Franschhoek

The picturesque village of Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands is brimming with ‘joie de vivre’ and rural charm. This is often called the foodie capital of South Africa, with plenty of award-winning restaurants. Plus interesting shops and art galleries all within easy walking distance. Finally Franschhoek lies cradled within a pretty valley surrounded by mountains. So what's not to like? Many of the hotels in Franschhoek are within easy walking distance of these charms. Whilst others are picturesquely situated on nearby wine estates.

The origins of Franschhoek date back to 1688. Some of the French Huguenots fleeing religious persecution settled in the valley. With their arrival, it became known as French Corner. (Or ‘Franschhoek’ in Afrikaans). The French influence is still very evident today with wine estates such as Mont Rochelle, Haute Cabriere, La Motte or L’Omarins amongst others.

The Franschhoek Wine Tram is a notable attraction of Franschhoek. This connects the town to its surrounding wine estates via several different routes.

You can opt to stay at one of the hotels IN Franschhoek, which is great if you like browsing through shops and galleries. Plus it means that you can walk to one of the many excellent restaurants in the evening. However, if you prefer a more rural location, you can stay on one of the wine estates such as Mont Rochelle, Babylonstoren or Boschendal. (Franschhoek also has its own taxi service so it is easy to visit one of the many restaurants without having to drive.)

Finally we can also arrange guided biking or E-biking tours from Franschhoek.