PAARL
what to do | where to stay | where to eat | services | home Paarl, fondly referred to as “the pearl of the Western Cape”, offers the second largest granite outcrop in the world. On top of this geological splendor, one can enjoy the scenic beauty for which Paarl has become renowned. A valley surrounded by mountains, rich fauna and flora. The Khoikhoi and San were the first people to utilize this area. San rock art can still be seen at nearby Wemmershoek and Bainskloof. Today, Paarl is the third oldest European settlement in South Africa with a culturally diverse community. In 1687, Governor Simon van der Stel granted the first farms to Dutch settlers on the banks of the Berg River. Visitors to Paarl will still find many vineyards in and around the residential neighborhoods, adding to the unique character of the town. Today the headquarters of the South African wine industry, the KWV, is situated in Paarl. They offer a variety of unique experiences to visitors. In 1975 Paarl became home to the Afrikaans Language Monument. The monument was erected to commemorate the Afrikaans language which derived from Dutch and is now approximately 300 years old. Paarl is home to a prosperous community with many well maintained and attractive Cape Dutch houses, beautiful gardens and streets lined with old oak trees. The famous 11,2 km long Main Street features among other the Strooidak Church, the oldest and most historic church in South Africa and still in use today. In 1990 Paarl made the headlines when Nelson Mandela completed his long walk to freedom after being released from the nearby Victor Verster (now Drakenstein) Prison. To the golf enthusiast Paarl offers some of the worlds best golf courses, such as Pearl Valley and Boschenmeer Golf Estate - the ideal golf breakaway. In addition to the array of attractions, scenic drives, hiking trails, wine tasting opportunities and excellent restaurants, Paarl houses a number of large agricultural, manufacturing and financial headquarters making it the largest town in the Cape Winelands. Paarl Tourism Info
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