About Paarl

Often overlooked, in favour of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, 16th-century Paarl is a charming example of historic South Africa and has some fine examples of Cape-Dutch architecture. Surrounded by rolling blue mountains and vineyards as far as the eye can see, Paarl offers a far less touristy stay in the Western Cape. Originally colonized by the Dutch, it is still home to the Afrikaanse Taalmonument, as well as one of the country's oldest schools, Paarl Boys High School. Our collection of the best places to stay in Paarl showcase the finest hotels for romance, great value, foodies, and boutique lovers.

Lying along the banks of the Berg River, Paarl is the largest town amongst the Winelands, and boasts one of the longest high streets in the world! At 11 km long, it's a hike in itself. With plenty of excellent walking routes, as well as lots of beautiful hotels to stay and some award-winning restaurants, it's well worth a visit.

What not to miss

  • When in Rome! Whether self-drive or with a registered tour group (Gary Flynn of Cape Discovery Tours is without exception the most reputable) take a tour of the Cape Winelands.
  • Art lovers will adore Hout Street Gallery, showcasing works by both established and new South African artists.
  • Foodies, don't miss the Windmeul Farmers' Market, on the first Saturday of every month. Not your usual farm stall set up, held at Windmeul Winery it showcases produce from some of the finest artisans in the Western Cape.
  • So much more than just a vineyard, Fairview Estate have been making their own wine, cheese, and produce for centuries. Stop for lunch and some wine-tasting.
  • If travelling during the first weekend of March, don't miss the Paarl Harvest Celebrations - an important fixture amongst what is still, a largely farming community.
  • Don't miss out on lunch and a tour of the grounds at Babylonstoren, one of South Africa's most renowned restaurants. Remember to book ahead!

Our collection of the best places to stay in Paarl showcase the top picks of what this charming town has to offer.

The Best Places to stay in Paarl

For a great value stay

  • With just five bedrooms, Madeliefie is a delightful owner-managed stay, with a chic French feel and afternoon tea.
  • Stay on a working fruit farm at Goedemoed Farm - great for families and great value too.

For all-out luxury

  • One of the Western Cape's most popular hotels, Babylonstoren is known for its seasonal dining and a superb spa. A once in a lifetime experience.

For a heritage stay

  • A perfect example of Cape Dutch architecture, dating back to 1692, De Kleijne Bos Country House provides a great value heritage stay.
  • Built-in the 17th-century, Diamant Estate's traditional thatched roof and colonial-style provides characterful period stay.

For a boutique stay

  • With just five rooms, The Lighthouse Boutique Suites provides guests with the very best of a boutique stay - individually decorated rooms, lovingly prepared food, and tailor-made stay.

For a romantic stay

  • A popular wedding venue, Nantes Estate is a very romantic setting.
  • With rolling grounds, surrounded by vineyards, Cascade Manor is wonderful couples' retreat.

Travel Information

  • If you want to rent self-drive to explore the Western Cape, visit our online partner Rentalcars.
  • Cape Town International Airport is a 50-minute drive - taxis can be booked easily.
  • Paarl enjoys a Mediterranean climate, hottest between December and January when temperatures reach the low thirties, and at its coolest between a pleasant 15°C - 20°C in June and July, when it is also at its wettest.

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The best hotels in Paarl

De Kleijne Bos Country House

Paarl

Dating back to 1692 this owner-managed country house is a fine example of rural Cape Dutch style. Brimming with original features: thatched rooves, exposed beams, and centuries-old tiles; it's an authentic stay. Relax by the pool, in its lush gardens, or with a locally sourced cheese platter!

  • Country Escape - Traditional farmhouse accommodation in the heart of the Cape Winelands
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
  • Secluded setting
  • Views
from $53 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Madeliefie

Paarl

Owner managed boutique B&B. Each of its five bedrooms is unique, providing French style shabby-chic interiors, decorated with soft pastels and floral motifs. A continental breakfast is served every morning accompanied with afternoon tea, plus there is excellent dining close by. Charming!

  • Value chic - Shabby chic interiors, excellently priced
  • Full of character
  • Romantic
  • Traditional
from $63 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Goedemoed Farm

Paarl

Intimate little two-bedroom guest house located on a working fruit farm, set amidst the Paarl Valley. Rooms are decorated and include en-suite bathrooms and French-doors opening out onto rolling grounds with an inviting pool. A charming stay.

  • Value chic - An excellent value stay in a picturesque setting
  • Sights nearby - Afrikaans Language Monument
  • Great walks - Up to Paarl Mountain
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
from $72 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Diamant Estate

Paarl

Dating back to 1692 Diamant Estate is an excellent example of classic Cape Dutch style architecture. Rooms include plenty of original features: exposed beams, colourful tiles, and are filled with antique pieces. Dawid Kriel rustles up some gourmet dining options, with award-winning options nearby.

  • Country Escape - A traditional Cape Dutch style property surrounded by the rolling Paarl countryside
  • Sights nearby - Take a drive up to Afrikaans Language Monument
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
  • Full of character
from $105 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Nantes Estate

Paarl

Romantic accommodation worthy of a wedding, it's no wonder Nantes Estate is popular with couples. Its four luxurious suites provide a stylish stay, with indoor-outdoor living in the form of sun-dappled terraces, leading onto an inviting pool. Relax amidst the surrounding vineyards and fine dining.

  • Romantic Break - Luxurious rooms and a setting worthy of a wedding
  • Local markets - Shop for local produce and sample award winning cuisine at Babylonstoren
  • Sights nearby - Take a drive up to the Afrikaans Language Monument
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
from $132 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Cascade Manor

Paarl

Housed in a grand country house, surrounded by olive groves. A luxurious stay set against the backdrop of the Drakensberg mountains. Each of its modern yet classically decorated rooms provide a comfortable stay. No restaurant, but a three-course dinner is served. All this plus a pool and spa.

  • Country Escape - Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards - it's the perfect country stay
  • Great walks - Through the olive groves to the nearby waterfall
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
  • Romantic
from $141 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Lighthouse Boutique Suites

Paarl

A family home turned lavish hotel is located in the heart of The Cape Winelands. Each of its five rooms is lovingly decorated with four-poster beds, quirky upholstery, and living areas in which you can unwind. There's an outdoor pool, manicured gardens, and fine dining. Excellent restaurants nearby.

  • Country Escape - Located in the rolling Paarl countryside, this hotel provides a relaxing country escape
  • Sights nearby - The charming towns of Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, Wellington, and many more are a scenic drive away
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
  • Four poster beds
from $318 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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