34 Hidden College Campuses That Feel More Like Vacation Resorts

34. Stellenbosch University – South Africa’s Wine Country Campus

Imagine going to college in a town famous for award-winning vineyards, oak-lined boulevards, and mountain views that stretch for miles—welcome to Stellenbosch University. Just outside Cape Town, this prestigious institution is nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, where students live and learn surrounded by historic Cape Dutch architecture and a Mediterranean climate. The campus blends modern facilities with historic buildings, and students often bike to class past vineyards and orchards. The surrounding area offers more than just scenic beauty: students spend weekends wine tasting at student-friendly estates, hiking the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, or exploring the thriving local art and music scene. The university is also deeply engaged in social justice, environmental sustainability, and innovation, making it a place where beauty and purpose converge. Stellenbosch is not just one of the most stunning campuses in the world—it’s a lifestyle of balance, blending deep intellectual curiosity with outdoor adventure and cultural richness.