10 Things To Do in Tulbagh, South Africa

If you’re craving a peaceful weekend escape filled with horses, mountain views, and small-town charm, Tulbagh is calling your name.

Just 90 minutes from Cape Town, this underrated gem offers a perfect mix of nature, history, and slow-living luxury. We recently spent a few days exploring this historic town, and we’ve rounded up our favourite things to do in Tulbagh, things that are off the beaten track. AND, if you don't want the fuss of planning, or want to ensure the perfect trip, we’ve created an affordable, ready-to-go itinerary for your trip.

Whether you're into hiking, spa days, boutique wine estates, or just strolling along heritage streets with a coffee in hand, Tulbagh has something for you.

Here are some must-see things to do in Tulbagh:

1. Stroll/Cycle down Church Street

One of the oldest heritage streets in the country, Church Street is packed with beautifully preserved Cape Dutch buildings, museums, and cozy cafes. It’s walkable, photogenic, and a great intro to Tulbagh’s soul.

2. All the Museums

Tulbagh has a ton of museums. You can actually get a package entry into some! Check out the Earthquake Museum, Oude Kerk Volsmuseum, and Christo Coetzee Musuem.

3. Horse Riding

We went for an early morning ride through olive groves and vineyards with mountain views all around. It was absolutely magical, and we recommend it 100%.

4. Hiking

Are you even in South Africa if you don't mention a hike? Our favourite easy, short recommendation is the waterfall hike at the Waterval Nature Reserve.

5. Vindoux Tree House

If you have the time, book a massage or facial treatment here. This dreamy spa overlooks vineyards and has so many awesome treatments to choose from. By the time you leave, all that stress will have melted away and you'll feel brand new.

6. Chocolate or cheese tasting

One of our favourite things to do in Tulbagh. With plenty of farms around the area, you can't go wrong with any kind of tasting!

7. For the adventurers

This is technically outside Tulbagh, but still worth a mention. Fynbos Guest Farm and Animal Sanctuary is home to rescued animals, and you can spend a whole day walking around, zipline, or visit their farmstall. Alternatively in Tulbagh, gave some fun and go on a tractor ride!

8. Bosjes

This chapel-meets-bistro-meets-botanical garden is an architectural masterpiece. Definitely worth the 30-minute drive. We've been multiple times, but its grandeur is stunning each time.

9. Local Artisan Stores

There are so many little and big artisan stores cluttered around Tulbagh. Just take a walk along the Main Road to see what interests you!

10. Bainskloof Pass Drive

This winding, scenic pass connects Tulbagh and Wellington and is filled with picnic spots and mountain viewpoints. Did you know that it's now a national monument? Make sure your camera is ready!

Overall, Tulbagh is not a place to rush. We completely switched off in one weekend there, because it's just that easy.