Paarlis the third oldest town in South Africa and is located in the Cape Winelands region of the Western Cape. Being the largest town within the Cape Winelands, Paarl has many activities and attractions to offer. Only 60kms from the hub of the country, Cape Town, makes Paarl easily accessible to those travelling from other countries and regions. Paarl is renowned for its scenic beauty mixed with its great viticulture and fruit growing heritage.
Paarl is a premier tourist attraction for those wishing to experience wine country. Like most towns situated in the Cape Winelands, Paarl is part of an affluent community, with neat well-maintained and striking Cape Dutch houses, manicured gardens and oak-lined streets. A charming example of a Cape Dutch manor can be seen on the well-known Nederburg wine estate. Completed in 1800, this H-shaped homestead has a beautifully proportioned Cape Dutch gable and is fitted with yellow wood shutters, beams and doors.
Paarl’s national claim to fame is being the birthplace of Afrikaans as a written language. A group of locals in 1876, ‘Die Genootskap van Regte Afrikaners’ (The Society of True Afrikaners) first printed the language here. This historical event is memorialised in the Afrikaans Language Monument and Museum located on the slopes of Paarl Mountain.
A wondrous feature of Paarl is Paarl Rock - a massive granite rock formed by three outcrops which make up Paarl Mountain. Situated in the Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve, Paarl Rock is made up of intrusive igneous rock and provides perfect hiking contours with views stretching out over the town - a firm favourite with nature lovers, hikers and birders.
With a slightly more Mediterranean climate, Paarl has pretty summer days with its rainy season occurring in the winter months.
Paarl is a popular tourist destination with a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. Whether you are looking for a hotel, guest house, self-catering apartment or caravan park, there is plenty of choice available in Paarl. From luxury 5-star hotels to rustic guest houses nestled in the vineyards, you will find something to suit your needs and budget.
Some of the things to do and see in Paarl are as follows:
Paarl Rock
Abseil Paarl Rock
Afrikaans Language Museum and Monument
Berg River Resort - tranquil setting for camping and activities for children of all ages
Boschenmeer Golf Estate
Pearl Valley Golf
Cape Historical Tours - guided tour in town
DV Artisan Chocolate - artisanal chocolate making
Graceland Activities Klein Dennegeur Farm - family orientated venue of fun activities including waterslides, indoor and outdoor play parks, farm animal encounters
Het Gesticht Museum - charming little church built in 1813
Le Bonheur Crocodile Farm - situated in the scenic Paarl Winelands where over 200 farm bred Nile Crocodiles are on view
Nederburg Wines
Paarl Mall
Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve
Picnics - various locations
Simonsvlei Winery
Spice Route - reflects what the vineyard, the wines and the people are all about
Paarl solo adventure: 10 must-see sights for independent travelers
Paarl Rock: Dominating the skyline, Paarl Rock is a geological marvel and a hiker's paradise. Challenge yourself to conquer its granite slopes and be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and valleys.
Historic Main Street: Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street and immerse yourself in Paarl's colonial past. Admire the Cape Dutch architecture, browse quaint boutiques, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere of this charming thoroughfare.
Afrikaans Language Monument: A symbol of cultural heritage, the Afrikaans Language Monument pays homage to the Afrikaans language and its role in South African identity. Explore its striking design and learn about the language's rich history through interactive exhibits.
Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve: Escape the hustle and bustle of the town and venture into the tranquil embrace of Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve. Hike through indigenous fynbos, spot diverse birdlife, and savor moments of serenity amidst nature.
Spice Route Destination: Indulge your senses at the Spice Route Destination, where gastronomy meets artisanal craftsmanship. Sample gourmet delights, sip on award-winning wines, and discover local artisans showcasing their talents.
Fairview Wine and Cheese Estate: Embark on a culinary journey at Fairview Wine and Cheese Estate, where wine and cheese tastings tantalize the taste buds. Wander through picturesque vineyards and enjoy sweeping views of the Paarl Valley.
Taal Monument Gardens: Find tranquility amid landscaped gardens at the Taal Monument. Pack a picnic and unwind amidst the beauty of indigenous flora, with the iconic monument as a backdrop.
Rhebokskloof Wine Estate: Discover the art of winemaking at Rhebokskloof Wine Estate. Join a cellar tour, sample award-winning wines, and savor farm-to-table cuisine at the estate's restaurant.
Paarl Museum: Delve into Paarl's storied past at the Paarl Museum. Housed in an elegant Cape Dutch building, the museum showcases artifacts and exhibits tracing the town's history from pre-colonial times to the present day.
Drakenstein Lion Park: Support conservation efforts at the Drakenstein Lion Park, home to rescued lions and other big cats. Take a guided tour, learn about wildlife conservation, and witness these majestic creatures up close.
We hope you have found this an interesting read on Paarl – should you wish to add any information or contribute an interesting Paarl holiday experience please email us at: