Located just 20 minutes to the north of Cape Town, Durbanville is a charming and historic area that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Originally known as Pampoenkraal (meaning "pumpkin fold"), the area was named after a meeting place for local farmers, who gathered around freshwater springs nestled beyond the Durbanville Hills. Over time, the settlement grew and was later renamed Durbanville, after Sir Benjamin D'Urban, the governor of the Cape between 1834 and 1838. This picturesque region lies within a stunning valley, and over the centuries, it has become one of the most treasured corners of the Western Cape. Perhaps its best-kept secret is the Durbanville Wine Route, a delightful and often underappreciated gem of Cape Town's wine-growing areas. The valley’s climate and terroir create the perfect conditions for cultivating premium wines, and many visitors are surprised to discover the world-class offerings right on Cape Town’s doorstep. Wine farming in Durbanville dates back to the 17th century when the first vineyards were planted by early settlers. At that time, the white grape variety Cape Madeira was the most popular, and vineyards were established around the fertile land that now forms part of the modern wine route.
