If ever there was a time to escape to the winelands, April is it.
The heat is mellowing, the vineyards are golden, and Paarl is serving up a month packed with flavour, fun, and a little mystery.
Whether you’re in it for the food, the wine, or just a good excuse to wander somewhere pretty, the Paarl Wine Route has your back. Here’s what’s happening (and yes, you’ll want to book ahead).
Brookdale Bistro Dinners – Because Cooking Is Overrated
Let’s be honest—cooler nights were made for good food and no dishes. Brookdale gets it. That’s why the Bistro at Brookdale is now open for dinner on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. It’s a slow-down-and-savour kind of place, where Chef Gary Coetzee dishes out soul-warming favourites like miso aubergine with homemade kimchi or tandoori lamb rump with baba ghanoush salad. Expect top-notch hospitality, a peaceful estate setting, and wines that make the whole experience sing. Whether it’s date night or just a night off from life, it’s well worth settling in for.
SecretEats Pops Up in Paarl (Shhh, It’s a Secret)
This one’s for the adventurous eaters: SecretEats is rolling into Paarl on 23 & 24 May. Here’s the deal—you don’t know where you’re going, who’s cooking, or what you’re eating until you show up. It’s like a culinary blind date, but way less awkward and a lot more delicious. Expect unexpected flavours, secret locations, and the kind of dining story you’ll want to humble-brag about for months. Just don’t snooze on tickets—they tend to disappear fast.
Babylonstoren: The April Escape You Deserve
Babylonstoren isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a full-on experience, and April is prime time to make the most of it. There are water buffalo to meet in the early morning, long lunches to linger over at Babel, and a Garden Spa that basically whispers, “you deserve this.” And let’s not forget the heated pool with mountain views, or the lookout drive followed by sundowners. Bonus? From 1 May to 31 August, stay four nights and only pay for three. Consider it an open invitation to unwind.
Windmeul Farmers’ Market – Local, Lively & Loaded with Wine
Mark your calendar for Saturday, 5 April—the Windmeul Farmers’ Market is back with all its local charm. Live music from Stefan le Roux sets the mood, while you sip, snack, and stock up on fresh produce, baked goods, and pantry essentials. It’s a kid-friendly affair too, with a play area to keep the little ones busy while you sip your way through the wine section (10% off all bottles on the day!).
Easter Fun at Rhebokskloof – For Kids, Grown-Ups & Everyone In Between
If you’ve got kids—or just love a good Easter egg hunt—Rhebokskloof Estate is the place to be from 18 to 21 April. We’re talking four full days of Easter festivities: egg hunts in the vineyards, face painting, jumping castles, a petting zoo, and a sweet station that’ll have everyone bouncing. Adults, fear not—there’s good food, great wine, and comfy seating with views to soak it all in. Tip: book a table at El Picoteo and make a day of it. Just remember—it’s a cashless event, so grab those tickets online.
Malbec & Chill at Perdeberg – 17 April
Celebrate World Malbec Day in style at Perdeberg Winery. On 17 April, visitors are treated to a free glass of Malbec and a sweet 15% discount on a box of Vineyard Collection Malbec 2023. Whether you’re a full-blown Malbec lover or just mildly curious, this is a delicious way to dive in. It’s casual, it’s classy, and yes—booking a table is highly recommended.
April in Paarl is basically a warm hug wrapped in good food and wine. Whether you’re after secret feasts, farm-fresh markets, or long lazy lunches, there’s something to sip, nibble, or celebrate. Just bring your appetite—and maybe a jacket.
