Just off the N1, between Cape Town’s northern suburbs and the Cape Winelands, Joostenberg Vlakte is where the city gives way to farmland. It’s a rural pocket of wine estates, family fun and farm stalls, and it makes an easy first stop on the road to Klapmuts, Paarl and Stellenbosch.

What The Gravel took a drive out to see what the Joostenberg Corridor has to offer.

Where It Is

Joostenberg Vlakte lies in the Western Cape’s Cape Winelands, right on the doorstep of Cape Town’s northern suburbs. It’s roughly 35 to 40 minutes from central Cape Town, and is reached from the N1 and the R304. The main roads are tar, with gravel farm roads close by for those who want to get off the highway.

A Little History

The area takes its name from the old Joostenberg farm, and the land has been farmed for centuries. That heritage lives on at Joostenberg Wine Estate, which is still family-owned and organically farmed.

To start

Take exit x to Lucullus road and take the first left, Tarrentaal street to visit the Cape Garden Centre and Bugs Playpark (weekends and school holidays

What to See and Do

• Wijnland Auto Museum: a classic car collection for motoring fans.
• Bugz Family Playpark: billed as the largest playpark in the Western Cape, with a huge outdoor playground. They are only open on Saturdays, Sundays, and School Holidays.
• The Cape Garden Centre offers a unique experience as well, with an on-site restaurant, and a few note-worthy shops.
• Joostenberg Wine Estate: organic wines and farm experiences.
• Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness Centre: a wildlife centre on 15 hectares between Klapmuts and Stellenbosch.
• Gravel back roads: a slower way to see the farmland, away from the tar.

A Must See:

Coming soon…

Where to Eat and Drink

The area is well served by farm-style eateries and winelands restaurants, from relaxed breakfast spots to estate lunches. Travellers will find plenty of choice within a short drive.

Our stops of choice are:

• the Jolly Roger
• the Pink Geranium nursery ( coffee stop)

Where to Sleep

Expect self-catering studios, flats and guest cottages, many with views over the Protea Heights hills and the Cape Winelands. Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek are all a short drive away if you want more options.

We decided to pay a visit at…(coming soon)

Practical Info

• Fuel, ATMs, groceries and pharmacies: best found in nearby Klapmuts and Durbanville.
• Cell signal: generally good, but it can drop on gravel roads.
• Tourism offices: the nearest are in Stellenbosch and Paarl.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and autumn offer mild weather and green or golden vineyards. Summer is hot, but perfect for long estate lunches in the shade.

WTG Insider Tips

• Combine Joostenberg Vlakte with Klapmuts and the Drakenstein Lion Park for a full day out.
• Ask at the wine estates about quieter gravel routes through the farmland.

Nearby

Klapmuts, Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are all within easy reach.

Our journey continues…