A trip to Stanford is a memorable endeavour. From the Mountains on the ocean’s edge to the vineyards and historical buildings, it is an experience offering something for everyone.
To make the most of your time in Stanford there are a few things that you need to experience. We have collated the most memorable experiences you can have in the historic Western Cape town.
Stanford Mountain Rides
The African Horse Company is based on the Stanford Hills Estate. They offer horse rides through the mountain ranges that surround Stanford. Rides vary from 1-hour to a few days.
This is an experience you won’t soon forget as you traverse the floral kingdom of the Klein River Mountains and the white beaches that the Overberg offers. Connect with your horse and nature surrounding you on a magical mountain ride.
Nature Quad Biking
If you would prefer to travel through the nature on offer in Stanford with more muscle power, quad biking could be an option for you. Quad biking tours are guided and take place on the Mosaic Private Sanctuary.
The tours offer views of spectacular sites from the area’s iconic lagoon to views of the Southern Right Whales from the top of sand dunes. This will be a ride through the lagoon wetlands surrounded by fynbos that you will treasure.
Whale watching
The Overberg offers some of the best views to go whale watching in the world. If you are staying in Stanford a short trip to Hermanus will provide you with views of whales right on the water’s edge.
The nearby town of De Kelders offers a more private view of the whales at the right time of year. However, if you are looking for a secluded view of these majestic beasts look no further than the Walker Bay Nature Reserve. The reserve offers a sheltered bay where you can see whales playing in the ocean with the occasional dolphin known to be spotted.
Village markets
Stanford is home to a number of markets that celebrate good food and good company. Saturday mornings see a market take place in the courtyard next to Stanford Art Café on Queen Victoria Street. The market offers a variety of foods, preserves and plants.
On the last Friday of every month, the Stanford Sunset Market takes place. It is on the historic Market Square in the town and offers live music, local wine, craft beer, artisanal food and much more. If you are in town on the last Friday of the month make sure to check this one out.
River cruise
Set on the Klein River Stanford offers the perfect river getaway. Spend a day out on the water on one of the river cruises available.
The two most popular boats to go out on a river cruise are the African Queen Stanford and Lady Stanford. Both offer a unique experience of the water with views of the fabulous wildlife in the area.
Walking the town
If you need a day to relax from the adventure of the area, meandering through the old town might be just what you need. Take a walk through the small town and discover its intriguing history.
Before your walk, make sure to stop by the Stanford tourism office to get a brief on the historic sites to look out for.
The Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary
One of the memorable experiences you can have in Stanford is to visit big cats at the Panthera Sanctuary. The sanctuary homes big cats that were previously kept in captivity and ensures that these animals now live a humane existence.
The Panthera Big Cat Sanctuary has different visiting hours depending on the season. All visits need to be booked ahead of time to enjoy this remarkable experience.
Indulge in decadent dining
What more could you want out of a trip to the Overberg than good food and good company? On any trip to Stanford make sure to indulge in the restaurants the town has available.
If you’re wondering where to start, have a look at our recommendations of the best restaurants in Stanford. Eat and drink to your heart’s content at some of the finest restaurants in the Western Cape.
Wine and Beer Tasting
You cannot spend time in the Western Cape and not enjoy wine tasting on one of the many farms in the area. If you prefer a brew then you can enjoy a beer tasting at one of the first South African breweries, Birkenhead brewery.
A wine or beer tasting in Stanford is a relaxing activity that consists of good wine, incredible views and good company.
Stay at Perivoli Lagoon House
We would be doing you a disservice if we did not include Perivoli Lagoon House as an experience you need to have in Stanford. Our ultramodern luxury villa overlooks the Klein River lagoon between Stanford and Hermanus, offering spectacular views of the Walker Conservancy with access to an 18-km isolated beach.
Perivoli is secluded, yet convenient, offering endless experiences at the villa, including guided fynbos walks, kayaking, quad biking, birding, boat cruises, mountain biking and more, as well as easy access to some of the best experiences in the surrounding Overberg area. Enquire about a stay at Perivoli Lagoon House today.
