Franschhoek
Franschhoek
Overview
Franschhoek is a marvelous town set in a valley on the foot of spectacular mountains, 75 km away from Cape Town. This pristine town forms part of the Cape Winelands hosting the most impressive restaurants and wine farms in the country. Making it a must-visit place for wine and food lovers.
The town was founded by a group of French Huguenots who settled in the area around 1688 when protestants were being prosecuted in France, forcing them to flee the country. The area quickly transformed as these French settlers brought with them their culture and expertise in agriculture. The area's name soon changed to le Coin Francais-"the French Corner" and later to Franschhoek which is Afrikaans for "French Corner". Within 10 years this valley quickly transformed into a bustling wine district producing some of the best wines in the country. The settlers even named their newly formed wine farms after areas in France, such as La Motte, Cabriere, La Provence, La Cotte and so many more.
Although many years of forced integration into the Dutch and English cultures have transformed Franschhoek's French culture, Franschhoek has kept some of its former traditions and even erected monuments to pay respects to its past. Franschhoek is so ingrained in French culture, that it celebrates some aspects of French Holidays such as Bastille day. On this momentous day, occurring every 14th of July, Berets caps are worn, with the streets populated with baguette, charcuterie, cheese, Cap Classique (South African Champagne), and barrel rolling.
Highlights
- Enjoy fine wine tasting at award-winning wine farms.
- Be amazed by the spectacular views of vineyards and mountains.
- Taste delicious food at some of the best restaurants in the country.
- Catch a wine tram as you enjoy an outstanding wine-tasting experience.
Why Go?
Franschhoek is the premier wine and food region in South Africa, with 8 of the top 100 restaurants in the country found here. These restaurants are surrounded by amazing mountainous regions with beautiful green vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see.
The center of the town is a must-visit, lined with antique shops, restaurants, coffee shops, curio shops, art galleries and so much more. For all the motorheads, a stop at the motor museum will leave you mind-blown, as it showcases the evolution of more than 100 years of motoring history, displaying a large collection of unique vehicles, motorbikes, and bicycles. History lovers can enjoy a time out marveling over the Huguenots monument standing at the top of the town, which celebrates the history and heritage of the town. Art lovers will enjoy mesmerizing art at various galleries including spectacular landscape art at La Motte.
As a region famous for its wines you can enjoy a ride along its popular wine tram. This enjoyable ride takes you along 10 different wine routes, ensuring you have the most enjoyable and safe wine-tasting experience. Each wine route includes up to 8 wine farms, with some popular destinations including Haute Cabriere, La Motte, Boschendal, Rust en Vrede and many more.
When to Go?
The offseason months between May to September, also known as the Franschhoek Secret season, make for the best times to visit Franschhoek. The weather is mild and accommodation is 20% to 40% cheaper than at other times of the year. The restaurants offer amazing specials with fun-themed evenings, and the wine farms have their fireplaces lit with the release of vintage wines. During the Summer seasons, between October to April, the restaurants are quite packed and if you decide to stay overnight it can be tricky to find accommodation, therefore it's always recommended to book far in advance to avoid those last-minute headaches.
Where to Go?
With so many popular wine destinations it can be a bit overwhelming to decide where to go, let's help you with that. Haute Cabriere is a fantastic wine farm to visit, this family-led wine farm has roots that extend deep into the culture and heritage of Franschhoek. With a passion for creating special moments for people that want to experience the taste of quality wine. Through many generations of perfecting the blend of Burgundian varietals, your palate will feel loved.
We also recommend visiting the La Motte wine estate. Recognized internationally for making one of the finest wines, making it perfect for those that want to experience the finer things in life.
We've got so many more picks, so why not get in touch or check out our popular tour offerings in Franschhoek combined with other famous destinations?
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