September is Tourism Month with 27 September being designated as World Tourism Day. Paarl and Wellington are celebrating the 2021 theme of ‘Tourism for inclusive growth’ by highlighting the amazing diversity of their activities and tourism attractions.
“The United Nations World Tourism Organisation provides inspiration with a check list for tourism destinations. With the world slowly opening up to travelling, Paarl and Wellington are making sure that we tick all the boxes by providing accessibility and affordability for visitors. We are particularly proud of our members, who all strive to deliver responsible and transformational tourism experiences. We are confident that we can provide safe and enjoyable encounters for all our visitors. Every tourist matters to us,” mentions Annelize Stroebel, CEO of Drakenstein Local Tourism Association.
The Arboretum is one of the destinations that visitors should add to their list. This botanical garden is devoted to trees and presents Paarl’s own green space and climate park along the eastern bank of the Berg River. The Arboretum has more than 2 200 trees and shrubs from approximately 600 different species. The continents of the world are represented in the order from Europe, Africa, America, Asia, North America to Australasia from the entrance gate, which adds to its magical appeal. It is accessible to the public seven days a week (free of charge) and offers playgrounds, walking and running trails, outdoor gyms and furnished picnic spots.
Another affordable outdoor option is to hike in the beautiful Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve. Enjoy the amazing indigenous fynbos and the magnificent views. The reserve is open throughout the year, including weekends and all public holidays. Entry is free during the week and weekend tickets cost R30 per person and can be purchased at the main gate.
Take family, friends and furry pals (on a lease) to Welvanpas Family Vineyards in Wellington for a budget-friendly hike. The spectacular walk through the vineyards and along the tree-lined river is a unique Cape Winelands outdoor experience and easy on the pocket too. A hiking permit costs R50 per person with free entry to kids under 12 and furry companions.
Lockdown has undoubtedly created a new appreciation for the outdoors. Explore the vast network of hiking and cycling routes of Paarl Adventure Trails, which connect the farms around Paarl Mountain. It is paradise for mountain bikers, trail runners, hikers and walkers and suits various fitness levels. Visitors can enjoy awesome views, natural scenic beauty and delicious food and wine. Options range from a family-friendly 3km hike to a more challenging 35km route. Starting locations include Rhebokskloof, Spice Route and Knus Karoo Kombuis. The day pass options are super affordable.
A journey of discovery is still best done on foot. Stroll through the idyllic streets of Paarl and Wellington to learn more about the historic buildings and the towns’ legendary characters. Download the Voicemap mobile app and be transported by the self-guided heritage tours: Paarl Heritage Route – A story of pearls and wine and Wellington Heritage Route – Wagonmakers, Winemakers and Women Educators. Discover the historic attractions while an expert virtual guide relates interesting stories that capture the history and heritage of these Boland towns. The voice guide is available free of charge in English, Afrikaans and German.
The wine estates, restaurants and visitor attractions provide access for those whose mobility is restricted by permanent or temporary disability and offer plenty wheelchair accessible visitor experiences. Die Afrikaanse Taalmuseum en -monument, Paarl Museum, Spice Route Destination, The Alpaca Loom Coffee Shop and Weaving Studio and Wellington Museum are ideal places to explore.
Fabulous food should always form part of any visit and Paarl offers some great cuisine. Cattle Baron Grill & Bistro, Cucina Di Giovanni, FABER, Grande Roche Restaurant, La Paris Bistro and Noop come highly recommended. In Wellington, visitors can experience exceptional dining at The Grillroom at Val du Charron Wine and Leisure Estate, The Stone Kitchen at Dunstone Estate, Villamar Restaurant and Oude Wellington.
A visit to the region will be incomplete without stopping at the impressive wine farms. Enjoy affordable and accessible tasting experiences at Fairview, KWV Wine Emporium, Mellasat Vineyards, Nederburg Wine Farm, Perdeberg Winery, Rhebokskloof Wine Estate and Windmeul Kelder. The Wellington wine route is quite compact and visitors can revel in the products of the award-winning terroir and taste the wines of Bosman Family Vineyards, Doolhof Wine Estate and Wellington Wines.
Renowned for gracious hospitality, unparalleled scenic beauty and wide-open places, Paarl and Wellington have enough space to comfortably allow social distancing, while product owners are highly aware of COVID protocols and promote strict adherence to the guidelines.
With spring around the corner, now is the perfect time to create special memories, explore new places, meet new people and try out new things in Paarl and Wellington.
Follow @visitpaarl and @visitwellingtoza on social media to keep up to date with the latest seasonal offerings. Visit www.paarlonline.com and www.wellington.co.za for more information.
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