Looking for the best family-friendly things to do in Stellenbosch? Read on…
The second oldest town in South Africa, Stellenbosch is a picturesque town in the Western Cape, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and historic charm. Approximately 45 minutes from Cape Town, it is surrounded by rolling vineyards and majestic mountains in the heart of the Cape Winelands. The town’s well-preserved Cape Dutch architecture, oak-lined streets, and prestigious Stellenbosch University contribute to its charm and allure. There are many family-friendly things to do in Stellenbosch and we spent a day discovering them.
Village Museum Garden
A bit of history
Stellenbosch was named after Simon van der Stel, who was the governor of the Cape Colony at the time. The town was established in 1679 when Van der Stel decided to create a new settlement in the fertile Eerste River Valley. He named the town “Stellenbosch,” which means “Van der Stel’s Bush” in Dutch. The area rapidly grew into an important agricultural hub, known for its fertile soil and favourable climate.
8 best family-friendly things to do in Stellenbosch
1. Stroll through the town
Public sculpture in Stellenbosch
Strolling through the town of Stellenbosch is like stepping into a living postcard, with its oak-lined streets, historic Cape Dutch architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. As you wander through the town, you’ll see charming cafes, boutique shops, art galleries, university buildings and other well-preserved structures dating back to the 18th century. Numerous public gardens and shaded parks invite you to relax and enjoy the serene environment. The town is dotted with public artworks, so keep an eye out for them too.
2. Visit the Village Museum
Bedroom in Village Museum
Our first stop was the Village Museum, a collection of four historic houses, each furnished to depict a different period. The first one is Schreuderhuis – the oldest restored town house in South Africa, which was built in 1709. The second house is Blettermanhuis which was built in 1789. The third one is Grosvenor House which was built in 1782, and the last house is OM Berghhuis which was built in 1850.The houses have fascinating period décor and relics from the past and are surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Old fire engine in Village Museum
Each house has a hostess dressed in period costume, who will tell you about the house, and the people who lived there.
Hostess in period costume in Village Museum
We spent some time relaxing in the garden at Schreuderhuis, where we spotted ducks and turkeys at the pond.
3. Explore the Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden
Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden
Our second stop was Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, the oldest university botanical garden in South Africa, which provided welcome relief from the heat. Located in the town centre, this garden has a diverse collection of plants, including a vast bonsai collection, cycads, herb and flower gardens and greenhouses filled with arid and tropical plants. The water lily pond, water features, and benches enhance the garden’s beauty.
4. Shop at the markets
Market at Blaauwklippen
The scenic beauty of Stellenbosch provides the perfect setting for vibrant outdoor markets. One of them is the Blaauwklippen Family Market, which is open on Saturdays and Sundays. It features seasonal offerings focusing on local, organic, and sustainable foods, produce, and goods. Although we weren’t there on a weekend, the popular Kamers Makers market (which was actually founded at a Stellenbosch house in 2003) was being held at the Blaauwklippen Estate at the time.
Shortly after our visit, a tragic fire broke out at the estate, destroying some of its historic buildings.
If you have more time in Stellenbosch, then…
5.Go hiking
Jonkershoek Nature Reserve (Wikimedia Commons)
Stellenbosch is surrounded by mountains and nature reserves making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Jonkershoek Nature Reserve has a variety of hiking trails that wind through lush forests, alongside clear streams, and up to panoramic mountain viewpoints. Another popular spot is the Paradyskloof area, which offers scenic routes through lush forests and fynbos-covered hills.
6. Admire art at the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden
Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden (Image cc: Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden)
The Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden is a fascinating 7-hectare outdoor gallery showcasing over 60 sculptures by the acclaimed artist Dylan Lewis. This meticulously sculpted landscape seamlessly blends art with nature, featuring winding paths that lead visitors through a labyrinth of indigenous flora and striking bronze sculptures. The garden’s design has a Japanese influence and incorporates elements of the Cape’s natural beauty.
7. Discover the Toy and Miniature Museum
Toy and Miniature Museum
Kids will love the Stellenbosch Toy and Miniature Museum which houses an impressive collection of antique toys, dolls, and miniature models, as well as a detailed, lifelike miniature model of the iconic Blue Train, which travels through the Lilliputian landscape.
8. Pick strawberries (in season)
Strawberry Picking (cc: Deposit Photos)
Strawberry picking at Polkadraai Farm is a fun activity for families. Nestled in the scenic countryside near Stellenbosch, this charming farm offers the opportunity to handpick your own fresh strawberries straight from the fields. Equipped with colourful baskets, visitors can roam the rows of strawberry plants, selecting the juiciest berries to take home. The farm also has other fun activities for children, including tractor rides, pony rides, mini golf, and a playground, as well as a farm stall stocked with a variety of fresh produce, homemade jams, and other treats.
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 49 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
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