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Paarl

Outside of Cape Town, Paarl sits as a picturesqe and diverse town known for its production of wine, and for its sweeping, panoramic landscapes of granite outcropping and vineyards. As one of the older European settlements, Paarl has been shaped by a distinct yet multifaceted history of European settlers and local tribes, such as the Khoikhoi and the San peoples. Architecture along the Main Road is eclectic; driving along, you will see samplings of Art Deco, Victorian, Edwardian and Cape Dutch styles. The Paarl Valley offers many opportunities for outdoor exploration, either by horseback, hiking trails or hot air balloon. Visit the dramatic Taalmonument on Paarl Mountain, which is a testament to the many languages that have shaped the Afrikaans dialect. Here, you can access hiking and biking trails and catch spectacular views of the Winelands below. Also nearby is the Limietberg Nature Reserve and Le Bonheur Crocodile Farm. Relax after site-seeing with a glass of wine at the many wineries in the area.