Stellenbosch, South Africa’s oldest town after Cape Town, is a university town with a population of about 90,000 (excluding students). It is located about 50 kilometres from Cape Town and is situated on the banks of the Eersterivier (“First River”) in the famous wine-growing region and is encircled by picturesque mountains. The second oldest town in South Africa has fondly been called ‘Eikestad’ or city of oaks and its streets are lined with some of the most beautiful surviving examples of Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian architecture in the Cape. Dorp Street is a national monument and taking the time to walk around this cosy old part of Stellenbosch, with its cosmopolitan restaurants, coffee bistros, with superb views of mountain, vineyards and orchards, is an idyllic morning venture. How amazing does that sound?!
For the nature lover there are a number of excellent hikes in the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve. The full-day Vineyard Hiking Trail, a fairly new 24 km long trail, starts on the slopes of the Papegaaiberg and winds its way through vineyards, forests, olive groves and coastal renosterveld.
The Stellenbosch Tourist Information Office and the Stellenbosch Wine Route Office are in Market Street – start your tour here! Many of the historical buildings are close by and it is possible to discover some of Stellenbosch on foot.
One of the coolest parts about this location is that it gives you access to so many things to do! You can hang out in the serenity of Stellenbosch and enjoy that natural wonder of the winelands, or you also have easy access to the busy and bustling city of Cape Town, just 35 minutes away!
Get this: you can catch a ride to SU’s campus for less than a dollar per trip! You can easily load as much money for the shuttle as you need onto your student card! SU campus shuttle, a.k.a “Matie Shuttles”, are available to transport students to and from campus. There are also Recommended routes around campus that will mitigate safety risks on and around campus. If you should have any emergency on campus, here’s the number to call: +27 021 808 2333. Also, don’t forget your Site director Athena is always available if you need her!
Here’s her info:e-mail: cissouthafrica@cisabroadonsite.com phone: +27-71-118-6139 skype: tinapez