Franschhoek offers classic styles in South Africa
Website design By BotEap.comNestled in a fertile valley and surrounded by majestic mountains, Franschhoek may seem like just a quaint country town, however this is the food and wine heart of South Africa and one of the world’s top wine destinations.
Website design By BotEap.comThe spectacular scenery of this beautiful valley, where vineyards stretch along the mountain slopes and towering oaks tower over original Cape Dutch farmhouses, nurtures this peaceful settlement that tells a colorful history.
Website design By BotEap.comHistory
When the Edict of Nantes was revoked in France in 1685, hundreds of Huguenots fled their homeland as Protestantism was outlawed. Of these, 227 reached the Cape of Good Hope seeking refuge. Simon van der Stel, the Dutch governor at the time, led them up what is now the Helshoogte mountain into the valley beyond and granted many of them farmland there. The valley was first named Olifantshoek (Elephant Corner), reminiscent of the large number of elephants that roamed freely here, but with the settlement of French Huguenots, the name was soon changed to Franschhoek (French Corner). Website design By BotEap.comTheir heritage is preserved in the Huguenot Monument, which was erected in 1938 and stands proudly on top of the town. The engravings tell of his religious persecution, his flight to South Africa, the strength of his beliefs, and the influence they had on the development of the area. Each original Huguenot farm has a unique story to tell and his stories are told in the nearby museum. Website design By BotEap.comToday, Franschhoek is one of South Africa’s top five tourist destinations and an excellent base from which to explore the rest of the amazing world of the Winelands. The Franschhoek Valley is especially known for its tranquil beauty and relaxed atmosphere, the perfect setting to thoroughly enjoy the first-class wines produced in this area. Website design By BotEap.comThe world of wines
More than 300 years ago, French Huguenots saw the potential in this fertile land and started a wine industry that continues to this day. Today, members of the Vignerons de Franschhoek (vine growers association) continue this noble tradition and produce some of the best wines in South Africa. Website design By BotEap.comFrom crisp, fruity whites to rich, warm reds, Franschhoek offers all the noble cultivars and classic styles. The valley is especially known for its exquisite Cap Classique sparkling wines and ports. Website design By BotEap.comThe Franschhoek Valley is home to approximately 20 wine estates, many of which have retained their original French names, and charming Cape Dutch farmhouses. Small boutique wineries appeal to those looking for something unique, while larger estates offer cellar tours and tastings. Website design By BotEap.comThe gastronomic capital
The best tastes in Franschhoek don’t end with the wine. Top chefs create internationally acclaimed culinary delights, and eight of South Africa’s “Top 100 Restaurants” are located in Franschhoek; no wonder Franschhoek is referred to as the Gourmet Capital of the country. From light meals made with delicious fresh valley produce to the comforting familiarity of traditional Cape fare and the exciting indulgence of world-class French cuisine, Franschhoek offers a meal to suit every taste and a menu to suit every pocket. 28 excellent restaurants offer wonderful hospitality and a great atmosphere and naturally each meal is complemented by one of the fantastic local wines. Website design By BotEap.comA paradise for visitors
Franschhoek not only offers some of the best dining and wine in the world, but also an excellent choice for accommodation. Small luxury hotels, charming guest houses, elegant self-catering cabins and beautiful B&Bs will tempt you to stay in this quaint town. Franschhoek’s character is reflected in the hospitality of the friendly people who live here, and the picturesque vineyards, spectacular views and stunning mountain scenery have long enchanted the hearts of tourists and locals alike. Website design By BotEap.comA walk down the main street can take you a day. Cafes and restaurants offer temptations to the taste buds, shops and galleries offer a wonderful selection of antiques and a world-class collection of art, and craft and curio shops sell souvenirs, inviting you to take away just a small part of this unforgettable town house. . There are also specialized shops such as cheese shops and a chocolate factory. Website design By BotEap.comThe spectacular mountains surrounding Franschhoek provide the perfect setting for numerous walking trails for the more energetic of visitors. La Motte Forest Station offers hiking, horse riding, fly fishing and cycling. Trout fishing is possible in several streams and dams that surround the town. Experience a different wine route: on horseback or by carriage. Local tour guides are on hand to advise and help you explore all the region has to offer. Website design By BotEap.comIf you visit Franschhoek during our winter, remember the 14th of July. This is Bastille Day, when the town celebrates its French heritage with a gourmet and wine fair that draws visitors from far and wide. Website design By BotEap.comAll in all, the Franschhoek Valley is a truly special destination. With stunning scenery, a rich cultural heritage, warm and friendly people, and an unrivaled dining and dining experience, what better place to spend some time than Franschhoek?
