D'Ouwe Werf, South Africa

Contact a specialist about D'Ouwe Werf, South Africa

laura south africa

D'Ouwe Werf has so many unique selling points, the first being its great location right in the central of Stellenbosch. Second its unique history. Built on the site of the first church in the Dutch Colony the name translates as the 'Old Church'. As you walk through the entrance you are struck by the antique furnishings and Cape Dutch style decor. It certainly isn't lacking in character. You can even make your way down to the foundations of the old church on which the current building stands. Some rooms are better and more modern than others but all share the amenities and services. I would highly recommend this inn to anyone wanting to experience all of the town of Stellenbosch has to offer.

  • Laura Pattinson

Established in 1802, d'Ouwe Werf is South Africa's oldest and most historic hotel and has defined hospitality and fine dining for centuries. Guests enjoy the wonders of the Cape Winelands from the repose of the luxurious accommodation, situated in the historical core of the university town of Stellenbosch, only 45km from Cape Town, 20km from the sea and surrounded by beautiful mountains. Located on tranquil Church Street, d'Ouwe Werf retains the graceful ambience of Georgian style throughout. Soft hues and antique furniture have been tastefully aligned with the comforts of modern living to create a calm haven from which to base your explorations of Stellenbosch.

  • d' Ouwe Werf offers guests the perfect retreat from the bustling activities in Stellenbosch. A serene closure to your day might be spent beside the fire with a fine glass of port in the resident's lounge "de Kromme Elleboog" ("the raised elbow").
  • The location of d'Ouwe Werf is still the best in town. Situated on Church Street in the heart of the town it is within walking distance of museums, shops and restaurants within Stellenbosch.
  • The hotel is furnished with priceless antiques and there are several four-poster beds and magnificent brass and woodwork. During the day, you can read or chat in the soft light of the high-vaulted voorkamer, or take tea or a light meal in the coffee garden where white wrought-iron furniture, a water feature and shady vines overhead provide a restful ambiance in summer.
Accommodation:
32 en suite bedrooms, which are individually styled with antiques collected over the years. d' Ouwe Werf offers 4 types of rooms spread over 5 buildings. These include our Classic, Luxury, Superior and the newest addition, the Governors. The rooms either overlook the beautiful landscaped courtyard and garden, or Church Street. No two rooms are alike but there are enough similarities to classify the four types, available in both double and twin rooms.
Activities:
signature golf courses in close proximity to the town, guided historical village walks, wine tours and a variety of other activities that can be arranged from the hotel. A myriad shops, museums, art galleries and beautiful examples of Cape Dutch architecture are within easy walking distance of the hotel.
Facilities:
  • '1802' Restaurant,
  • vine-covered coffee garden,
  • wooden deck area,
  • lounge,
  • heated swimming pool,
  • fireplace,
  • wireless internet,
  • laundry service,
  • on-site skin care clinic,
  • in house tour guide,
  • bicycles,
  • 24 hour reception,
  • conference facilities and satellite TV.
Meal Basis:
Bed and Breakfast
Child Policy:
Children are welcome at d'Ouwe Werf

Client Comments

Just a quick few lines to express our thanks for your advice and professionalism which made our recent holiday to KwaZulu Natal truly memorable.

All arrangements went to plan, all the lodges from our overnight start in Teremok Durban to the fabulous Makakatana in St Lucia were superbly chosen to suit our needs and in every cases exceeded our expectati... more
Derek and Breda, KwaZulu Natal South Africa, October 2009

view more