Share This Article
When the Cape winter sets in, the best outings are the ones that do not ask too much of you.
A scenic drive, a good lunch, something warm in hand, a little browsing, a little tasting, and no need to dash between venues in the rain.
This is where Spice Route Destination in Paarl comes into its own.
Set against the backdrop of the Paarl Winelands, Spice Route offers an easy winter day out where visitors can eat, taste, shop and linger in one place. It is the kind of destination that works for slow Saturdays, school-holiday planning, visiting family, or those “we need to get out the house” winter moments that usually arrive just after lunch.
Food is the natural starting point. Visitors can settle in for a long winter lunch at Jewell’s restaurant, where seasonal produce and generous plates make staying a while feel like the plan all along.
For something more relaxed, La Grapperia Pizza and Bistro offers pizza, comfort food and a laid-back atmosphere that suits families, friends and anyone avoiding another afternoon indoors.
The tasting options add to the appeal. It also offers pinsa, the lighter, crispier Roman-style take on pizza, and one of the few places along this stretch of the Cape where visitors can enjoy it.
Wine tastings at Spice Route Wines, indoor sipping and slower experiences make the destination the ideal cold-weather choice, especially when the idea of an outdoor-only outing feels overly optimistic. Add in tea experiences at Nigiro Tea and browsing at The Trading Company, and the day quickly becomes less about ticking boxes and more about taking your time.
It is also a useful option with the school holidays around the corner. Instead of waiting until everyone is bored, hungry and scrolling for ideas, plan the winter outing early.
For Cape Town visitors, it is a manageable day trip. For Paarl locals, it is an easy reminder that some of the best winter plans are close to home.
Pick a lunch spot, book if needed, leave room for a tasting, browse slowly, and do not rush the view. Winter may not be the season for beach bags and late sunsets, but it is very much the season for Winelands comfort.
Spice Route Destination is open seven days a week, with individual tenant trading hours varying.
Visitors are encouraged to check current opening times and make bookings directly via www.spiceroute.co.za before visiting.