Lifestyle and Decor

Lifestyle and property in Paarl

Private Property South Africa
Kit Heathcock |
Lifestyle and property in Paarl

The historical town of Paarl is one of the oldest, most beautiful neighbourhoods in South Africa.

About the area

Surrounded by vineyards, mountains and spectacular views, Paarl is the third oldest settlement in the Cape and well rooted in its history as a farming community, with beautiful buildings lining the 12km Main Street and a wealth of wine estates on its doorstep. “Because Paarl is such an old town, the architecture is pretty spectacular,” says Sam Taylor, who moved here six years ago. “Old Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian and Cape Dutch buildings, many of which are restored and beautifully maintained, give Paarl a uniquely Cape feel.”

The reputation of its schools and the country lifestyle have attracted many new families over recent years and the town has grown exponentially, but there is still a small-town feel with a backbone of long-term residents who were born and bred in the area, and a strong community vibe sustained by school events, church fetes, food festivals and old-fashioned hospitality. Another attraction for newcomers is the secure estate living complete with golf courses, tennis courts and swimming pools, offered by several prestigious new developments such as Val de Vie, Pearl Valley and Boschenmeer, as well as easy access to the N1 for those commuting the 45 minutes to Cape Town or the airport.

It’s an active town with a host of sports facilities – from athletics stadiums to cricket pitches, a canoeing club, cycle tracks and more – but even without organised sports, the outdoors beckon with excellent hiking and mountain biking. Hiking up Paarl Rock isn’t just for tourists; kids love clambering over the granite rocks and family braais or summer picnics here are a must. If a lazy weekend lunch is more your thing, you’re spoilt for choice for neighbouring wine estates with gorgeous views, great food and of course wine, and the town has a growing array of cool coffee shops and stylish shopping including the historical farm building now renovated as Frater Square.

“Living in Paarl affords us the country living kind of lifestyle we enjoy, while still giving us access to anything we may need. The Paarl valley is so beautiful; we are surrounded on all sides by mountains and vineyards and the views are something that we never tire of.” Sam Taylor, resident

Things to do:

  • Concerts and stargazing picnics at the Taal Monument
  • Hiking up Paarl Rock
  • Parkrun at Paarl Arboretum on Saturdays
  • Farmers’ Market at Windmeul Winery the first Saturday of the month
  • Backsberg Picnic Concerts in summer

Top schools:

  • Paarl Boys’ High School
  • Paarl Girls’ High school
  • Paarl Gimnasium
  • La Rochelle Girls’ High School
  • Bridge House School

Best in food:

  • Pizzeria at Under Oaks Wine Farm: for wood-fired pizzas
  • The Goatshed at Fairview: for breakfast, lunch and cheese platters
  • Bread & Butter: for coffee and cake
  • Kikka: for breakfast, lunch and coffee
  • Wilderer Distillery’s Pappa Grappa Ristorante: for Italian and German family food
  • Bertus Basson at Spice Route: for authentic South Africa dining

This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.

Explore neighbourhoods mentioned in this article

Paarl to Franschhoek
Serenity amongst the hills and vineyards
Surrounded by serenity and splendour, the area between Paarl and Franschhoek is simply breathtaking wherever you look. The locals are friendly, helpful people and this area attracts tourists from all over the world. There is an abundance of activities, from historical monuments to quaint farm markets, there's never a dull day here. Paarl offers residents a feeling of safety and security, and a supportive, intimate community. It's a great neighbourhood for families and young couples wanting to be away from busy city life.

Related Articles

Spotlight on Claremont
Kit Heathcock | 25 Aug 2015

Spotlight on Claremont

Excellent schools, a central location, neighbourhood parks and lots of coffee shops – Claremont ticks all the boxes.

Spotlight on Hillcrest
Cath Jenkin | 23 Sep 2015

Spotlight on Hillcrest

Situated on the ridge of a main road that runs from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, Hillcrest has become far more than the sleepy hollow it once was.

Rietvalleirand area and property guide
Betsie Loock-Van der Merwe | 16 Mar 2017

Rietvalleirand area and property guide

Outstanding estates that offer an excellent lifestyle have led to high demand in this laid back area.

sample image of property alerts

Get instant property alerts

Be the first to see property alerts for your area.
;