All the Info You Need on Things to do in Franschhoek

Franschhoek, South Africa with its French heritage, claims to be the gastronomic capital of the country and there’s certainly a wealth of fabulous restaurants. In the heart of the Cape Winelands, there’s no shortage of excellent wineries in Franschhoek either.  

Guesthouses and Franschhoek wine farms make for fantastic places to stay, and there’s plenty of things to do in Franschhoek. Its one of the most beautiful towns in the Cape and should be on your list of places to visit.

Table of Contents
1 How to get to Franschhoek from Cape Town?
2 Getting around Franschhoek
3 Franschhoek Wine Tram
4 Tuk Tuk Franschhoek
5 Cycling in Franschhoek
6 Horseriding in Franschhoek
7 Wine Tasting in Franschhoek
8 Child Friendly Wine Farms in Franschhoek
9 Things to do in Franschhoek other than Wine Tasting
10 Huguenot Momunument
11 Huguenot Museum
12 Explore Franschhoek Town
13 Hugueno Chocolate Factory
14 Shops in Franschhoek
15 Franschhoek Motor Museum
16 Olive Oil Tasting in Franschhoek
17 Explore the village artisan in Franschhoek
18 Hiking in Franschhoek
19 Spas in Franschhoek
20 Best Restaurants in Franschhoek
21 High Tea in Franschhoek
22 Hotels in Franschhoek

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You can easily spend a few days in Franschhoek, but if you’re short on time you can enjoy a day trip there from Cape Town. Personally,​ I prefer Franschhoek to Stellenbosch. Its more upmarket and you feel completely safe walking around the town.

How to get to Franschhoek from Cape Town

The easiest way to get from Cape Town to Franschhoek is by car. It takes just over an hour to reach the town from the centre of teh city. The scenery along the way is spectacular and its both a pleasant and easy drive from the city.

Hiring a car through RentalCars.com online is straightforward and you can pickup the vehicle at various points around the city, or at the airport. They compare prices from all the major rental companies so you know you’re getting the best deal.

If you don’t wish to hire a car, you can book wine tours in Franschhoek from Cape Town or catch the City Sightseeing Bus thats combined with the wine tram.

Getting around Franschhoek 

You can easily walk around the main sights, and there are some wine farms in Franschhoek that are within walking distance of the centre. For the best wineries in Franschhoek, there are several ways to get there.

Franschhoek wine tram

The Franschhoek tram is an excellent way to explore the Franschhoek wine estates. The hop on hop off experience takes you through breathtaking vistas of the valley on a vintage style railway tram. The wine tram Franschhoek experience is combined with a bus which stops at some of the most distinguished vineyards in the area.

An image of the the wine tram franschhoek

There are eight lines to choose from with each having a different combination of wine tours.  Franschhoek day tours including the wine tram depart from the Cape Town Waterfront and several other points around the city. You can choose from either the purple or orange route where you’ll stop at for an hour at up to six wine estates.

Tuk Tuk Franschhoek

If the wine tram is a little too touristy for you and you fancy more of adventure, another great way to explore the Franschhoek wineries is by tuk-tuk.

An image of the tuk tuk franschhoek which is one of the things to do in Francschhoek

The company operates from the main high street in town and offer both wine and photography tours.

The guys that run the operation are friendly, and when I opted for a tuk-tuk ride, they were happy to take me on a bespoke journey.

Prices start from 300 ZAR, but if you’re a little cheeky like me, you can negotiate. It’s a fun way to explore the area, and if you see something of interest along the way, the driver will be happy to stop while you take photographs or a look inside.

Cycling in Franschhoek

Cycling around the wine farms is another excellent way to get around although you may have to negotiate some hills around the valley. You can hire Bicycles from Franschhoek tourist info which is on the main high street.

Guided wine tours on electronic bikes are also available.  They last for three and half hours and take in 2-3 wine estates. The meeting point is at the River Cafe in Franschhoek and as well as tasting some fabulous wines you’ll learn about the history of the area.

Horse Riding Franschhoek

Exploring the vineyards on horseback is an excellent way to enjoy wine tasting Franschhoek. One of the most popular farms offering horse riding is Robertsvallei.

