Uncover the Rich History of Stellenbosch in the Heart of Joburg

Hey there! Have you ever wondered about the fascinating stories hidden within Stellenbosch, right here in Joburg? Well, I’m about to take you on an incredible journey through time.

Picture this: It’s the 17th century, and Stellenbosch is a bustling town in the Cape Colony. As I stroll through the charming streets, I can’t help but marvel at the beautiful Cape Dutch architecture that adorns so many of the buildings. Each one seems to have its own tale to tell.

Did you know that Stellenbosch University, founded in 1866, is one of the oldest universities in South Africa? As I explore the campus, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder, knowing that this institution has been shaping young minds for over a century.

Stellenbosch is not only known for its academic excellence but also for its world-renowned wine. The region’s fertile soil and ideal climate make it the perfect place for vineyards to thrive. Just imagine sipping on a glass of award-winning wine while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding vineyards. It’s pure bliss!

But Stellenbosch is not all about history and wine. It’s a vibrant town with a lively arts and culture scene. The Oude Libertas Amphitheatre is a hub of creativity, hosting concerts, theater performances, and even art exhibitions. It’s a place where talent flourishes, and you never know what masterpiece awaits you.

As I stroll through the Stellenbosch Museum, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia. The artifacts and exhibits tell the stories of the people who have lived here, their triumphs, their struggles, and everything in between. It’s like stepping into a time machine and immersing yourself in the past.

So, whether you’re a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or simply looking for a little adventure, Stellenbosch has something to offer you. Come and discover the rich history and vibrant culture of this incredible town right here in the heart of Joburg. You won’t be disappointed!

Ah, the good ol’ days… Those magical words that transport us back in time, wrapping us in warmth and nostalgia. It’s like taking a stroll down memory lane, where everything seems slower and simpler.

Believe it or not, but what is now known as the Indaba Hotel in Fourways, Johannesburg, used to be a popular day trip destination. Yes, you heard it right! About seventy years ago, this magnificent establishment went by the name of the Little Rose Neath Hotel and stood proudly amidst the tranquil countryside. People flocked to this hidden gem to enjoy its famous Sunday lunches served at a cozy little restaurant on the premises. Back then, this charming thatched hotel boasted a modest 14 rooms.

Throughout the years, I’ve found myself returning to the Indaba Hotel in different roles. In the past, I attended conferences there when I was working with numbers. I even lived near the hotel at one point and drove past it every day. Now, as fate would have it, I work with words, and recently, I had the opportunity to visit the hotel once more.

A welcoming upgrade

As I arrived at the Indaba Hotel, I immediately noticed that it had received an upgrade. The original thatch roof was still present, but now the public areas had a modern touch with clean lines. The decor featured a tasteful combination of yellow and gold, paying homage to the hotel’s rural roots.

I couldn’t believe my luck when I stumbled upon this hidden gem. The vast and inviting grounds were a dream come true for leisurely walks, a true rarity considering the constant urban expansion happening all around.

Indulge in a feast

I found myself drawn to the Courtyard Café, nestled beneath a canopy of ancient trees. It was the perfect place to unwind and plan my day’s adventures. In the scorching summer months, the foliage offered a much-needed respite from the blistering African sun. But during my visit in autumn, the trees transformed into a breathtaking tapestry of warm, vibrant hues, a beautiful signal of the changing seasons.

When you visit the Chief’s Boma restaurant with a vibrant African theme, you have the option of enjoying lunch or dinner. However, I suggest going in the evening for a truly memorable experience. As the sun sets, this place comes alive with lively music that fills the entire boma, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration. It’s truly a feast for the senses!

But that’s not all – the restaurant has recently undergone an upgrade, and now features a fantastic cocktail lounge. So, why not complement your evening with a delicious Lavender Pina Colada, one of their special signature cocktails? The bar staff will be more than happy to prepare it for you.

The Chief’s Boma restaurant offers an authentic African experience like no other. It’s a place where you can indulge in delicious food, enjoy fantastic music, and sip on unique cocktails. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this is a must-visit destination that will leave you with wonderful memories.

Free Time? No Problem!

At the Indaba Hotel, you won’t have to worry about what to do during your downtime. There are so many options available that it’s impossible to be bored!

Let me introduce you to some of the fantastic activities you can enjoy without even leaving the premises. First up is the luxurious Mowana Spa, where you can pamper yourself with a range of treatments. From massages to facials, you’ll emerge feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The skilled therapists there really know how to melt away stress and tension.

If you’re a fan of gin, you’ll be delighted to know that the hotel has a Gin School. It’s a unique experience where you can learn about the fascinating history and production process of this popular spirit. Not only will you expand your knowledge, but you’ll also have the opportunity to create your very own personalized gin. Imagine impressing your friends with a custom-made bottle!

Wine enthusiasts will find their paradise at the Indaba Hotel’s Wine Tasting Room. Get ready to embark on a journey of flavors as you sample a variety of carefully selected wines. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you through the tasting process, teaching you about different wine regions, grape varieties, and food pairing suggestions. It’s an experience that will enhance your appreciation for the art of winemaking.

Of course, if you simply want to relax and unwind in the comfort of your own room, that’s an excellent choice too. With its cozy ambiance and thoughtful amenities, your room provides the perfect retreat. Whether you curl up with a good book, catch up on your favorite shows, or take a blissful nap, the hours will effortlessly slip away.

