Wellington, steeped in history and tradition, has a magical atmosphere that will captivate you once you discover the town, its people and its myriad of attractions.
Originally known as Limiet Vallei (border or frontier valley), the area became known as Val du Charron or Wagenmakersvallei (Valley of the Wagon Maker) towards the end of the 17th century when the French Huguenots settled here.
After the eventual establishment of the town in 1840, the name was changed to Wellington in honour of the renowned soldier and conqueror of Napoleon at the battle of Waterloo.
Nestling at the foot of the Groenberg, the town lies in a picturesque valley on the banks of the Kromme River with the majestic Hawekwa mountains silent sentinels on its eastern border. The town is a mere 45 minutes' drive from Cape Town and within easy reach of all the other Boland towns.
Wellington is, of course, known for its educational institutions. Huguenot College, an institution of the Dutch Reformed Church, offers training to students in social, youth and missionary work.
Wellingtont offers a compact 26-member wine route comprising of 2 large producer cellars, proud wine estates from many generations, a sprinkling of garagiste and 4 potstill producers, all within easy driving distance from one another.
In the last couple of years Wellington has received an impressive array of accolades for their wines, locally and abroad.
The fact that the majority of South Africa's vine cutting nurseries are found in the Wellington area, is due to the excellent soils and climate of the region.
Wellington boasts two leather factories producing beautiful and quality leather products. Furthermore there are towel factory shops, fruit juice kiosks selling to the public, glassware gift shops and many other places to browse around in addition to the more prominent chain stores.
The town is well equipped with all medical and emergency services and branches of all the main banks in South Africa.
