Location: South Africa » Western Cape » Cape Winelands » Sommerset WestSomerset WestSomerset West is situated in the Western Cape on the edge ofSomerset West is a residential town on the edge of the Cape Winelands dominated by vineyards and the craggy folds of the beautiful Helderberg mountains. At Vergelegen, one of the oldest and most imposing wine estates in the country, the camphor trees have been declared a national monument and the extensive grounds are delightful. Somerset West is a restful area of much greenery and close enough to sea and mountains to allow enjoyment of both. In 1817 the British Governor, Lord Charles Somerset, granted permission to four farmers, owning different parts of a divided Vergelegen, at the foot of the Hottentots-Holland Mountains, to build a church and a lay out a village around it. In 1819 he also allowed them to name the new village ’Somerset” in his hornour. In 1850 the ‘West’ was added to Somerset to distinguish it from Somerset East in the Eastern Cape. GENERAL INFORMATION How to get there Cape Town 48 km HISTORICAL VIEW National Monuments The Old Bridge Over the Lourens River (1845) and the NG Church (1820), burial site to ‘Onze Jan’ Hofmeyer and other well known South Africans. NATURE Dick Dent Bird Sanctuary Large variety of aquatic birds Helderberg Nature Reserve Situated on the outskirts of town, popular with nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Helderberg Nature Reserve, primarily a botanical reserve, is famous for it’s beautiful proteas and disas. Facilities The 100 year old oak trees provide shade for several picnic sites. The reserve has a restaurant, called the Duck Inn. ATTRACTIONS Country Club Market A range of quality hand-crafted goods. September to May. Spookhill Often generates discussion on whether the fact that cars roll uphill here is an optical illusion or one of the world’s unsolved mysteries. ACTIVITIES Hiking The Helderberg Nature Reserve offers a network of day trails, ranging from 3 km to 8 km in length (3-6 hours). Graded easy to difficult. Guides available. Helderbergplaas Hiking Trail One or two circular routes. Graded moderate to difficult. Overnight huts available. Taaibos Day Walks One day, 11 km circular route. Grading moderate to very difficult. Overnight hut and campsite. Mountain Biking Helderbergplaas Mountain Bike Trail An 11 km cycling trail graded as average to very difficult. Overnight facilities available.
Accommodation in and around Cape Winelands Auberge Rozendal Winefarm accommodation in Cape Winelands
The rooms at Auberge Rozendal are situated between the vineyards with majestic mountain views of the Stellenbosch and Simonsberg mountains, providing an environment of beauty and tranquillity. Guests are accommodated in simple elegance and comfort. E... More
 Mimosa Lodge accommodation in Cape Winelands
Situated in Montagu, the heart of Route 62, and just two hours from Cape Town, Mimosa Lodge is the perfect stop on the scenic route between Cape Town, Oudtshoorn and the Garden Route. The Lodge is a delightful retreat with an enviable reputation for ... More
 Zevenwacht Wine Estate accommodation in Cape Winelands
Zevenwacht Wine Farm on the Stellenbosch Wine Route offers a unique experience for local and international tourists. Conveniently situated close to the City and Cape Town International Airport this working wine farm exceeds all expectations.Our 4 sta... More
 Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa accommodation in Cape Winelands
Set in the culinary capital of the Cape, the town of Franschhoek lies below the towering Franschhoek Mountains, With picturesque vineyards a stone’s throw away, the elegant, sophisticated charm of Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa is the per... More
 La Couronne Hotel & Cellars accommodation in Cape Winelands
A luxury hotel situated on the hills overlooking the Franschhoek valley and affording panoramic views of the valley and mountains. La Couronne is an elegant thatched villa set on a wine estate, complete with a working winery. For an exclusive luxury ... More
 De Oude Paarl Hotel accommodation in Cape Winelands
Opened in late November 2002, we invite you to come and experience true Cape hospitality, personalised service, a charming ambiance, and superb food and wine at this splendid four-star boutique hotel on the historic mile of Paarl near Cape Town.... More
 Franschhoek Country House & Villas accommodation in Cape Winelands
Set in the picturesque wine-producing valley of Franschhoek is this small luxury hotel, offering luxury and indulgence to discerning travellers.The restored manor house and former perfumery dating back to 1890, is situated on the outskirts of the vil... More
 Houw Hoek Inn accommodation in Cape Winelands
Welcome to the HOUW HOEK INN, located on the site of a toll gate established in the Dutch East Indian days. The oldest hotel in South Africa, it is situated in the heart of the Kogelberg ( Biosphere) reserve, 90km from Cape... More
 Protea Hotel Cumberland accommodation in Cape Winelands
The Protea Hotel Cumberland is located in the charming Boland town of Worcester, in the heart of the Breede River Valley. Accommodation ranges from standard to deluxe, all fully air-conditioned, or you could spoil yourself and enjoy the luxury of the... More
 Protea Hotel Stellenbosch accommodation in Cape Winelands
With its Mediterranean climate, scenic environment and well-maintained facilities, Stellenbosch is the second-oldest town in South Africa and affectionately referred to as the "Town of Oaks". Whether it is the magnificent backdrop of mounta... More
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