The Paradise stables at the farm provide a range of horse trails for both beginners and advanced riders. The views on horseback are incredible, and you’ll be able to take some superb photographs along the way.

The scenic rides through the vineyards, Forrest and mountains stop at the Rickety Bridge winery Franschhoek and Mont Rochelle Reserve. There’s plenty of time for wine tasting at both stops and the total riding time is approximately two hours.

Wine Tasting in Franschhoek

Mont Rochelle

The Mont Rochelle Reserve was part of the estate that Jaques de Villiers acquired in 1715. Today its virgins billionaire Sir Richard Branson that owns the vineyard and it now offers luxury accommodation in Franschhoek.

The Country Kitchen at Mont Rochelle, is a fantastic spot for lunch and food has a Mediterranean influence. You can also opt to take a picnic basket and enjoy lunch at your perfect place in the vineyards or rose garden.

An image of the country kitchen at the Mont Rochelle hotel in Franschhoek

For wine tasting, you can pair your wines with canapés or with lunch and enjoy the magnificent view of the town and surrounding mountains.

Mont Rochelle is known for its Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties.

On Weekdays at 11 am they give free tours of the cellar and you can taste their entire range for 45 ZAR.

Colmant

Franschhoek is renowned for its bubbles produced by the Cap Classique process. The sparkling wine is made in the same way as French champagne but cannot be called such as its outside of France.

An image of Colmant, where one of things to in Franschhoek is taste champagne

The Belgian Jean Pierre Colmant owns the vineyard and tours give an authentic introduction into the classic method of producing sparkling wine.

The tasting room is small and has a cosy personal touch with spectacular vistas to enjoy the surrounding mountains.

Its open Monday to Friday and most Saturdays between 11 am and 1 pm. Cap Classique tasting costs 25 ZAR and champagne tastings 45 ZAR.

If you purchase the tasting Colmant will deduct the cost of the Cap Classique tasting. There are six varieties in the Cap Classique range, including a rosé.

Le Lude Franschhoek

Le Lude is a small boutique estate that like Colmant produces fine bubbles with the Cap Classique method. Nic and Ferda Barrow own the estate and Olga their daughter is the interior designer behind their beautiful tasting room.

Their second daughter, Nicolene Barrow, is the chef responsible for the exquisite food. Having learnt her trade at Le Gavroche in London the French style food is served with a contemporary twist.

The Orangerie restaurant has floor to ceiling glass windows which flood the room with light and its the perfect setting to enjoy tastings paired with canapés or cheese.

The restaurant also serves a delicious morning tea between 10 am and noon and afternoon tea between 2.30 pm and 4 pm which you can enjoy with their bubbles.

There’s no need to book ahead for tastings, and the Le Lude is easy to walk to from the centre of Franschhoek.

Tours of the cellar and production process are also available from Tuesday to Saturday.

Boekenhoutskloof

Boekenhoutskloof has had several owners since it began in 1776 and it’s one of the oldest farms in Franschhoek. In 1993, the orchards of apples and pears were replaced with vines that produce a range of wines.

Wine tastings at Boekenhoutskloof take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am. The tastings often include some older vintages from their collection.

Booking is essential as there’s limited space at their private tasting room. Their prestigious range consists of four brands, each capped with the Svelte lady figurehead of Boekenhoutskloof. She represents intrinsic quality and carries the dove of peace and hope.

The four brands include Porcupine Ridge, an everyday drinking wine, Chocolate Block, which is a highly sought after and popular blend that has a spicy and chocolate nose. Wolftrap, a red variety with a mix of Syrah, Mouvedre and Grenache grapes.

Boekenhoutskloof itself is the premium range which consists of a Shiraz, Semillon and a Cabernet Sauvignon.

 

Child-friendly Wine Farms Franschhoek

Wine farms are not only suitable for adults;many of them also have play areas and activities to keep the children occupied while you enjoy some wine tasting.

Grande Provence Franschhoek

The Grande Provence is not only one of the top wine estates in Franschhoek its in the top 100 wine estates in the world. Whether you have children or not this is one of the best vineyards in franschhoek to visit.

It’s within walking distance of the town and offers a unique 5-star experience that makes it a contender for the best winery in Franschhoek. The wine tram also has a station here if you don’t fancy walking.

