Paarl Wine and Tourism

Paarl Wine and Tourism is the Destination Marketing Organisation for Paarl, South Africa's third oldest settlement founded in 1687, located just 45 minutes from Cape Town in the Drakenstein Valley. Named after the iconic granite outcrop on Paarl Mountain that glistens like a pearl after rain, Paarl represents the gateway to the Cape Winelands. The organisation promotes the town's rich cultural heritage, including the Afrikaans Language Monument commemorating the world's youngest language, and historic architecture spanning Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, and Cape Dutch styles along its twelve-kilometre Main Street.

Operating from the Paarl Visitor Information Centre at 216 Main Road, they showcase award-winning wine farms renowned for Shiraz, Chenin Blanc, and Pinotage, diverse accommodation options, exceptional restaurants, and attractions including Drakenstein Prison where Nelson Mandela completed his "long walk to freedom." The organisation is passionate about connecting visitors with Paarl's country hospitality, spectacular mountain scenery, and status as the Pearl of the Winelands.