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Here’s how to celebrate Christmas like a true Capetonian

It just so happens that Christmas falls squarely in the middle of the South African summer, and as a result veers quite far from the traditional Western notion of a white Christmas. No snowmen, no eggnog, no landscapes blanketed in snow. But that’s not to say that we don’t have our own traditions! As we head into the festive season we’ve racked our brains for some of our favourites way to celebrate that Christmas feeling in Cape Town.

A classic Christmas braai

Holidays Braai’s

Braais (barbeques) are a hot favourite all year around (excuse the pun), but they’re especially synonymous with the festive season. While the traditional Christmas scene is that of egg nog around the fireplace, the South African version is somewhat better suited to the typically hot weather: a braai around the pool.

Cape Town Festival of Lights

Every Capetonian will recall the drive through the Adderley Festival of Lights with nostalgia as a classic childhood Christmas memory. On the first Sunday of December, the Christmas lights along Adderley street are switched on with great fanfare. The Festival of Lights marks the day that the major turns on hundreds of festive lights in the city centre, followed by a huge free street party. 2019 marks the 50th anniversary of this special tradition, so this year will be bigger than ever. You can expect stalls lining the streets with everything from snacks to Christmas gifts. At around mid-day, a live concert commences, featuring the likes of Sho Madjozi and the Ndlovu Youth Choir. As soon as the sun dips below the horizon, the Christmas lights are switched on. If ever there was an event to kick off the Christmas spirit, it is this one!

Cape Town’s beaches offer the perfect holiday season setting

Swap Snowmen for Sand Castles

Thanks to the hot weather around Christmas time, much of the holiday season is centred around the beach. Plan in a good few beach days around Christmas, and be sure to get there early because every one else will be making their way to the beach too (the beach culture runs strong in Cape Town!). Instead of building the classical snowman, you can spend your day revelling in the sunshine, building sandcastles. Don’t forget to bring the seasonal favourite snack, a watermelon, the traces of which are easily washed off with a quick dip in the ocean.

Carols by glowstick light at Kirstenbosch Gardens

Carols by Candlelight

Nothing gets you into the festive spirit quite like Christmas carols! Carols by Candlelight is a hugely popular event that takes place every year in Kirstenbosch Gardens. Imagine the melodic sounds of Christmas carols and picture the hundreds of glow stick lights in the beautiful garden setting and you’ll get an idea of what you can expect. Families come together to picnic on the luscious Kirstenbosch lawns, before the sun sets. As the dusk comes on, glow sticks are handed out and the carols begin. This year, the event will also host several Christmas-themed pop-up stalls, featuring everything from festive headgear to stocking fillers and tree decorations. This year Carols By Candlelight takes place on the 12th, 13th, 14th and 15th of December, and marks the 31st anniversary of the event. Be sure to book your tickets in time!

South African Christmas Pudding

No Christmas is complete without a traditional Christmas dessert. In South Africa, this means Malva pudding and a unique South African take on the traditional British trifle. Malva pudding has a sticky, caramelized texture and is made using apricot jam and vinegar. The pudding is traditionally topped with custard.

Local Christmas Markets

What better way to get started on Christmas shopping than to dodge the mall madness and browse at the local markets. It’ll get you into the Christmas mood, make for a far more pleasant shopping experience and you’ll be supporting local businesses too! From the Potters market which offers beautiful locally crafted ceramics, to various craft and gift fairs, you’re sure to find unique and original gifts for your loved ones.

