Hotels in Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch: A Tapestry of Vineyards and Dreams in the Heart of the Countryside

Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Stellenbosch is a charming small town that enchants visitors with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and renowned vineyards. This university town boasts vibrant gardens and oak-lined streets, where South African hospitality shines through inviting cafes and boutique shops. Experience world-class wine tastings, explore the lush countryside, and indulge in delectable cuisine at local restaurants. With its blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, Stellenbosch promises a memorable escape for those seeking romance, adventure, or simply a taste of the good life in the heart of South Africa. For our best hotel rates in Stellenbosch and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Stellenbosch

Some of the best places to stay in Stellenbosch are Strand, Bellville and Parow. Strand, Bellville, and Parow each offer unique experiences for travellers. Strand is ideal for beach lovers, featuring scenic views and outdoor activities. Bellville provides a vibrant urban atmosphere with shopping and dining options. Parow, with its local charm, is great for those seeking a more authentic South African experience. Generally, accommodations in these areas range from spacious rooms in modern hotels to comfortable guesthouses. For first-time visitors, Strand is the best choice, combining relaxation with stunning coastal beauty. Here are some of the best hotels in Stellenbosch that our travelers love:

1. StrandOpens in a new window: Strand is a vibrant coastal town perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers. It offers stunning views, direct beach access, and exciting outdoor activities. The key attractions include Cheetah Outreach, Bikini Beach, and Stellenbosch University. For accommodations, consider Morgen Guest HouseOpens in a new window, a guesthouse with a focus on beach and adventure vacations, featuring amenities like golf and various adventure sports nearby. Chocolate Box GuesthouseOpens in a new window is another excellent option, ideal for luxury and adventure, offering sailing and hiking activities. Lastly, Erinvale Estate Hotel And SpaOpens in a new window caters to business and family needs, providing business facilities and children’s amenities.
2. BellvilleOpens in a new window: Bellville is a bustling urban area known for its business-friendly atmosphere and educational institutions. It is home to the University of the Western Cape and the Cape Town International Convention Centre. For a stay, Bliss Boutique HotelOpens in a new window is a top choice, offering beach access and family-friendly services alongside business amenities. Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal TowersOpens in a new window also stands out with its adventure and business offerings, including various water sports nearby. Lastly, Salt Boutique Guest House - Adults OnlyOpens in a new window provides a combination of beach access and business services, making it suitable for both leisure and work.
3. ParowOpens in a new window: Parow is family-oriented and features several educational institutions, including the University of Stellenbosch Business School. This area is perfect for those looking for a blend of business and family activities. Asara Wine Estate & HotelOpens in a new window offers a boutique experience with unique decor and business amenities, making it a great choice for families. The Wild Mushroom Luxury Country HouseOpens in a new window is a luxurious option with access to a nearby winery, perfect for wine enthusiasts. Wedgeview Country House & SpaOpens in a new window provides beach access along with adventure sports, making it appealing for those looking for both relaxation and excitement.

Things to do in Stellenbosch for first times

Three days in Stellenbosch offers a captivating blend of rolling vineyards, majestic mountains, and lush gardens. Visitors can enjoy leisurely hikes, invigorating spa treatments, and thrilling segway tours, all while soaking in the serene countryside and vibrant small-town atmosphere—making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Stellenbosch:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Stellenbosch at the breathtaking Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy scenic hiking trails and stunning mountain views. After immersing yourself in nature, head to the University of Stellenbosch Botanical Garden, a tranquil oasis filled with diverse plant species and beautifully landscaped grounds—perfect for a leisurely stroll. To round off your day, visit the historic Dutch Reform Church, known for its striking architecture and rich history, offering insight into the town's cultural heritage.
• Day 2: Your day begins at Fick House, a charming museum that showcases the history of Stellenbosch and its people. Next, immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Rupert Museum, home to a remarkable collection of South African art. Conclude your day with a visit to the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden, where you can wander through stunning outdoor sculptures set against the backdrop of the picturesque landscape, making for a perfect photo opportunity.
• Day 3: Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along Dorp Street, one of the oldest streets in South Africa, lined with beautiful oak trees and Cape Dutch architecture. Then, venture to Polkadraai Farm, where you can enjoy family-friendly activities like berry picking and engaging with farm animals. Wrap up your itinerary at the Stellenbosch Town Hall, an iconic building steeped in history, where you can appreciate its architectural elegance and perhaps catch a local event or exhibition.

4 tips to find a great Stellenbosch hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Stellenbosch is from June to August, when hotel rates significantly drop. International travellers should aim to book their flights at least three months in advance for the best deals, while domestic travellers can secure cheaper prices by booking at least one month ahead. To fully immerse yourself in the area's charm, a stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended, allowing you to explore key attractions such as the university, beautiful gardens, and the picturesque countryside. This destination offers great value for money, making it a fantastic choice for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Stellenbosch, Hotels.com offers a fantastic opportunity to save on your stay. To explore options, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you may discover enticing discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep yourself informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, helping you potentially score the best hotel deal for your trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on hotel expenses in Stellenbosch.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying near key attractions or city centres can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable rates, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and the ease of accessing the sights you plan to visit.

Best time to go to Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 52.2°F (11.2°C), while February is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 70.9°F (21.6°C). June is usually the wettest month. January, March, and September are the peak travel months in Stellenbosch, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with no to light rainfall. On the other hand, May, June, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.