Somerset West
Somerset West is located at the foot of the Helderberg Mountains in the Western Cape. The wonderful Mediterranean climate and the relatively short distance to Cape Town (45 km), the sea at Strand and Gordon’s Bay, the beautiful wine countries and mountains make Somerset West a popular place for tourists from all over the world. Historic Stellenbosch is also a stone’s throw away.
Somerset West was named after the British Governor Lord Charles Somerset in 1819 after farmers from the Vergelegen estate asked permission to build a church around which the village slowly grew. The designation West was added in 1850 so as not to be confused with Somerset East in the Eastern Cape.
The side streets of Somerset West mainroad have cozy shops specializing in all kinds of wares, but you can really shop in the Somerset Mall! The Heathersage Market where you buy your organic products and the market with live music at Blauwklippen are nice places to be on Saturday or Sunday.
One of the oldest buildings in the village is Die Ou Pastorie and today you will find a guesthouse with restaurant here. Outside the village you will find the beautiful wine countries of which Vergelegen is perhaps the best known. Once founded by Simon van der Stel in 1685, it is still a beautiful estate, with breathtaking views and superb wines. But also Lourensford and Morgenster the closest neighbors are worth a visit and of course all those other wine estates in and around Somerset West where you can enjoy delicious food as well as delicious wines.
Golf enthusiasts are catered for here, because there are numerous Golf courses in and around Somerset West. Erinvale golf is the most discussed and most special golf course and not least for its beautiful view.
If you are in Somerset West with children, you can visit Monkey Town. Here you will find 27 different types of monkeys and all kinds of birds and farm animals. There is also a playground where children can enjoy themselves.