Cape Town Minstrel Carnival

This carnival might not strictly form part of Christmas time, but it’s a thoroughly Capetonian holiday tradition. On the second of January, the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (better known amongst locals as “die Kaapse Klopse”) explode onto the streets of the Mother City in a flurry of colourful costumes, thumping drumbeats and song, for a street parade called Tweede Nuwe Jaar (Second New Year). Throngs of Capetonians hit the street to take in the vibrant show that the Kaapse Klopse troupes put on. The history of the Carnival runs deep, and has its roots in the colonial era, when most people of colours in South Africa were enslaved. Slaves were given a single day a year off, namely the second of January, when their masters were recovering from the previous night’s debauchery. They made the most of this day off and celebrated it by dressing up, dancing and playing music. Many of the songs still sung today date back to the 1800s. To watch this incredible parade, you can find yourself a place among hundreds of other spectators along their 7km route from Keizersgracht street to Rose Street in Bo-Kaap.

So if you’re looking to exchange an icy winter for a blistering summer this festive season, don’t fear, there are plenty of ways to keep that Christmas spirit in Cape Town!

Hiring a car can sometimes seem more complicated than it should be! If it’s your first time, the process of hiring and navigating the terms and conditions is time-consuming and confusing. To combat this, we’ve gathered some important points to take note of around hiring your holiday vehicle. Considering it’s our area of expertise, we’d like to think that we have some valuable insights into getting ready to hire a car. We’ve tried to make it somewhat more easily readable than our hire guide and Terms and Conditions, but if you’d like to get stuck into those, you can do that here.

Your keys to adventure!

Hiring with multiple drivers

If you’re travelling as a family or with a group of friends, you might want to switch drivers, especially when you’re driving long distances! Our policy allows you to select up to three additional drivers. The first additional driver can be added free of charge, and for the second and third additional driver you will be charged R300 per driver. It’s important to note that the initial hirer will be liable for any risks or charges associated with the usage of the vehicle by any nominated additional driver.

Fulfilling all driver requirements

For safety reasons, there are several requirements that the driver of the vehicle must fulfill (this also applies to nominated additional drivers, not just the hirer). Drivers must be a minimum of twenty-three years old on the start date of the vehicle hire. All drivers must have a valid driver’s license and, importantly, they need to be valid for a minimum of two years. When purchasing an international driver’s license you can choose between a one-year or a two-year one, so be sure to pick the two-year option. All international driver’s licenses have to be translated into English!

You’ll need an embossed credit card to complete the booking.

The embossed credit card

Many car hire companies, including us at Vineyard Car Hire, will only accept payment by an embossed credit card. This means that the digits on the credit card have to be raised. While this may seem like an inconvenience, it’s essentially to protect both you, the hirer, as well as the car hire company from fraud. The embossed credit card allows a physical imprint to be made of the card, as evidence that the credit card was present when the transaction was made. The imprint, together with a signature, is unique and cannot be replicated. In the event that the hirer should accuse the hiring company of fraudulently using their credit card, the company will have physical evidence to dispute this. In the case that you don’t have an embossed credit card and would like to use someone else’s, that person will then be the hirer of the car and will have to be present when the transaction takes place.

Make your trip easier by having your vehicle delivered and collected!

Vehicle delivery & collection`

Make the most of our free vehicle delivery service! You can make your life a whole lot easier by having the car dropped off wherever you happen to be in Cape Town. Take the time to familiarize yourself with our free delivery hours & areas, or pay a small fee out-of-hours fee. Within office hours, Vineyard Car Hire delivers anywhere in the City Bowl and southern suburbs free of charge, for any bookings for a period of three days or longer. Airport deliveries are free of charge between 7am and 7pm. Out-of-office-hour delivery fees do not exceed R275 and airport collection of the vehicle will cost R200. If you’re planning a one-way roadtrip and want to leave the car at your destination, a one-way drop-off fee will be charged. All you need to do is pre-arrange the return city or town with us beforehand.

Navigating the T’s & C’s of the insurance

This is the important bit! Make sure you have complete peace of mind by ensuring that you’re adequately covered. Our quoted rates include a Standard Cover insurance plus and excess which will be paid by you, the hirer, in the event of an accident or theft. If you have a lump sum saved up that would cover the excess, then Standard Cover should suffice for you. If that is not the case, it may be wise to consider the Super Cover, which comes at an additional cost but will either reduce or waiver the excess amount. There is a list of exclusions that insurance does not cover (such as driving in contravention of the law or in a race!) which is worth taking a look over.