So, what will you do during your free time at the Indaba Hotel? The possibilities are endless, and the decision is all yours. Choose the activity that speaks to your interests and enjoy every moment. After all, this is your time to relax, have fun, and create lasting memories.

Welcome to the Baobab Tree Spa! Our spa takes its name from the magnificent Baobab tree and is the perfect place for a relaxing wellness journey. Surrounded by peaceful countryside, our treatments are specially designed to rejuvenate your tired soul and help you make the most of your downtime. But that’s not all – we have something unique to offer: the Gin School!

Our Gin School is a brilliant concept that will take your experience to a whole new level. Right here on our property, you have the opportunity to create your own bottle of the finest juniper-inspired delight. It’s a fun and exciting way to add a personal touch to your visit.

But what really grabbed my interest was the Wine Tasting Room.

The Spier Wine Experience

In October 2021, the Indaba Hotel unveiled the groundbreaking Spier Wine Experience. This one-of-a-kind space was created by the renowned Stellenbosch winery, which was recently honored as one of the top 100 vineyards in the world. I discovered that the hotel offered tastings of the exclusive Spier Creative Block wine selection, and that’s when I decided to spend my afternoon there.

Welcome to the Creative Block Project! Here, I invite talented artists, both established and emerging, to unleash their creativity on small, blank blocks. They create unique and exciting artworks, which are then reviewed and critiqued. The best pieces are immediately purchased from the artists, and guess what? You can own one too!

At Spier, we took this project to the next level. We realized that there’s a beautiful connection between the art we create and the wine we produce. That’s why we decided to name our special wine range after the Creative Block Project. Allow me to introduce you to our award-winning Creative Block 2, 3, and 5 wines. You can even taste them at the Spier Wine Experience!

I went for a walk around the property and stumbled upon the tasting room nestled beneath majestic, old trees. As I entered, I was greeted by a cozy atmosphere adorned with rich wooden furnishings and soft, textured fabrics. The vibrant bursts of color from the yellow-framed seating added a lively touch to the space. If the weather permits, you can even choose to savor your tasting experience on the terrace, basking in the gentle sunlight that filters through the ancient oak trees. And now, let’s move on to the highlight of the visit – the chocolates!

When I met Katleho Maunye for my Creative Block Tasting, I was thrilled to learn that each wine would be accompanied by a handpicked chocolate made by a talented Cape chocolatier. Our journey began with a glass of the Spier Cap Classique Brut 2018. To my surprise, Katleho suggested using this sparkling wine as a palate cleanser between tastings because of its refreshing acidity. This unique approach was a revelation to me and truly enhanced my enjoyment of each subsequent chocolate and wine pairing.

Let me tell you about Creative Block 2, a special type of wine that blends Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon grapes. To make it even more interesting, they fermented a small part of the Sémillon in French oak barrels. This little twist gives the blend a bit of complexity and a creamy, buttery texture when you take a sip.

Now, when it comes to enjoying this wine, I had a unique experience. They paired it with a cape floral white chocolate that was bursting with flavors of white peach and orange blossom. The person guiding me advised against chewing the chocolate but instead suggested letting it mix with the wine in my mouth.

And let me tell you, it was a delightful surprise! The chocolate actually enhanced the creamy feeling of the wine, making the whole experience even bolder and more flavorful.

So if you’re a fan of interesting blends and enjoy experimenting with different flavors, you’ll definitely love Creative Block 2. Give it a try and let your taste buds be amazed!

So, there’s this wine called Creative Block 3, which is a cool combo of three different grapes. It was kinda tricky to figure out what it would taste like just by smelling it. I mean, it smelled one way but ended up being really smooth when I drank it. They mix together Shiraz, Mourvèdre, and Viognier to make this cool blend, which has this fancy spice flavor. What I thought was interesting about the blend was how it had this nice zingy taste from the Viognier grapes. The wine went really well with this dark chocolate that had spices from the coast. It had a hint of nutmeg and a touch of cinnamon. It was a surprising combo, but it totally worked.

So, I tried the Creative Block 5 wine, which is a mix of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. It’s an interesting blend because the Merlot helps to balance out the Cabernet Sauvignon’s boldness. I can imagine myself sipping on this wine on a cozy Sunday afternoon, curled up by the fire with a good book. I paired it with a dark chocolate made with orchid berries, and let me tell you, the flavors really came alive on my tongue when combined with the wine.

If you want to check out the Spier Wine Experience, keep in mind that it’s only open from Wednesday to Sunday, and you need to make a reservation. Besides the Creative Block Tasting, they also offer two other signature wine tastings (21 Gables or Seaward) and the Winemaker’s Selection Tasting.

Hey there!

Let me tell you a cool story about how wine tasting used to be limited to the Western Cape, but not anymore! Thanks to the amazing Indaba Hotel, you can now experience a wide variety of delicious wines right here in Joburg.

If you want to hear more about Ryan’s exciting adventures in and around Joburg, you’re in the right place. Stick around!

By the way, don’t forget to take a look at Ryan’s pictures. They’re really something!

Oh, and before you go, make sure you check out The 25 Best Restaurants in Stellenbosch. You won’t regret it!

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