The estate dates back to 1694 when Pierre Joubert acquired this and several other wine estates in Franschhoek. The manor house is stunningly beautiful, and the surrounding mountains provide the perfect backdrop to the estate.

An image of the Grand Provence vines and topiary framed by the stunning mountains in Franschhoek.

In addition to wine tasting, there’s also a fabulous restaurant and a magnificent art gallery which showcases South African works. The sculptures around the mansions beautifully manicured gardens add to the ambience.

An image of 3 bronze head statues at Grand Provence

Tasting options include canapé pairing and nougat pairing. For children there’s a grape juice tasting and there’s the opportunity to blend your own choice of wine.

The restaurants French dining cuisine with an Asian twist is the unique culinary style of Executive Chef Darren Badenhorst’s. There’s now a bistro-style lunch served as well.

Accommodation is also available at the Grand Provence, click here to check availability and prices.

Leopards Leap

Leopards Leap is a family vineyard owned by the Rupert family that focuses on food, conservation and literature.

They’re one of the most child-friendly vineyards on the Franschhoek wine route, and you can see the play area from most tables in the restaurant.

Lunch is buffing style and available from Wednesday to Sunday. The focus is on a rotisserie with an excellent selection of salads and vegetables grown on the farm to accompany.

The restaurant has a family-orientated environment, and there are often special events to enjoy. You can participate in tasting sessions for as little as 25 ZAR, and they also offer cooking demonstrations in their kitchen.

There’s a gift shop, and you can buy freshly baked meals to take home. Leopards Leap is keen on conservation and is a sponsor of the Cape Leopard Trust and have adopted numerous leopards which now roam free around the local mountain range.

They also support several literary associations and have a quiet reading corner at the wine estate

Franschhoek Cellar

Franschoek Cellar has a stop on the wine tram, so it’s easy to get to and the kids will enjoy the ride there on the tram. There’s a large, supervised play area which is undercover so there’s no problem if there’s bright sunshine or rain.

An image of the Play area at Franschhoek Cellar Wine Estate

The wine farm has a fantastic range of award-winning sparkling wine in their Methode Cap Classique collection as well as a range of red and white wine.  The restaurant serves exceptional food and tastings can be done with local cheeses or chocolates.

Things to do Franschhoek Other than Wine Tasting

While wine tasting in Franschhoek is the most popular activity in the area there’s also plenty of other things to do that make this a fantastic destination.

Huguenot Monument in Franschhoek

The Huguenot Monument is at the top end of the main high street. The three large arches of white stone, framed by the mountains behind offers excellent photographic opportunities.

An image of the Huguenot Monument, things to do in Franschhoek.

The Huguenot’s were a small group of refugees that emigrated from France to escape religious persecution in the late 1600s and early 1700s. They had a profound influence on the wine industry and have a unique place in African history.

The monument was officially opened in 1948 and is rich in symbolism. There are several buildings nearby which are also of interest. 

Huguenot museum Franschhoek

The outside of the museum building is beautiful and resembles a manor house. Inside, you can learn about the history of the Huguenot’s and why they chose to settle in Franschhoek.

An image of the Huguenot Museum Franschhoek.

On display are the original tools that they used to make wine, clothes and other interesting artefacts. There’s also a beautiful wildflower garden, a wine cellar and a restaurant.

Explore Franschhoek Town

Franschhoek Town is charming, and the surrounding mountains make a stunning backdrop to this picturesque place. As you walk around the centre, you’ll stumble across gorgeous backstreets and beautiful white Dutch heritage buildings.

Dutch Reformed Church

An image of the Dutch Reformed church in Franschhoek

In the middle of town is the church that dates back to 1847. The building is in a traditional cross shape and has an impressive organ inside.

A little further along Franschhoek main road is the stunning town hall building. The architecture is beautiful, as is the well-manicured garden.

Huguenot chocolate factory in Franschhoek

Huguenot fine chocolates is a beautiful way to enjoy an afternoon. Belgian Chocolatiers Danver Windvogel and Denver Adonis create hand-crafted chocolates that are exquisite and a joy to devour.

You can enjoy half-hour tastings, watch demonstrations and learn about the history of chocolate. There are two tours a day at 11 am and 3 pm. You’ll receive two chocolates to sample as part of the ticket. The shop also has some exquisite boxed chocolates, gourmet products and local jams for sale.