Complete the vehicle checklist

On the handover of the vehicle you will be presented with a checklist to make notes of any existing damage on the vehicle. Take your time to carefully look over the vehicle together with the Vineyard Car Hire representative. Once you agree that all existing damages have been identified, both parties will sign the document. You will be liable for any variances in the vehicle from the checklist on return of the vehicle, so be sure to be thorough and don’t rush the examination.

We’ve highlighted some of the most important things to be aware of before hiring your car, but you’d be well-advised taking a good look over the Terms and Conditions too. If you have any questions whatsoever, we’re always available to answer them! You can email us at info@new.vineyardcarhire.co.za or give us a call at (+27) 21 761 0671 and we’ll do what we can to help!

Your guide to exploring this gem in the Deep South

Far beyond the leafy suburbs of southern Cape Town lies a quaint naval town that offers the perfect day escape from the city. The town is rich in history and boasts beautiful Cape Dutch architecture along the M4 (this stretch is rather aptly also known as the historical mile) that winds through the town. The historical mile wraps around a gorgeous bay that is home to the South African Navy’s Naval Base and pristine beaches with crystal clear blue water.

Enjoy the scenery from Chapman’s Peak Drive on your way there

How to get there

The drive alone makes this day trip worth the while! If you’re coming from Cape Town’s CBD, we recommend driving through Camps Bay over Victoria Drive which offers jaw-dropping views, before winding your way through to Constantia and Lakeside onto the M4.

The M4 passes through the charming seaside towns of Muizenberg, Kalk Bay and Fishhoek, before reaching Simon’s Town.

Where to eat

There’s a lot to choose from in terms of restaurants in Simon’s Town, but you’ll want to go someplace that offers the local specialty: seafood and fish!

A local favourite with a deliciously fresh menu is the Lighthouse Café. The Lighthouse café draws you in with its light and airy beach house décor and keeps you coming back with its friendly service and mouthwatering menu. From juicy mussels to burgers to excellent vegetarian options, the Lighthouse Café has something for everyone.

If you’re just after a good coffee and snack, head to Café Penguino, which is conveniently located right next to a souvenir shop. The family-owned café serves a good coffee and breakfast, that you can enjoy at their quaint tables on the sidewalk outside the café while watching the world go by, or on their veranda which also get a lot of light.

To round off your meal, or afternoon at the beach, head to JB’s Ice Cream Parlour. With its traditional, old-world charm and wide range of exciting, delicious gelatos, sorbets and soft serves, JB’s may be one of the best ice cream joints in the deep south. What’s more, it’s owned & run by Mr JB himself. Be sure to try the salted peanut brittle icea cream – you won’t regret it!

Meet the famous (and rare) African Penguin

What to do

Head to Boulder’s Beach and make acquaintance with the local residents, the African penguins. The little crowd-pleasers love to waddle around the beach and swim between the large granite boulders. For the best view of the penguins, take a walk along the wheelchair-friendly boardwalk that will take you through the dunes & indigenous vegetation at Foxy Beach. The African penguin is an endangered species, so come prepared to pay an entry fee, which goes towards the conservation of their habitat. Be sure to familiarise yourself with the rules of the beach, which include not feeding the penguins.

Boulder’s offers a good swimming beach, but for an even even better swimming experience, head a bit further down to Water’s Edge. This beach is something of a secret beach & you won’t find it on Google Maps. Just north of Boulder’s beach, behind a wooden gate that keeps the penguins off the road, you’ll find this secluded bay which offers a pristine white beach and a perfect swimming area. Bring an umbrella, towel and swimming gear and while away your day in bliss.

