Western Cape Article - South African Vacations

Governeor Simon van der Stel founded this stately town in 1679 and named it after himself.He probably thought that only this broad and fertile valley was worthy of his respected name.Stellenbosch is the second oldest town in South Africa and its many old buildings andmuseums are well preserved. It is also affectionately known as “Die Eikestad” (“Town ofOaks”) because of the many oak trees that line the streets.ADVENTURE AND SPORTAngling: The Ida’s Valley Dam is a popular fly-fishing spot. At the foot of the majesticSimonsberg lie two trout still-waters containing some of the largest trout in the country.Golf: There are three golf courses in the Stellenbosch area.Hiking: Various hiking routes traverse the area, including a two-hour hike (or 3-kmdrive) that leads to View Point, from which one can survey the valley. The day trails in theJonkershoek State Forest take one to clear mountain streams and waterfalls.Hot-air-ballooning: Hot air balloon trips provide a bird’s eye view of the valley, its vineyardsand majestic mountains.Jonkershoek River Valley: In addition to various historical tours, there are several horseriding,hiking and walking trails through the fertile Jonkershoek River Valley.Outdoor Activities: A variety of activities are available, namely cycling, mountain-biking, hikingand horse trails.Vineyard Hiking Trail: The 16-km Vineyard Trail offers a rewarding hike through the hills andwine estates.ART AND CRAFTSArt Galleries: The University of Stellenbosch is one of the oldest tertiary education centres inthe country. Apart from the beauty and historic atmosphere of the campus, the campus alsohas two art galleries. Various sculptures, paintings, etchings and ceramics, as well as Africanartefacts, are housed at the SASOL Art Museum and the Stellenbosch Art Gallery.186