Going thru Stellensboch on the way to Franschboek (sp?) any must see wineries, lunch places? thanks, we prefer more quaint places as opposed to huge commercial places. thanks

Skip Spier. Then meander as you desire.
There are many places to see en-route to Franschoek.

Stellenbosch is a nice town - there are some interesting shops and the university campus is quite attractive - but the appeal of the area is the scenery, especially if you are going to Franschhoek. From Cape Town, one of our favourite day trips is what I believe is called "the Four Passes Route" - N2 from CT over Sir Lowrey's Pass to Grabouw (stop at Peregrine Farm Stall - great breads, pies, muffins, dried fruit etc). From Grabouw, north on the R321 over Viljoen's Pass towards Villiersdorp. South of Villiersdorp, head northwest on th R45 over the Franschhoek Pass to Franschhoek. Finally, on the M12 over the Helshoogte Pass to Stellenbosch and then (still on the M12)back onto the N2 to CT - taking in both Franschhoek and Stellenbosch. You, of course, could do this trip in reverse. Some of our favourite wineries on this route - Cabriere (great cellar), Boschendale (beautiful estate), Rustenberg (great reds!) and - if you have children traveling with you - Spier for the cheetahs (you can pay to cuddle a cub) and dinner in a treehouse (but reserve a treehouse in advance - you can do this online - the restaurant is called Moyo)! Robin

Bkmk

If you're interested in plants and gardens, the Botanic Garden affiliated with the university in Stellenbosch is worth a stop. Good little outdoor cafe there also, for lunch or refreshments.