The Paarl Wine Route, which is the second oldest in the country, is known for its full-bodied spicy reds and crisp whites. Shiraz is the most important varietal from the area, but Paarl wineries also produce remarkable chenin blanc, chardonnay, pinotage, viognier and mourvedre. The third oldest settlement in South Africa, Paarl is steeped in history and culture. But there’s far more to it than that! While the town is close enough for a day adventure – just an hour’s drive from Cape Town – you’ll probably want to make a weekend of it.