The R45 connects Franschhoek to Paarl and all along this sought-after route you will find yourself in the lap of luxury with beautiful farms, golf estates, a polo estate and of course the greatest gentleman of all, the statue of our beloved Madiba.
Legend has it that Mr Mandela used to look out over the granite outcrops of Paarl Mountain from where he was incarcerated in the Victor Verster Prison (now Drakenstein Correctional Serivces) and said the mountain looked like a sleeping child. Our town commemorates the day that Madiba walked out of the prison gates and straight into our nation’s hearts with the annual Freedom Run & Walk in February each year.
The Mandela Statue is one of three similar statues in South Africa and was erected in 2008. The 3,2m bronze statue wighs 460kg and was donated by the Sexwale Family Foundation.
Val de Vie Estate dates back to over 230 year to 1783 when the land was granted by the Governor of the Cape to French Huguenot, Abraham Andries le Roux, in a time when the Paarl region was producing the highest volume of wine in South Africa. The vision of the estate was a place of life for families and this is what the words ‘val de vie’ means; ‘valley of life’.
Tee off at Paarl Golf Club or the Jack Nicklaus-designed Pearl Valley Golf Course. Test your golfing ability on the 27- hole Paarl Golf Club and enjoy all the other services on offer at the club house at Boschenmeer Golf Estate. From being pampered in their spa to enjoying wood fired pizza or freshly prepared sushi the Golfing Goat Restaurant will spoil you with unbelievable views. Enjoy a great golf in incredible settings framed by mountains, rivers and vineyards.
La Paris Bistro serves delicious farm-fresh breakfasts and bistro lunches. Its grounds pay homage to the region’s majestic beauty, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, ancient oaks and peaceful dam, with a jetty across the water and an island in the centre – making it a dream spot for any occasion. Also home to a scenic wedding and sought-after functions venue, the popular bistro that serves food in a stylish, comfortable setting that even welcomes little members of the family. There’s also a farm deli for take-home delights, and a bakery churning out fresh artisanal breads and cakes daily.
Winelands Paragliding is an adventure tourism company focused on paragliding adventures. They offer mountain adventures, training packages and equipment sales and advice to the public. All their staff is passionate about what they do and receive continuous training to ensure they stay at the leading edge of their industry
In line with Avondale’s well-established ethos of premium, award-winning South African wines which are produced organically and biodynamically comes FABER restaurant. A sustainability-driven eatery which focuses on supporting low carbon, free range, and organic producers. You are bound to have a fantastic dining experience celebrating the heritage and modernity that is blended into the food, wine and people of FABER.
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Accommdation:
- Boschenmeer House
- Groot Parys Lifestyle Estate
- La Paris Estate Boutique Hotel
- Nuwerus Lodge
- Pearl Valley Hotel by Mantis
- Polo Village Accommodation at Val de Vie Estate
Experiences: