The town of Paarl in the winelands region of the Western Cape Province in South Africa lies on the Berg River and was established in 1657 by Abraham Gabbema. It takes its name from the very large and smooth granite rocks crowning the ridge overlooking the town, which are thought to resemble a pearl and is the second largest granite outcrop in the world.
This lovely picturesque town is only a 40 minute drive from Cape Town and teems with places of architectural and historical interest as well as offering wine lovers an excellent collection of nearby estates offering a superb opportunity to sample Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, Shiraz, Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc varieties and the chance to dine at very good restaurants and to experience the scenic beauty of the area.
Paarl like many other towns in the Cape Winelands is a prosperous community with lovely Cape Dutch houses that are beautifully maintained, have lovely gardens and are situated on oak tree lined streets. The 12 km long main road is the longest in the country with buildings that present a montage of the most outstanding examples of Cape Dutch, Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco architecture.
Paarl was where the foundations of the Afrikaans language were established by a group called the Genootskap van regte Afrikaners and on the slopes of the Paarl Mountain there is a monument to the Afrikaans Language. Just outside Paarl is Drakenstein Prison where Nelson Mandela started his walk to freedom after spending his last years of imprisonment there.
Visitors will find a host of interesting places to see and things to do for adults and children alike. Accommodation is available to suit all tastes and budgets.
