Wellington is a charming town located less than an hour’s drive from Cape Town. Dotted with boutique wine farms, quaint eateries, art and nature, this Western Cape gem is worth adding to your bucket list.
Here’s everything you can enjoy in Wellington on your next visit:
Where to Eat
Festa
Located at the foot of Bainskloof in Wellington, Festa is perfect for those who want an aesthetic background, a laid-back dining experience, and delicious cocktails. Sample some of their speciality pizzas and tasty small plates, ideal for sharing with the whole family. When the weather is warmer, head outdoors. The cosy seating overlooks a large field where your youngsters can play. This cashless facility also hosts regular events—from music performances to comedy shows.
Location: Bainskloof Rd, Wellington
Contact: Visit www.festa-restaurant.co.za/
Hope, Diemersfontein
Hope offers contemporary bistro food that complements Diemersfontein’s wines. While the eatery draws food inspiration from all over the world, many of the dishes are inspired by South Africa’s unique heritage. Some popular menu items include braised Moroccan lamb shank, crispy Asian duck, and chicken saltimbocca. Visitors to Diemersfontein can also try their famous wine pairings.
Location: R301, Jan Van Riebeeck Dve, Newtown, Wellington
Contact: www.diemersfontein.co.za/hope-restaurant/
Mila at Doolhof
Mila is situated in the original wagon house at Doolhof Wine Estate, which was built in the late 19th century. With ample light flowing in from the large windows and doors, guests are invited to linger, taste, and enjoy superb wines and flavourful dishes. The large terrace is surrounded by lush gardens where you can sample some of the dishes, which include truffled cauliflower, steak and biltong, and Cape Malay curry.
Location: Doolhof Wine Estate, Bovlei Rd, Wellington
Contact: Visit www.milarestaurant.co.za/
Cole The Eatery
Cole The Eatery is in one of Wellington’s historic buildings, which once functioned as a wagon repair shop for people heading north during the gold rush era. Today, when you visit, you will find elements of transport décor in the eatery. The menu incorporates organic and fresh produce sourced from local farmers, along with an impressive local wine list. The menu consists of everything from small plates to pizzas, burgers, and light meals.
Location: 16 Addy Rd, Wellington
Contact: Visit coletheeatery.co.za/
The Grillroom, Pizza Vista, Val Du Charron
Meat lovers will enjoy The Grillroom at Val Du Charron Wine and Leisure Estate. The glass-fronted restaurant showcases stunning panoramic views of the vineyards, olive orchards, and mountains. Tuck into gourmet burgers, steaks, surf and turf, and steak rolls, as well as boerewors and pap, bobotie, and prawns. The menu is expansive and offers vegetarian items. The Pizza Vista is more laid-back, perfect for families or large groups of friends. Experience some of their pizzas, calzones and delicious pasta dishes, paired with either a craft beer, cocktail or the estate’s impressive wine catalogue.
Location: Bovlei Rd, Wellington
Contact: Visit vdcwines.co.za/
Where to Go
James Sedgwick Whisky Distillery
James Sedgwick Distillery, the only commercial whisky distillery in Africa, offers visitors a diverse range of whisky experiences. Choose from one of three tastings, where you can sample three to five whiskies. One of the pairings includes tapas-style food, while another features a taste of the Exclusive Master’s Collection. All tastings include a welcome cocktail and an in-depth whisky education session with a knowledgeable tour guide. For whisky enthusiasts, the distillery also offers the unique “Bottle-Your-Own” experience, featuring special release single cask whiskies. Options include a Three Ships 11-Year-Old Single Malt Acacia or a Bain’s 14-Year-Old Single Grain PX Sherry Cask Finish. Tours and tastings are available every Friday and Saturday, with special arrangements possible for guests during the week.
Location: 79 Stokery Rd, Wellington
Contact: www.jamessedgwickdistillery.co.za/
Wellington Museum
For those eager to step back in time, the Wellington Museum offers fascinating exhibitions showcasing the cultures of various African ethnic groups, the first inhabitants, religion and education, and an extensive Egyptian collection. It also provides information about the historical sites in and around Wellington, where you can delve into the rich history of the small town and uncover the story of its origins.
Location: 60 Church St, Wellington
Contact: Visit wellingtonmuseum.co.za/
Welvanpas Family Vineyards
If you are keen to experience the area’s dramatic landscapes and get your steps in, the Welvanpas Hiking Trail is worth exploring. You can obtain your map and permit from Welvanpas Family Vineyards, where you can navigate the various routes.
En route, depending on which trail you choose, you will enjoy the sights and sounds of the Groenberg Mountains, the Sneeukop Mountains, and a waterfall. Mountain bike trails are also available. Hiking trails range from 6.5 to 7 km. Once you have completed your hike, head back to Welvanpas Family Vineyards for a wine tasting (you can enjoy five glasses for R60) or a slice of their famous cake and coffee.
Location: Bovlei Rd, Wellington
Contact: Call 021 300 5708
Old Tannery
Known as one of the oldest factories in South Africa, the Old Tannery is perfect for all ages. Dating back to 1871, visitors here can eat and drink at one of the many eateries, shop for antiques and fine art, books and other treats, or spend a day working in their creative spaces. One of the most popular attractions is the Classic Car Café, where you can enjoy the finest coffee while admiring a unique selection of restored classic cars. Beer lovers, craft beer and other tasting options are available at Garagista. There is also a Model T Ford collection.
Location: Hermon Rd, Wellington
Contact: Visit oldtannery.co.za/
Jacaranda Wine Estate
This boutique wine farm gets its name from the Jacaranda trees growing around the manor house and vineyard. Jacaranda is known as the smallest registered wine estate in South Africa, with an annual production of 20,000–25,000 bottles.
While you must enjoy one of their wine tastings, it is the resident cats and dogs that are sure to melt your heart. Sit on the stoep and savour some of their wines with a charcuterie board. Jacaranda also offers two types of accommodation: Jacaranda Cottage and Chai Holiday House.
Location: Old Herman Road, Wellington
Contact: Visit jacarandawines.co.za/
Bontebok Ridge Reserve
Part of the Renosterveld Conservancy in the Limietberg Valley, Bontebok Ridge Reserve is home to unique flora and fauna. Go on a game drive to see bontebok, eland, wildebeest, springbuck, zebra, and other indigenous species. Visitors will also learn how the zebra in the reserve is part of a revolutionary breeding project that has revived what was thought to be the extinct quagga. Wooden cabin accommodation is available for those who want to spend the night.
Location: Agter Groenberg, 162 Kruishof Rd, Wellington
Contact: Visit bit.ly/3RycPCr
