Stellenbosch itself is a gem of a town and hidden treasures are nestled throughout to be discovered and guaranteed to provide you with delightful experiences. We have uncovered a few secret gems for you to explore.
Hillcrest Berry Farm
Hillcrest Berry Farm is a spectacular restaurant and farm shop overlooking the berry orchards and a panoramic view of the valley with the Groot Drakenstein and Jonkershoek Mountains, as well as the Banhoek Nature Reserve. In summer you can sit outside on the terrace in the tea garden, or snuggle up inside with the heat of the vintage fireplace in winter. Keep an eye out for the snow-covered peaks from the nearby mountains during the colder winter months.
The restaurant offers a wholesome menu including breakfast, lunch, and a high tea option. All items are prepared using organic products. The daily fresh scones and baked cheesecakes are so scrumptious! The farm shop displays a wide selection of quality products, such as jams and fresh berries, do not forget to buy a few jams on your way home!
Google 4,4 /5 ★ | Tripadvisor 4 / 5 ★
Banhoek Chilli Oil Company and Waterfall Hike
If pizza and some chilli spice are your love language, then Banhoek Chilli Oil Company is exactly where you need to be! Here you can find the Restaurant and Tasting Menu. It is a relaxed atmosphere that offers the option to do a chilli oil tasting alongside delicious pizzas.
Before your meal at the restaurant, you can consider exploring the Banhoek Valley and the Hidden Waterfall hiking trail. It is situated within the Banhoek Conservancy. The hike is relatively easy and achievable for people with an average fitness level. There is one part where you would need to hold onto a chain to move yourself sideways across the boulder. The hike is guaranteed to provide lots of adventure and breathtaking views. You also stand the chance to spot some wildlife, like elande and tortoises. It would be best to download the map in advance to stay on track and be prepared for a 2 to 4-hour hike. It is a free entry for you to make unforgettable memories. Unfortunately, no pets are allowed.
Google 4,6 / 5 ★| Tripadvisor 4,5 / 5 ★
Ceramic painting
The Pottery is located in the heart of town and is for anyone who wants to get a little creative. This activity can be enjoyed by all ages. You need to get crafty and let your imagination run wild and have fun. Enjoy the menu items whilst you paint.
You select any item of pottery from the shelves, including mugs, platters, bowls, and trinket dishes. The friendly staff will supply you with a box of vibrant paints, brushes, stencils, and pencils. Once you are finished, you leave your item. The Pottery will dip and glaze your item at the store and fire the pottery in their kilns. You will be notified within 7-10 days to collect your masterpiece.
The prices are determined by the size of the items, ranging from R150 to R600. All the paints and glazing are included in the price.
Google 4,7 / 5 ★
Botanical Garden
The Stellenbosch Botanical Gardens are located in the centre of Stellenbosch and is the oldest university botanical garden based in South Africa. These gardens offer a huge variety of plants that are native to SA and some which are foreign. You can enjoy coffee or a light lunch at the Katjiepiering Restaurant or you can have a picnic at the assigned Picnic Lawn. Immerse all of your senses and don’t forget to take beautiful photos!
The garden is open every day, 8:00 am – 17:00 pm. Prices for adults are R15 and Seniors are R10.
Google 4,6 / 5 ★ | Tripadvisor 4,5 / 5 ★
4tea To Be Bubble Tea
4Tea To Be is a Bubble tea and Asian treat cafe with a very calming atmosphere and beautiful interior. They offer a wide selection of delicious and refreshing drinks that are originally from Asia. Bubble tea is prepared using ingredients such as green tea, coconut milk, fresh fruits, handmade jams, and syrups. The signature chewy texture is the handmade tapioca pearls. At 4Tea, you can choose to replace the sugar with agave or honey or go completely sugar-free.
Google 4,9 / 5 ★
Monarch Coffee Shop
Are you a big coffee drinker or a coffee enthusiast? At Monarch, you can do a coffee tasting! You will have the chance to sample all three of their exceptional house blends and their limited edition blend which has been carefully roasted and created to introduce your palate to new flavours. You will discover the fascinating history, secrets, and traditions of coffee. Be sure not to miss out on this exciting opportunity! The tasting is R60.00 per person.
Google 4,5/5 ★
These few secret gems should be embraced to create remarkable experiences. From the organic delights at Hillcrest Berry Farm to the excitement of the Chilli oil tastings and waterfall hikes at Banhoek, the creative pottery painting, the sensory journey through the botanical gardens, the irresistible bubble tea flavours, and coffee aromas… There is bound to be a secret gem for everyone.