Especially if you’re on an outing with kids (or just looking to entertain the kid in you!) you’ll want to explore the Warrior Toy Museum. This small museum houses thousands of toy cars, airplanes, soldiers & dolls many of which date far back. Owner and curator Percyl Van Zyl has taken great care in putting together a delightful display of model trains, ships and miniature figurines. This little gem will take you down a nostalgic walk down memory lane. If you’re a collector, you’ll be happy to learn that an array of toys are also for sale.

Take a trip down memory lane at the Warrior Toy Museum

Take some time to admire the statue of Just Nuisance, but not without knowing the back story! Just Nuisance was an enormous Great Dane that in the 1930s became the first, and only, dog to be enlisted in the Royal Navy. Just Nuisance grew up in and around Simon’s Town harbor, and became friendly with anyone and everyone that looked like a Royal Navy sailor. As a very friendly dog, Just Nuisance was treated to all sorts of titbits, and started following sailors around, thereby earning himself the name “Just Nuisance”. Just Nuisance started jumping on and off train rides to and from Cape Town, much to the annoyance of conductors who insisted that his train fares should be paid for. Not wanting him to be put down, many sailors pleaded on his behalf and eventually succeeded in having him enlisted as an Able Seaman. As a member of the armed forces, he would be entitled to free rail travel. In 1985, many years after his death, a statue of Just Nuisance overlooking the harbor, was erected in Simon’s Town and still stands there today.

Simon’s Town has so much to offer – we’ve only picked a few of our favourite activities –that you might want to consider spending a weekend there. Have you been to Simon’s Town? What were your highlights?

Twelve things you might consider doing during a powercut

Power failures have become a part of every day life in South Africa and while we could while away our time complaining about them, we like to disconnect and make the most this downtime. We’ve racked our brains for some fun activities to do at home or around Cape Town for when the power cuts out, whether you’re a local or a visitor!

Bust out the board games

Be honest, when was the last time you’ve played a board game? Power cuts are the perfect opportunity for your family to put their screens aside and come together around a board game – like in the good old days. With a game of monopoly and a few snacks and drinks, those two hours sans electricity will fly by!

Read a book or two!

Remember when you used to inhale books like no tomorrow? Here’s your chance to rekindle that love affair. Make sure you have a good stack of books at hand and kick back with one whenever the power goes off.

Go for a walk

Cape Town offers plenty splendid hikes and walking routes. From Lion’s Head to Constantia all the way to Cape Point, the Cape is littered with opportunities to get out and explore the gorgeous natural environment. Round up the dogs, pull on the hiking boots, call up a friend and get out there – you won’t regret it!

Do absolutely nothing.

When was the last time you really switched off completely? Find an outdoor spot, put out a blanket, lie down and watch the clouds move across the sky (or look at the stars if the sun has set!). Not being able to work due to a power cut is the perfect excuse to take a real break and do sweet nothing.

Enjoy a candle lit bath

Well if a powercut isn’t just the perfect excuse to spoil yourself. With a little bit of luck your geyser will still have enough hot water for you to run yourself a steaming bath. Recline into the tub and savour the bliss of not being able to do anything productive. Unless you’re in an area that’s experiencing water shortage – in that case, scrap this point.

Pack a picnic

Fashion yourself a good old sandwich with cold meats, gherkins, cheese and whatever else you fancy, pack a lemonade, a sweet treat and a blanket and head to the nearest park with a friend or colleague. A powercut is the perfect reason to turn your lunch into a full blown event.

Fit in a workout

If there’s one thing you don’t need power for it’s working out! Plan your day around the power cut(s) and make sure you fit your work out in when the power’s off. If you download a workout app or learn a routine off by heart, you’ll be able to exercise practically anywhere. Bonus? The more power cuts there are the quicker you’ll reach your fitness goals!