Shops in Franschhoek

There’s a wealth of speciality shops in Franschhoek, and it’s a fantastic place to pick up delightful souvenirs and gifts.

Many shop facades have stunning wrought iron surrounds, and the Huguenot square is particularly charming.

Whether you want handmade chocolates, boutique clothes shops, art galleries or artisan foods, you’ll find it in Franschhoek.

Markets in Franschhoek

Near the church, you’ll find a local African market most afternoons, and every Saturday between 9 am and 3 pm there’s the village market.

You’ll find an array of local produce for sale as well as antiques and vintage clothing.

Franschhoek motor museum 

L’Ormarins Estate is the Franschhoek motor museum owner and if you’re enthusiastic about cars a visit here should be top of your what to do in Franschhoek list.

There’s over 280 bicycles, motorbikes, and cars to peruse in this impressive collection. A selection of 80 vehicles spanning 100 years is on view at any one time.

The range is rotated every six months so if you’ve been before its always worth another visit.

From the museum, there is a complimentary tram which takes guests to the neighbouring Anthonij Rupert Estate tasting room Franschhoek

Franschhoek Olive Oil tasting

Although the area is renowned for its wine farms Franschhoek, also produces some outstanding olive oil.

At Clermont wine and fruit farm you’ll find the Franschhoek Olive Oil Company. Visitors can stay at the Auberge Clermont guesthouses in Franschhoek and enjoy not only luxurious accommodation but fabulous wine and food.

The Tuscan Frantoio variety of olives mostly makes the award-winning olive oil and the pressing season is between April and June. Visitors are welcome to explore the vineyards and orchards at any time during the olive oil season, and you can take a tour of the mill. You’ll see how they press the olives and of course, get to sample the delicious oil.

La Bourgogne Farm

Pierre de Villiers established the farm in 1694, and their partnership with the Le Roux family began in the 1800s.

The working farm provides beautiful accommodation in Franschhoek at their riverside cottages and the olive oil produced is of top quality.

An image of La Bourgogne Wine Estate

La Bourgogne has around 2500 olive trees, most of which are the Frantoio variety, but there are some other species as well. Tastings are available and farm shop.

Explore the village artisan Franschhoek

There are almost as many art galleries as there are vineyards in Franschhoek. Strolling around the quaint town, you’ll stumble across some beautiful sculptures, some of which are hidden away in the small courtyards.

As you walk up Huguenot street towards the monument, you can’t miss the delightful rabbit statues in the garden of Le Quartier Francais. They remind me of the mad hatter’s tea party scene in Alice in Wonderland.

An image of the rabbit statues at Le Quartier Francais in Franschhoek

The front garden of Leeu house also has some beautiful statues, but to see the best of the art its worth taking a tour. The guided tours take you around the stunning and well-manicured gardens where you’ll find beautiful artwork interspersed amongst the indigenous plants.    

The garden in Cafe des Arts also has some beautiful statues, and there’s a magnificent elephant outside the African Trading port. Alongside the fine art sculptures, you’ll also find quirky artisan touches around the town such as the bike hung up above Vendange and the suited and booted figures outside the African Touch.

Prominent galleries worth perusing are numerous, but Everard Read, Ebony Created, Franschhoek Art house and the Sénéchal-Senekal Art Gallery should be top of your list.

An image of one of the beautiful hidden alleyways that leads to a courtyard with a cafe in Franschhoek

As you wander around the town, the surrounding mountains make for stunning vistas down the narrow side streets. The hidden courtyards are a joy to discover, and there’s a wealth of places to stop for coffee and cake.

Hiking in Franschhoek 

Surrounded by stunning scenery hiking is a popular activity, and there are several hiking trails Franschhoek to explore.

The surrounding vistas of the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve which is recognised as Unesco biosphere research, have the best Franschhoek hiking trails.

Entry into the reserve requires a permit which can be bought online or at the main gate.

Permits cost 50 rand and children under 16 are free, but must be accompanied by an adult. Payment at the gate requires cash as there is no card machine. The trails are open between 8 am and 5 pm daily.

 La Motte Hiking trail.  

