Paarl

Paarl is the third-oldest town in South Africa and is approximately 60 km to the north-west of Cape Town. It is famous for having one of the world's largest rock outcrops.

By car
The easiest way to get there from Cape Town is by car is to follow the N1 North. Travel time is from 45 minutes up to an hour depending on traffic.

By train
Metrorail runs trains from Cape Town, including the high-end Boland Business Express. Services are aimed mainly at commuters, with more trains in the morning and afternoon. Long distance Shosholoza Meyl trains between Cape Town and Johannesburg also calls here.

There are several railway stations in Paarl, but the main ones for tourists are:



By bus
Long distance coach operator Intercape has connections to Paarl from several major cities in South Africa as well as one international service from Harare, in Zimbabwe. While intercity buses are relatively cheap, journey times can be grueling.

Get around
As with most of South Africa, it is best to use a rented car.

Wine related
Visit one of many wine estates

Hiking
There are hiking trails in the area, ranging from short walk to multi-day trails.

Eat
There are restaurants along the Main Road, and most of the wine estates also have their own restaurants on site.

Drink
Wine and brandy. Visit any of the wine estates that offer wine tasting. Also see the Do section

Splurge

 * Member of Cape Country Routes and Fair Trade Tourism Certified
 * Member of Cape Country Routes and Fair Trade Tourism Certified

Go next
Paarl is in the centre of the Cape Winelands, within proximity of the major town of Stellenbosch. It is also near Cape Town. You can reach all main attractions within 30 to 45 minutes (except the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point).