There are very few places in the world where vineyards hug every street corner, where magnificent mountain slopes gaze down upon exclusive shopping complexes and where rustic hiking trails cross the pristine driveways of internationally acclaimed restaurants. Perhaps there is only one, Constantia. And right at the heart of all this natural beauty and opulence, stands a unique shopping destination - The Constantia Village.

The diversity of speciality stores, fashion outlets, restaurants and anchors provide an extensive choice for shoppers. In the bustling Main Village, you'll find the country's No 1 Pick n Pay, a large Woolworths Food store, @Home, Exclusive Books, chic fashion boutiques for men and women, a wealth of gold and glittering gems and other luxury goods such as leather products. The centre offers the convenience of a mall, the quality and desirability of a boutique and the ambience of a village square.

The Old Village is arguably the most ambient quarter of Constantia Village. It is the original site of this unique shopping centre. Stepping in is like stepping out . into a welcoming Village courtyard, festooned with lanterns, planted with trees and accompanied by the musical tinkle of a fountain. Here an eclectic medley of services and dining can be enjoyed in light and leafy lanes under-laid by cobble-stoned charm. From pecorino to picture frames, sushi to postage stamps, dry cleaning to dry sherry ... the Old Village offers shoppers an enchanting shopping environment. And, of course, it's the perfect place for breakfast or dinner.

The Constantia Village is also designed architecturally to fit in beautifully with the gorgeous mountains and vineyards all around - it is low with a tree-lined parking area. It was so wisely conceived that twenty-two years on, The Constantia Village is still the most desirable shopping destination in the southern suburbs of Cape Town.