Diving straight into the many riveting outdoor adventures in Stellenbosch
There are countless incredible outdoor adventures in Stellenbosch to look forward to, even if you are only stopping by for a day. Get reacquainted with Mother Nature as you dine outside in the blissful sunshine, hop aboard an e-bike and buzz around a bustling wine farm, and lounge poolside taking in the astounding beauty of the mountainous landscape that envelopes this charming town.
Exploring the great outdoors in the Cape Winelands
Brekkie at Basic Bistro
Grab a steaming cup of coffee at the most local, most cosy ‘hidden gem’ in the heart of Stellenbosch that you will find, Basic Bistro, before the outdoor adventures in Stellenbosch begin. Start your morning with a plate full of freshness with The Spokesperson Brekkie; two poached eggs with avo, fresh tomato, a drizzle of olive oil & a squeeze of lemon or opt for something a little more substantial in the form of their famous Farmers Breakfast.
Visit www.basicbistro.co.za
Or contact +27 (0)21 883 3629 or info@basicbistro.co.za
Hop aboard an e-bike at the Adventure Shop
Of all the outdoor adventures in Stellenbosch, a half-day e-bike tour from Stellenbosch to Boschendal Wine Estate is at the very top of the list. Why? It is family-friendly for kids over 140cm tall, it promises breath-taking views of the most scenic valley in the Winelands, and it provides riders with the chance to spot plenty of wildlife up close, including Eland and Blue Wildebeest. The e-bike tour costs just R650 per person, which includes access to a tour guide, an e-bike, and transport back to Stellenbosch in the early afternoon.
Did you know that there is a massive, ever-growing cycling community in this special town? It’s true! After your exhilarating outdoor adventure has come to an end, simply follow the other cyclists and they will lead you to one of the best post-outdoors activity coffee spots in the area. There are a few to choose from as you will see below.
Where to grab a cuppa
Bootlegger
Situated in Ryneveld Street, Bootlegger is the place to go for those in search of a pick-me-up. The buzzy atmosphere is contagious, and the coffee shop is always full of enthusiastic cyclists swapping stories while enjoying the many mouth-watering brews and meals on the menu. While you can’t go wrong regardless of what you order, the killer Cortado is an absolute must-try. Pair it with a generous slice of soft, spongey banana bread for a match made in heaven!
Visit www.bootlegger.co.za
Or contact +27 (0) 21 433 2599 or info@bootlegger.co.za
De Warenmarkt
Waffles topped with a generous splash of golden syrup, steaming brews, pastries baked to perfection, and the best droëwors in town. Expect all this and more at De Warenmarkt. It is a cyclist hotspot due to its collection of bike racks for safe and convenient parking, generous side walks and tables and chairs on the pavement where it is possible to keep an eye on those prized bikes while you dine. Its incredible food and coffee offering is complemented by the restaurant’s old-world charm – it is located inside an 18th century historical building in Stellenbosch’s bustling cultural hub.
Visit www.dewarenmarkt.com
Orcontact +27 (0) 21 883 2274 or info@dewarenmarkt.com
Lanzerac Deli
Famed for its creamy cappuccinos and all-day farm-to-table breakfasts, the Lanzerac Deli is another coffee hotspot to consider. If you are setting off on your e-bike exploit from the Lanzerac E-Bike Trail Centre, you could pop in for a cuppa beforehand or venture back this way following your outdoor adventures in Stellenbosch. Top up that tummy with a diverse selection of homemade breads, pastries, gourmet sandwiches, cheese and charcuterie platters, omelettes, and more.
Visit www.lanzerac.co.za/estate-dining-and-bars/#_deli
Or contact +27 (0) 21 887 1132 or restaurants@lanzerac.co.za
Where to dine
Le Siemma Cafe Bistrot
Le Siemma Cafe Bistrot offers a wide variety of authentic French dishes in a casual seating. Croissant and coffee for breakfast or our traditional Croque Monsieur. Light bites to share, cheese and charcuterie platters, and a wild range of typical regional dishes from France. Wide selection of French and South African wines by glass, carafe or bottle.
Visit www.lesiemma.co.za
Or contact +27 (0) 21 493 4235 or info@lesiemma.co.za
Where to stay
Twice Central Guesthouse
Keen to stay in town right in the centre of the hustle and bustle? Then Twice Central Guesthouse is a great choice. Twice Central Guesthouse is a seven bedroom boutique guesthouse situated just off the historic Dorp Street in Stellenbosch. We pride ourselves in attention to detail, a modern, yet friendly atmosphere created by a committed team and the involvement of the three owners in the daily management of Twice Central. Guests rave about our breakfasts (read our reviews), the perfect start to a day of wine tasting, exploring the Winelands or just lounging by the pool.Our complimentary bicycles is a great way to explore the oak lined streets of Stellenbosch.
Visit www.twicecentral.co.za
Or contact +27 21 8877889 or reservations@twicecentral.co.za
Muratie Wine Farm – GP Canitz Guest Cottage
Oozing rustic charm, the GP Canitz Guest Cottage can be found on a historic farm that was originally the art studio of renowned painter, and previous owner, George Paul Canitz. Sit outside on the airy patio and observe the expansive beauty of the Simonsberg mountain range or hike or bike through the estate’s many winding trails. The Cottage is also home to the charming Farm Kitchen that serves up breakfast and lunch out on the terrace or inside the old cellar. Be sure to explore the MOK art gallery or wander over to the paddock to visit the friendly alpacas and donkeys some time during your stay.
Visit www.muratie.co.za/visit/accommodation/
Or contact +27 (0) 21 865 2330 or info@muratie.co.za
L’Avenir Country Lodge
The Simonsberg Mountains tower over the lovely 4-star L’Avenir Country Lodge, which is just a few minutes away from central Stellenbosch. Here, you will find impeccable hospitality, a rim-flow pool overlooking the dam, and plenty of birdlife. Guests can take advantage of flavourful home-cooked breakfasts on the deck out in the sunshine, a complimentary wine tasting, and a stroll through the many onsite hiking trails or the pristine vineyard showcase garden.
Visit www.lavenirestate.co.za/experience/#
Or contact +27 (0) 21 889 5001 or info@lavenir.co.za