When the Edict of Nantes was revoked in France in 1685, hundreds of Huguenots fled their homeland as Protestantism was outlawed. Of these, 227 reached the Cape of Good Hope seeking refuge. Simon van der Stel, the Dutch governor at the time, led them up what is now the Helshoogte mountain into the valley beyond and granted many of them farmland there. The valley was first named Olifantshoek (Elephant Corner), reminiscent of the large number of elephants that roamed freely here, but with the settlement of French Huguenots, the name was soon changed to Franschhoek (French Corner). Website design By BotEap.comTheir heritage is preserved in the Huguenot Monument, which was erected in 1938 and stands proudly on top of the town. The engravings tell of his religious persecution, his flight to South Africa, the strength of his beliefs, and the influence they had on the development of the area. Each original Huguenot farm has a unique story to tell and his stories are told in the nearby museum. Website design By BotEap.comToday, Franschhoek is one of South Africa’s top five tourist destinations and an excellent base from which to explore the rest of the amazing world of the Winelands. The Franschhoek Valley is especially known for its tranquil beauty and relaxed atmosphere, the perfect setting to thoroughly enjoy the first-class wines produced in this area. Website design By BotEap.comThe world of wines
More than 300 years ago, French Huguenots saw the potential in this fertile land and started a wine industry that continues to this day. Today, members of the Vignerons de Franschhoek (vine growers association) continue this noble tradition and produce some of the best wines in South Africa. Website design By BotEap.comFrom crisp, fruity whites to rich, warm reds, Franschhoek offers all the noble cultivars and classic styles. The valley is especially known for its exquisite Cap Classique sparkling wines and ports. Website design By BotEap.comThe Franschhoek Valley is home to approximately 20 wine estates, many of which have retained their original French names, and charming Cape Dutch farmhouses. Small boutique wineries appeal to those looking for something unique, while larger estates offer cellar tours and tastings. Website design By BotEap.comThe gastronomic capital
The best tastes in Franschhoek don’t end with the wine. Top chefs create internationally acclaimed culinary delights, and eight of South Africa’s “Top 100 Restaurants” are located in Franschhoek; no wonder Franschhoek is referred to as the Gourmet Capital of the country. From light meals made with delicious fresh valley produce to the comforting familiarity of traditional Cape fare and the exciting indulgence of world-class French cuisine, Franschhoek offers a meal to suit every taste and a menu to suit every pocket. 28 excellent restaurants offer wonderful hospitality and a great atmosphere and naturally each meal is complemented by one of the fantastic local wines. Website design By BotEap.comA paradise for visitors
Franschhoek not only offers some of the best dining and wine in the world, but also an excellent choice for accommodation. Small luxury hotels, charming guest houses, elegant self-catering cabins and beautiful B&Bs will tempt you to stay in this quaint town. Franschhoek’s character is reflected in the hospitality of the friendly people who live here, and the picturesque vineyards, spectacular views and stunning mountain scenery have long enchanted the hearts of tourists and locals alike. Website design By BotEap.comA walk down the main street can take you a day. Cafes and restaurants offer temptations to the taste buds, shops and galleries offer a wonderful selection of antiques and a world-class collection of art, and craft and curio shops sell souvenirs, inviting you to take away just a small part of this unforgettable town house. . There are also specialized shops such as cheese shops and a chocolate factory. Website design By BotEap.comThe spectacular mountains surrounding Franschhoek provide the perfect setting for numerous walking trails for the more energetic of visitors. La Motte Forest Station offers hiking, horse riding, fly fishing and cycling. Trout fishing is possible in several streams and dams that surround the town. Experience a different wine route: on horseback or by carriage. