Paarl

Paarl Overview

With a laid-back atmosphere and shady, tree-lined roads, Paarl is a picturesque town with a number of attractions and sights on offer. Some of the wine estates to visit in Paarl include Nederberg, Simonsvlei and KWV Wine Emporium, which also produces one of South Africa’s top brandies.

A visit to the Afrikaans Language Monument offers some insight into the Afrikaans culture and history, while those who wish to try out some of the adventure sports on offer can paraglide off the famous Paarl Rock.

Other things to explore in Paarl include the Paarl Mountain, which can be climbed via horse cart. The vineyards can also be explored by horse carts, offering the ideal way to take in the sights of this sleepy town.  

Highlights & Places in Paarl

As one of the Cape’s oldest towns, Paarl is also a key location on the Cape Wine Route. Along with many wine estates, you will also find olive farms, cheese dairies and brandy distilleries. Paarl also has a number of restaurants, ensuring an excellent destination for food and wine lovers to indulge in an array of taste sensations.

While wine may be the town’s primary focus, there is a lot more to Paarl. The town has a long stretch of Main Road containing a number of beautiful old buildings dating back to its early years, along with a few national monuments, plenty of shops, restaurants and other facilities. 

Best Time to Visit Paarl

When to Go

Paarl is ideal to visit any time of the year. Summers run from November to March, offering warm weather that is ideal for outdoor pursuits.

Winter runs from June to August, and with plenty of roaring fireplaces in most restaurants and cellars, this is cosy time to visit. 

Getting There & Getting Around

Getting To Paarl

The best way to get into Paarl is by car, as part of a Cape Winelands tour or self-drive adventure. This will give you time to take in the scenery of the Winelands, with its endless stretches of pastures, vineyards, orchards and meadows. 

Getting Around Paarl

The Main Road is one of the longest roads in South Africa, but can be explored by foot if you are up to a challenge. Horse carts are a novel way to explore the wine estates. 

Paarl Tips : Know Before You Go

ATMs/Money:
There are a few banks and ATMs on the Main Road and in the shopping centre found in the middle of town. Most banks offer foreign exchange facilities.

Credit/Debit cards:
Both of these are widely accepted at most of the largest stores and restaurants, but it is a good idea to have some cash at hand too for the smaller shops and farm stalls.

Internet availability:
There is an internet café in town, and some guest houses and coffee shops may offer WiFi. 

Paarl Map