Things to do in Paarl

Looking for things to do in Paarl? The third-oldest settlement in SA, Paarl, has so much history and culture to offer visitors. But there is far more than that to this town. While the town is close enough for a day adventure – just an hour’s drive from Cape Town – you can also make a weekend of it. We have plenty to offer! Planning on visiting Paarl? Below are the top-rated things to do in Paarl.

Things to do in Paarl this weekend

Paarl Spice Route

Spice Route is an excellent destination for the whole family to enjoy and is particularly great for groups of friends or weekend outings. With chocolate and ice-cream tastings, beers, wine, restaurants, and a host of artisan offerings, it’s the perfect place to head for a day out in Paarl. It is also extremely picturesque and relaxed, making it especially ideal for weekend wandering.

Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve

Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve is a beautiful and tranquil spot in Paarl and is perfect to enjoy with the entire family. Walk through the garden, pack a picnic, or even set out to enjoy some exceptional birding or hiking nearby. What’s more, there are plenty of amazing flowers – including the majestic Proteas – to see too. The nature reserve is home to the second-biggest granite boulders in the world and offer incredible views across the Paarl valley. It truly is an outdoor haven. Just keep in mind that it can get busy at weekends and there is an entry fee for cars.

Paarl Historical Walk

The best way to see and learn about Paarl is to take a walk along our Main Road with the Paarl Historical Walk. Join the tour guide on a guided 1km walk along the longest and one of the best-preserved main streets in South Africa. The walk takes just over two hours and will have you hearing interesting stories and learning fascinating historical facts while taking in manor houses, slave churches and the oldest remaining working well in town. You’ll also learn about the famous oak trees that line the Streets. Make sure you visit the Ladies Bar in the historic Zomerlust Guesthouse. Tours are by appointment, and they are a wonderful way to get to know one of the best-preserved towns in South Africa.

Rhebokskloof Wine Estate

Rhebokskloof Wine Estate is one of the most family-friendly estates you will find anywhere. They offer a restaurant, picnic areas and wine tasting options. It is a welcoming and entertaining estate to visit and there’s always plenty to enjoy here. Two of their coolest activities are quad biking and horseback riding.

Wine Valley Adventures

Wine Valley Adventures quad biking allows guests to enjoy stunning views, while navigating several routes and even the obstacle course, too. The horse riding offers one-, two- or three-hour trails, led by experienced guides and enjoy uniquely exploring the estate.

Bean in Love

A good spot to get your caffeine fix is at Bean in Love. Situated in a historic building with three open-plan levels it’s a relaxing spot to sip on a cup of quality roasted coffee with beans coming from Guatemala, El Salvador, and Columbia to name a few. They serve hearty breakfasts and light meals, including sandwiches, quiches, burgers, fish cakes, wraps and pizza, along with cakes and treats. There is also a salad bar if you are looking for a healthy alternative.

Also, read the best things to do in Wellington 

Nederburg

As one of South Africa’s most esteemed estates, Nederburg is one that everyone has heard of – and for good reason. This quality estate, which is as beautiful as it is famous, offers a lovely restaurant, the Manor, excellent wine tastings and so much more to thrill visitors.

Afrikaans Language Monument

Afrikaans might be the world’s youngest language, but the development of Afrikaans was a process and had an interesting history.  Experience this history at the iconic 13,5-metre-high Afrikaans Language Monument on top of Paarl Mountain. It was designed by architect Jan van Wijk who found his inspiration in the round granite rocks in Paarl. It was completed by the end of 1974.

Dine at Noop

If you want to dine local and with passion, Noop is the place to be. Situated on our main road Noop Restaurant supports local suppliers as far as possible, and they do not over-elaborate or unnecessaroad, complicate recipes.  The people of Noop respect the purity of the ingredients.

Statue of Nelson Mandela

Visit an iconic statue of an iconic man. The bronze statue of Nelson Mandela in front of the Drakenstein Correctional Services is symbolic of an important part of our country’s heritage. The statue stands tall at the prison gates, depicting Madiba on the day of his release from the prison just outside Paarl. Madiba walked triumphantly through the gates of the prison on 11 February 1990 making it one of the most significant dates in our country’s heritage.

Amberg Art & Kitchen

Tucked away in the Du Toitskloof Pass, Amberg Art & Kitchen offers a laid-back approach to dining with breathtaking views of the Paarl valley. The family-run restaurant serves hearty meals with a strong Austrian and international culinary influence, catering for all tastes.

Alpaca Loom, Paarl

Looking for a unique activity? It does not get more exciting than the Alpaca Loom in Paarl. Indigenous to Peru, we are lucky enough to have a herd of these beautiful animals in our backyard. You can shop for exquisite handmade alpaca products and watch the weaver’s handcraft alpaca wool into products like scarves, shawls, blankets, and rugs. Spend your day petting alpacas and learning about these incredible animals.

For more information visit www.paarlonline.com or follow @Visit Paarl on social media.

Images supplied.