance to taste Waterford’s award-winning Estate wines amongst the vineyards of their origin, and you will be expertly guided through all the aspects of what makes this area so biologically diverse and viticulturally unique.
T: 021 880 5300, W: www.waterfordestate.co.za
