Paarl
Description
Paarl is the third oldest European settlement in South Africa, and the largest town in the Cape Winelands. It is located just 45 minutes’ drive from Cape Town, in the Western Cape. Paarl is known for its scenic countryside beauty, excellent wineries, trendy coffee shops, incredible architecture, and fruit growing heritage. Scroll down to view our wide range of Paarl accommodation.
Paarl’s abundance of fertile soil and its Mediterranean-like climate provides perfect conditions for farming. Famous the world over for its exclusive wine route, Paarl offers everything from Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage, to Shiraz, Chenin Blanc, and Chardonnay. Known as the “Red Routeâ€, Paarl features over 25 cellars including Backsberg Estate, KWV, Nederburg, Nelsons Creek, Simonsvlei, and Avondale, where visitors can enjoy delicious wine tastings in a breath-taking setting.
The quiet town of Paarl has a rich history. It holds international claim to fame for when Nelson Mandela walked out of the Victor Verster Correction Centre (now Drakenstein Correctional Centre), ending 27 years of imprisonment. This moment was known as the beginning of South Africa’s fight to the post-apartheid era. Today, visitors can see a bronze statue of Nelson Mandela standing outside the prison. Other historical points of interest include Paarl’s magnificent architecture. The town features many well maintained Cape Dutch, Georgian, and Victorian buildings, nestled within ancient oak lined streets. Be sure to visit Strooidak Church - the oldest Dutch Reformed Church in South Africa, Die Oude Pastorie Museum, the Patriot Building, Cathedral Cellar, and the Paarl Museum.
There are numerous natural attractions that act as huge draw cards for visitors to Paarl. First and foremost, Paarl Rock, a huge granite rock formation acts as a major landmark for Paarl. The rock is now a popular attraction for rock climbers. In addition, Paarl boasts a number of nature reserves such as Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Limietberg Nature Reserve, and Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve, which are all well worth a visit.
Paarl holds claim to a unique cultural attraction in that it was the place where the foundations of the Afrikaans language were formed by the Genootskap van Regte Afrikaners. The Afrikaanse Taalmonument (monument to the Afrikaans language) on the slopes of Paarl Mountain, the Taalmuseum (Language Museum), and the Afrikaans Language Route are all memorials that commemorate this achievement.
Other activities to enjoy in Paarl include hiking, hot air ballooning, carriage rides around Rhebokskloof Estate, scenic drives, golfing, and shopping at Paarl Mall. Attractions that are not to be missed are the Drakenstein Lion Park, Fairview Wine and Cheese Estate, Butterfly World, Wijnland Auto Museum, DV Artisan Chocolate, and La Bonheur Crocodile Farm located in Paarl’s surrounds.
Experience all that Paarl has to offer by booking one of the following fantastic accommodations available in the area.