Go for a dip

With two gorgeous oceans on offer and no power, heading to the beach and going for a swim is the perfect solution in Cape Town. Let the Stage number determine whether it’s a sunrise swim, a lunchtime swim, a sunset swim, or maybe all three if you’re in luck! Let the ocean wash away your worries and don’t forget – it only counts as a swim if you’ve dipped under three times!

Enjoy a candlelit dinner

If you look at from the right perspective, a power failure can be quite romantic: complete silence, candles everywhere and no one is distracted by their phones. Make the most of it and pick up dinner someplace, grab a bottle of wine and turn it into a romantic evening for two: where you’ll be entirely focused on another for a change, for want of distractions.

Do a spring clean

You may not want to hear it but what better time to tackle that spring clean than when the electricity keeps you from doing literally everything else you’d rather do! The bright side of powercuts is that they twist your arm and make you do that one thing that would otherwise be at the very bottom of your list. So empty your closets, sift out everything you don’t need and do a deep clean.

Go to the cinema

If there’s one place that’s guaranteed to have a generator during a power failure, it’s the cinema. Head to the Labia, sink into the gorgeous retro seats and enjoy a little bit of culture: you’re bound to come out feeling more refined!

Learn something new

Whether it’s skateboarding or a new language, dedicate the time during powercuts to practice something you’re learning. This way, you’ll always have something to do when the lights go out and the more frequently they go off, the quicker you’ll improve at your craft.

Nothing hits the reset button quite like some time away from the city, looking onto an uninterrupted vista, cocktail or coffee in hand. At any given time in Cape Town, you’re a short drive away from a stunning view and a relaxing weekend away, so why not make the most of it, hire a car and treat yourself to some time out. We’ve dug up four local destinations with gorgeous views that will be good for your soul (and good for your Instagram feed.)

The Olive Tree Villa, Yzerfontein

South Africa’s West Coast has a rugged appeal, with its wide open planes and wind-swept beaches. In Spring, the dry landscape gives way to fields upon fields of wild flowers. The Olive Tree Villa is situated in Yzerfontein, one of the quaint costal towns on the West Coast that boasts endless stretches of white-sand beaches.

Nestled among the fynbos in this coastal fishing village, the Olive Tree Villa offers luxurious accommodation with the iconic silhouette of Table Mountain fading in the background. The villa’s bold, modern architecture beautifully contrasts its rough surroundings and turns the villa into a destination in itself.

Located on the beachfront, the villa caters for whale, dolphin and bird-watching. A front-facing pool invites you to recline while enjoying the gorgeous views and sunsets. If you’re not one to leave technology behind, you’ll be happy to know that the villas offers wifi, Netflix and Showmax. Small luxuries like extra length king size beds and 100% linen haven’t been overlooked either – if you’re looking for a short trip from the city, The Olive Tree Villa is for you!

Nima Lodge, Wilderness

On South Africa’s other coast, a somewhat longer drive from Cape Town (we would estimate about a five-hour drive), you’ll find the lush green town of Wilderness. The East Coast of South Africa offers as many beaches as the West Coast, but here the terrain is greener, with cliffs and rocky coastline giving way to beautiful beaches. The water is warmer and the climate is altogether more mild with less intense winds and less drastic swings in temperature.

Perched on the hills of Wilderness you’ll find Nima Lodge, the ultimate sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city – you’ll feel like you’re a world away. Nima Lodge offers self-catering accommodation with splendid views over wooded hills and valleys, that will refresh your soul and lend themselves to some spectacular images.

There are three spacious chalets, each of which comes with a fully equipped kitchen including a two plate induction stove, a convection oven, mini bar fridge and all cooking utensils. The chalets boast wrap around balconies and floor to ceiling windows that let in plenty of light.

Apart from the jaw-dropping views, Nima Lodge offers several activities so that you can enjoy the area to its fullest: from morning yoga sessions to guided hikes, it will be easy to stay active here. You can also enjoy fresh, locally-sourced vegetarian breakfast on request and a beautiful shared lounge area, complete with sundeck and pool.