Guided hikes take place on Monday mornings, but you can explore the trail independently on any day except Sunday. The circular route is easy to follow, and rounded stones with a horn etched on them mark the way.

The guided course is 5km and takes between two to three hours. The start of the trail begins at the La Motte tasting room, and once you’ve completed the circular path, a wine tasting session is an excellent way to round off the day.

An image of Mont Rochelle Francshhoek.

The trail is challenging in sections, and at one point there is a sheer rock face. You’ll find chains at specific locations to aid you along the way, but the spectacular scenery of the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve is worth the challenge.

You’ll also pass the Fynbos plantation with beautiful proteas to admire before returning to the vineyards. 

Cats Pass Trail

The cats pass trail is another moderately challenging hike through the Mont Rochelle Reserve. Along the well-marked trail, you’ll pass several historical points of interest.

The trail begins with a 2.5km climb to the summit and then descends for the next 8km. The views of the vineyards, Fynbos reserve and mount Rochelle nature reserve are magnificent.

Cats pass starts in Franschhoek at the upper end of Reservoir Street by the gate that leads to the Franschhoek Estate. The hike is divided into two sections and takes around 5 hours to complete.

The lower trail involves negotiating some steep steps before crossing the R45 and climbing a short vertical ladder.

If you don’t wish to continue to the upper pass you can arrange transport to collect you from the lay-by on the R45.

The Upper Cats trail follows the 1819 wagon track from the top of Franschhoek pass to JanJoubertsgat bridge. If you wish to hike only this section of the trail, it begins at the junction with the gravel road that leads to Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve on the R45.

Cats Se Pad Hiking Trail

The start of the trail is only 1km away from the centre of Franschhoek at the Haute Cabrière wine estate. The route follows the old wagon trail built in 1819 and takes you up Franschhoek mountain to the top of Franschhoek Pass.

The hike is a great one to undertake with families as its easy and relatively short at 3km. The panoramic views along the way of the valley are spectacular.

Perdekop Hiking Trail

You need a good level of fitness for the Perdekop Hiking trail and its not advisable to hike this path in bad weather or by yourself.

The circular route starts at the entry gate of the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve and passes Breakfast rock before continuing towards Uitkyk.

The path has a steady climb over several kilometres, but the magnificent panoramic views over the Wemmershoek valley and surrounding cliffs are worth the effort.

The Perdekop peak is marked by a large stone cairn and is approximately 4.3 km from the Uitkyk turn-off. The path descends steadily down into the Du Toits river gorge and takes around 6 to 7 hours to complete.

Breakfast Rock (An easy walk)

The trek to Breakfast Rock is an easy 45-minute hike which starts and ends at the main entry gate to the Mont Rochelle Reserve.

The first part of the trail takes you along the gravel road before branching off to the left. The path then zig-zags making the climb more manageable, and it’s not long before you reach Breakfast Rock.

Dutoitskop Trail

The Dutoitskop trail is a moderately challenging 12km hike that starts at the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve office. There’s a 700m climb to the top of Dutoitskop summit, and the views of the magnificent Franschhoek Vally and Wemmershoek mountains are exquisite.

The trail begins with a walk up to Breakfast Rock and then branches off to the left. On a clear day, you can see Table Mountain, and if you’re a keen bird watcher, you may spot the endemic Cape Rockjumper. Allow 5 hours for the hike

Vista Trail

The vista trail is a circular route which starts and ends at the main gate of the mont Rochelle Nature reserve.

The course takes you along the Breakfast Rock Trail before branching off to the left about a kilometre from the main entrance. It’s then approximately 300m to the panoramic viewpoint.

You can take a rest here and enjoy the spectacular vistas, before continuing along the trail in a north-easterly direction. In this section, on a clear day, Lion’s Head and Table Mountain can be seen through the gap between Simonsberg and Groot Drakenstein Mountain.

The trail then meets the Du Toitskop path which you follow for 500m to reach breakfast rock on the right. It’s then another 1km back to the main gate.

Spas in Franschhoek

To complete your luxury break in the wine region, why not pamper yourself at a Franschhoek spa. Several Franschhoek hotels have spa facilities, and you can book treatments without being a guest.

Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa

The Camelot Spa at the Franschhoek hotel offers treatments to enhance both your mental and physical wellbeing. There’s a comprehensive range of sensory experiences which include both contemporary and traditional therapy’s.

Rooms include the Moulin Rough Colour therapy adventure and the Grecian liquid-sound flotation room. There’s also a fragrant herbal sauna and a steamy Swiss shower for you to enjoy.

Every visit starts with a wellness assessment where a specialist spa consultant will help asses your needs and help you choose the optimum health and wellbeing treatments.

There are traditional massages, invigorating body scrubs, wraps to revive your skin to name but a few. Treatments are available for couples, ladies, gents and teenagers.

You can book individual manicures and facials or combine treatments as part of a package. After your treatment, you can chill out in the relaxation room and enjoy a healthy snack in the beautiful courtyard.

Boschendal Spa in Franschhoek

Wellness in the Wild operate the spa at Boschendal, and with a top selection of high-quality spa treatments, there are lots of pampering delights to choose. You can enjoy massages, wraps, manicures, facials to name but a few.

Booking is essential, and the spa is open between 10 am and 6 pm daily.

Best restaurants in Franschhoek

With so many prestigious wine estates and French heritage, its no surprise that there are some top restaurants in Franschhoek. With so many high-quality establishments, it’s challenging to choose the best, but I highly recommend the following Franschhoek restaurants.

La Colombe Franschhoek

La Petite Colombe is arguably the best restaurant in Franschhoek, and its mothership restaurant in Cape Town is often ranked in the top restaurants in the world.

An image of La Petite Colombe

Le Quartier Francais houses the restaurant which is associated with the exquisite Leeu Collection. The architect Rohan Young styled the restaurant which has a classic yet modern edge to it.

Head chef John Norris-Rogers works alongside the flagship restaurants head chefs Scot Kirton and James Gaag, and their focus is on seasonal products.

The 8 and 12-course tasting menus use the finest local ingredients which you can pair with the excellent wine selection.

Chefs Warehouse at Maison

Chefs Warehouse opened in November 2017 and with chefs such as Michelin-starred Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen giving it his approval its reputation speaks for itself.

Chef Liam Tomlin owns the Chef Warehouse, and like his other popular restaurants, the signature dishes are based on “global Tapas”. The estate’s excellent wines accompany each course and bookings for evening meals are taken between 7 pm and 8.15 pm Wednesday to Saturday.

Reuben’s Franschhoek

South African’s love their Braai’s and Reubens is the place in Franschhoek to head to between March and May if you want to enjoy delicious food fresh from the coals. The Braai menu is available from noon til 3 pm Monday to Friday in summer and includes favourites such as marinated lamb chops and glazed beef ribs.

Throughout the rest of the year, Reuben’s is a laid back restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and elegant surrounds. Chef Reuben Riffel is the inspiration behind the fabulous food, decadent desserts and magnificent wine. The decor is beautiful, and the service is friendly. It’s open every day for lunch between 12 noon and 3 pm and in the evening from 6.30 pm till 9 pm.

Marigold Authentic Indian

If you’re looking for a change of cuisine, the Singh owned Marigold restaurant offers authentic Indian delights. Vanie Padayachee who was formerly at Le Quartier Francais became a head chef after gaining inspiration from her travels through India.

The menu provides spicy North Indian delights which include fragrant curries, charcoal tandoor-cooked meat, delicious naan and biryanis. It’s an excellent place for vegetarians to dine at as there’s plenty of choices. The Marigold is open seven days a week from 12 pm-3 pm and 6 pm to 10 pm.

High tea Franschhoek

Manor House, Leeu Estates, Franschhoek

The beautiful Leeu estate with its stunning views of the Dassenberg mountains and picture-perfect gardens is a fabulous place to enjoy afternoon tea.

The large expansive windows of the conservatory and delightful décor make for an elegant setting. The menu has a wide selection of organic teas and coffees, and the pastries are made daily.

The canapés and savoury delights taste divine, and the chocolate desserts are world-class. The manor house at Leeu estates opens daily and afternoon tea can be enjoyed between 2 pm-5 pm.

Le Verger, Le Franschhoek Hotel

The grounds of Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa are breathtakingly beautiful, and there are several rooms in which you can enjoy afternoon tea. The staff will welcome you with sparkling wine, and the level of service throughout the experience is excellent.

