Exploring the Stellenbosch Winelands from Oude Werf
The Stellenbosch Winelands begin just beyond the oak-lined streets of town, where one wine estate leads naturally to the next. It’s one of the world’s great wine...
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About Us
Welcome to Our Stellenbosch
About Oude Werf Hotel
You don’t just arrive at Oude Werf Hotel, you exhale. As South Africa’s oldest running hotel, our walls have spent three centuries learning the art of the welcome. We have replaced the frantic pace of the modern world with a rhythmic, grounded stillness; a place where you can go back to your authentic self.
What We Stand For
Oude Werf has always been a place where people feel welcome. Rooted in the heart of Stellenbosch, we believe that genuine hospitality is about more than beautiful surroundings. It’s about people, local knowledge and the small, thoughtful moments that make every stay feel personal.
While our history stretches back centuries, our focus is always on today’s guest. Every arrival is a new story, every conversation a new connection, and every visit another chapter in the continuing story of Oude Werf.
Our history
Oude Werf has stood on this site in Stellenbosch since 1802, making it South Africa’s oldest running hotel. Over centuries of rebuilding, reinvention, and everyday life on Church Street, it has remained a place of welcome where people arrive, gather, rest, and return. Oude Werf is not a museum of the past, but a living part of Stellenbosch.
Rooted In Responsibility
Doing the right thing isn’t optional. It’s who we are, even when no one is watching. Ethics isn’t just a set of policies. It’s how we do business. We’re committed to continuous improvement and transparency in everything we do; a commitment that extends to our staff, guests, and the broader community.
Sustainability
We take sustainability seriously. This isn’t just a marketing gimmick for us; it’s a core principle that guides our operations. We recognise that while we’ve made progress, we still have a long way to go, and we’re learning (with you) every step of the way.
Employer of Choice
Hospitality can be demanding, but we believe it’s worth it when you feel supported. We back our team by creating a work environment that promotes their well-being, development, and recognition.
Connect to Community
Being a responsible business isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about making choices—every day—that push us in the right direction. Our community outreach efforts focus on youth development, education, and sustainability.
Careers at Oude Werf
We care about your career. Becoming part of the Oude Werf tribe is about being valued, having your value reflected on your payslip, and joining a supportive community that wants to see you thrive.
Contact Us
Whether you’re planning your first visit, returning to Stellenbosch, or simply have a question, we’re here to help. From local recommendations to special requests, our team is always happy to share what makes Oude Werf and our town so special.
More to discover
Stories from the town, our people, and the quieter moments in between.
Church Street: The Heart of Stellenbosch
Church Street has always been where Stellenbosch gets together Today, glasses clink beneath the oak trees, conversations spill out of cafés, and visitors pause outside galleries...
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The Story Beneath Oude Werf
Many guests don’t realise what sits beneath the restaurant floor at Oude Werf. They arrive from Church Street or wander in from their rooms while breakfast is being served...
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Spaces
Comfortable spaces for gathering, celebrating or simply being together.
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