Tintswalo Atlantic, Chapman’s Peak

A little closer to the city, there’s a magical drive that is perhaps one of the most famous in the world: Chapman’s Peak drive. The western flank of Chapman’s Peak mountain drops sharply for hundreds of metres into the Atlantic Ocean. Winding through the cliffs at the bottom of Chapman’s Peak is Chapman’s Peak drive. The drive offers a sweeping view over Hout Bay, Noordhoek and the Atlantic ocean.

Perfectly positioned to take in all the grandeur of this view is Tintswalo Atlantic, a 5-star, award-winning boutique lodge, nestled at the foot of Chapman’s Peak. The lodge sits right on the ocean, at a pebbled beach and enjoys panoramic views of the picturesque Hout Bay harbour, the dramatic Sentinel mountain peak, and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.

Tintswalo Atlantic offers the opportunity to truly spoil yourself without travelling too far from the city. Each suite is decorated in a unique style, according to individual themes drawing from the rich heritage of the lodge’s surroundings. Tintswalo promises all the luxuries and style you’d expect from a 5-star lodge, as well as unmatched views that you won’t be able to find anywhere else. Fancy taking a bath with uninterrupted views over Hout Bay harbour and the Hout Bay Sentinel? The Elba & Corsica Suite will make your dream come true! Or would you prefer to see out the day with a sunset dinner on the deck, with sweeping views over the while bay? In that case the Lamu Island Suite is the one for you!

Tintswalo Atlantic offers a picturesque, cosy dining experience in their dining room featuring exciting meals created from fresh, locally-sourced and sustainable ingredients. The dining area leads to an expansive deck where you can enjoy ocean views and the fresh sea air.

Lastly, you’ll want to treat yourself to the divine spa experience that Tintswalo Atlantic offers you from the comfort of your suite, against the backdrop of ocean sounds and smells. The Tintswalo spa therapists promise to leave you feeling rejuvenated and peaceful.

And there you have it! Three destinations in different price ranges to enjoy spectacular views from. Escaping from the city is that easy!

Out with the Old…

Over the 40 odd years that Vineyard Car Hire has been in existence, we like the bulk of car hire companies in South Africa, have insisted on payment via credit card. Due to the risky nature of car hire, the credit card has offered us flexibility in terms of payment and recourse if something happens to the vehicle such as an accident or theft. To achieve this, we obtained a pre-authorisation amount (or reserve amount) on the credit card as security and an imprint of the card on the rental agreement. Payment at the end of the hire was done manually by entering the credit card details on a speedpoint machine. Needless to say, in times of rampant credit card fraud, we felt the need to change the way we transacted to something that is both easy to use and secure, providing the card holder with greater peace of mind.

Credit Card Security

To provide some background, the PCI Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a security standard mandated by the credit card brands but administered by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council. The standard was created to increase controls around cardholder data to reduce credit card fraud. We realised that Vineyard Car Hire did not meet these standards especially around the recording and storage of card data e.g. credit card number and expiry date. It is with this in mind that we commissioned a rebuild of our website early in 2020 with a view to changing the way we transacted from manually entering the credit card information to transacting on a secure payment gateway on our website. We therefore eliminated the need to hold or store customer’s credit card details.

Using the Payment Gateway

So how does it work? When accepting the amount quoted on the website, the hirer will be guided to the payment gateway where they will pay for the hire amount. They will enter their credit card details and will perform a 3D Secure check to ensure that they are in fact the credit card holder. This is normally done by issuing an OTP (One Time Pin). Some bank apps are even using facial recognition. This way we can ensure that the credit card belongs to the card holder and is not being used fraudulently. On the ‘back end’ of our website we can view and record the transaction as well as the card holder’s name, the last four digits of the card and the expiry date. In addition, once the transaction has been made, tokenization provides us with the ability to debit or refund the credit card within the constraints of the rental agreement.

The payment gateway is simple and easy to use, simply enter your card details from the convenience of your own device.