The savoury course includes salmon blini’s, vegetarian quiche and asparagus wrapped in parma ham. There’s a selection of fragrant teas, to accompany the tiered stand of desserts which are arranged with roses from the garden in an exquisite fashion. High tea is available every day.

Anthonij Rupert

The Drakenstein Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the tasting room at the Anthonij Rupert estate and its a popular choice for afternoon tea.

It’s best to book ahead to avoid disappointment but the estate is open between 10 am and 4.30 pm. You’ll be served a selection of tantalising treats that are freshly baked each day, and the L’Ormarins Brut is an excellent accompaniment.

If you prefer a cup of tea there is a fine selection to choose from which includes French Earl Grey, Moroccan Mint 1837 Black, Jasmine, Royal Darjeeling, and Lapsang Souchong.

Savoury delights include Duck Liver parfait on Melba toast and cheese straws, while desserts include passionfruit macaroons, gluten-free chocolate cake and Lemon iced Madeleines. They also serve delightful cucumber sandwiches which gives it that authentic British touch.

Hotels in Franschhoek

When looking for places to stay in Franschhoek you’re spoilt for choice. Whether you’re looking for hotels in Franschhoek, guest houses in Franschhoek or luxury accommodation, the town has something for everyone.

Below is a list of some of the best places to stay in Franschhoek.

La Residence in Franschhoek

With spectacular views of the surrounding mountain range and the Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz vineyards, La Residence is an opulent and exquisite hotel in Franschhoek.

The furnishings are lavish, and the chandeliers sparkle from the ceilings: There are beautiful floral displays and elegant antique furnishings throughout the hotel.

The 11 suites are individually decorated with elaborate furnishings but modern conveniences. Each suite is air-conditioned and has a flat-screen tv and a minibar.

At breakfast, you can enjoy the excellent buffet selection and order something delicious from the a la carte menu. La residence has a spa which offers a range of relaxing treatments, a swimming pool and a fully-equipped fitness centre.

They offer guests a free shuttle service into Franschhoek town centre, and the hotel can arrange airport transfers for an additional fee. All guests receive free laundry services, and the private estate is known for its world-class service.

La Fontaine Franschhoek

Boutique hotels in Franschhoek don’t come better than the newly refurbished four stars, La Fontaine.

The hotel is in the centre of Franschhoek so you won’t have to walk far to see the town’s attractions. There are 17 large suites, all with individual themes and modern facilities.

The 19th Century house is stunning, and the gardens are equally beautiful. There’s a swimming pool to enjoy, and breakfast can be taken in the garden if the weather is suitable.

La Fontaine is a family-run hotel, and the service is exceptional. Its an excellent choice for families as they offer a babysitting service and the rooms are spacious.

Self-catering accommodation Franschhoek

Le Petit Bijou Boutique Apartments 

In the centre of town, the Le Petit Bijou Boutique Apartments are an excellent choice if you prefer self-catering.

They offer free wifi and parking as well as access to a fitness room. There’s a swimming pool on-site, and each unit comes with a kitchen, a washing machine, satellite tv and a DVD player.

All apartments have a private bathroom and include a seating/dining area. The daily housekeeping service will ensure that your unit stays clean and Reina the host is incredibly welcoming.

Gite, self catering Franschhoek

Gite provides individual units that have free wifi, BBQ facilities, a garden and free parking. 

Every Gîte has a patio area, air conditioning, a dining area and satellite television.  The bathrooms have a hot tub for you to enjoy and the panoramic vistas that surround the units are stunning.

Franschhoek is a wonderful town to visit and I hope you’ve found this guide on things to do there helpful. If you’re planning a trip to Africa you may also be interested in reading this guide on how to plan a self-drive safari in Botswana.

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Fiona
Fiona

Hi, I’m Fiona Berry- I live in Lancashire in the North of England, but my job as an instrumental music examiner takes me all over the world. Travel has enriched my life in so many ways and allowed me to experience different cultures, make new friends and see extraordinary sights. Through this blog, I share my knowledge and expertise so that my readers have all the resources they require to ensure their travels provide unique and unforgettable memories to destinations that are beyond the ordinary.

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