Watch a Video Tutorial

Benefits

To summarise the benefits, the hirer no longer needs to provide his/her credit card details, the payment process is executed using a secure payment gateway and it is all accomplished prior to receiving the hire car making the hand-over process easier and quicker. Ultimately, the hirer’s credit card details are secure with no chance of fraud. In addition, we are now able to accept hybrid card such as cheque cards opening car hire to a wider customer base.

For more information on the payment process, click here.

Looking for a night out in Cape Town that’s as safe as it is unforgettable? Look no further! Here are some awesome tips to ensure you have a blast while staying secure:

Prioritize Group Safety: Strength in numbers! Stick together with your friends throughout the night. Plan meeting spots and check in on each other regularly.

Reliable Transportation: Arrange transportation ahead of time. Whether it’s a designated driver, ride-sharing, or public transport, make sure you have a safe way to get back home. A recent model, serviced and maintained vehicle from Vineyard will never leave you in the lurch.

Stay Connected: Keep your phone charged and your friends informed about your whereabouts. Set up a group chat or share your live location for extra peace of mind.

Respect Local Customs: Cape Town is a vibrant mix of cultures. Be respectful of local customs and traditions to ensure a positive experience for everyone.

Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Trust your gut and remove yourself from any situation that feels uncomfortable.

Drink Responsibly: If you’re drinking, do so in moderation. Stay hydrated with water and know your limits to stay in control.

Capture the Memories: Capture the stunning cityscape and your unforgettable moments, but be mindful of when and where you’re taking photos. Feel free to share your Cape Town by Night photos on our social media channels.

Respect Law Enforcement: If you encounter law enforcement officers, treat them with respect and follow their instructions. This will help keep the night enjoyable for everyone.

Let’s make the most of Cape Town’s vibrant nightlife while keeping safety a top priority! Have an incredible time exploring our beautiful city after dark. Remember, a night well-enjoyed is a night well-remembered. Stay safe and have a blast!

Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s Western Cape, Stellenbosch is a charming town that offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or a history buff, Stellenbosch has something for everyone. Here are some of the most interesting things to do in this picturesque town.

1. Explore the Vineyards

Stellenbosch is renowned for its world-class wineries. A visit to this town wouldn’t be complete without a wine tasting tour. Some of the must-visit estates include:

• Spier Wine Estate: Known for its ethical farming practices and extensive art collection, Spier offers wine tastings, Segway tours, and even grape-juice tastings for kids.

• Muratie Wine Estate: This historic estate, founded in 1685, offers a unique experience with its cobwebbed tasting room and old-school winemaking methods.

2. Take a Guided Walking Tour

Stellenbosch’s rich history is best explored on foot. A guided walking tour will take you through the town’s most significant landmarks, including Dorp Street with its beautifully preserved Cape Dutch architecture, the Village Museum, and the charming Oom Samie Se Winkel.

3. Visit the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve

For nature lovers, the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve is a must-visit. This reserve offers stunning hiking and biking trails that wind through lush forests and along mountain streams. It’s the perfect spot for a day of outdoor adventure.

4. Discover Art at the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden

Art enthusiasts will love the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden, where you can wander through beautifully landscaped gardens adorned with striking sculptures. It’s a serene and inspiring place to spend an afternoon.

5. Enjoy Culinary Delights

Stellenbosch is also a haven for foodies. The town boasts a variety of excellent restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy everything from gourmet meals to casual bites. Don’t miss the chance to pair your meal with some of the region’s finest wines.

6. Blend Your Own Wine at Middelvlei

For a unique and interactive experience, head to Middelvlei Wine Estate, where you can blend your own wine. It’s a fun way to learn about winemaking and create a personalized souvenir to take home.

7. Visit the Village Museum

Step back in time at the Village Museum, which consists of four historic houses that showcase different periods in Stellenbosch’s history. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past and a great way to learn about its cultural heritage.

A visit to Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate is a treat for the whole family. The estate is famous for its daily duck parade, where hundreds of Indian Runner ducks march through the vineyards. It’s a delightful sight and a fun activity for kids.

Conclusion

Stellenbosch is a town that truly has it all. From its rich history and vibrant culture to its stunning natural beauty and world-class wines, there’s no shortage of interesting things to do. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying for a week, Stellenbosch promises an unforgettable experience.

There’s no better way to celebrate the festive season than by exploring the serene beauty of the Cape Winelands. Picture yourself driving through scenic landscapes of lush vineyards, golden hues, and charming estates—all within an hour’s drive from Cape Town. Renting a car makes it effortless to experience this world-renowned wine region at your own pace.

Why Visit the Cape Winelands in December?

December is the perfect time to visit as the vineyards are bathed in warm sunlight, and the countryside offers breathtaking views. With award-winning wines, gourmet dining, and tranquil nature, it’s a destination that caters to every taste.

Top Experiences in the Winelands:

1. Wine Tasting Tours: Drive to Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, or Paarl to sample exquisite wines and learn about their rich heritage.
2. Picnic Spots: Many estates offer scenic picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
3. Outdoor Adventures: Explore hiking trails or bike rides through the vineyards.
4. Farm-to-Table Dining: Indulge in fine dining at some of the region’s best restaurants, offering fresh, local produce.

The Freedom of Car Hire

Hiring a car lets you create your own schedule and explore hidden gems beyond the main attractions. Visit multiple wine estates, take scenic detours, or stop to capture the beauty of the rolling vineyards along the way.

Tips for Your Wine Route Drive:

• Appoint a designated driver or consider booking a shuttle for a safe wine-tasting experience.
• Start early to avoid the midday heat and make the most of the daylight hours.
• Pack a camera to capture the unforgettable views.

Make the Most of Your Festive Escape

This December, treat yourself to the best of the Cape Winelands. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a fun outing with friends, a rental car is your key to unlocking the treasures of this idyllic destination.

Book your car today and let the journey begin!

December in Cape Town is a magical time when the city comes alive with vibrant colors, festivities, and an infectious holiday spirit. If you’re planning your festive season trip, renting a car is your gateway to exploring the Mother City and beyond. Here are two must-visit destinations that should top your December bucket list.

1. V&A Waterfront – A Festive Wonderland

The V&A Waterfront is the heart of Cape Town’s holiday celebrations. From its iconic Ferris wheel to the twinkling festive lights, this destination offers something for everyone. Enjoy world-class dining with breathtaking views of Table Mountain, shop for unique holiday gifts, or soak up the festive vibes with live entertainment. The waterfront’s scenic beauty makes it the perfect backdrop for family photos and memorable moments.

Tip: With a rental car, you can arrive early to beat the crowds and find convenient parking near the bustling attractions.

2. Bo-Kaap – A Burst of Colorful Culture

The Bo-Kaap neighborhood is a feast for the senses with its vividly painted houses, rich history, and welcoming community. December is an ideal time to wander these charming streets and experience Cape Town’s cultural diversity. Capture Instagram-worthy shots, taste authentic Cape Malay cuisine, and engage with locals to learn more about this iconic district.

Tip: Driving to Bo-Kaap allows you to easily explore nearby landmarks, such as Signal Hill or the Cape Town city center, at your leisure.

Why Choose Car Hire for Your Festive Adventures?

A rental car gives you the freedom to explore Cape Town and its surroundings without worrying about public transport schedules or ride-hailing availability during the busy holiday season. Whether you’re heading to beaches, wine farms, or hidden gems, your holiday itinerary becomes seamless.

So, gear up for an unforgettable festive season by renting a car to explore Cape Town’s vibrant attractions. These two destinations are just the beginning of your December adventure in the Mother City.

Book your car today and make this holiday season one to remember!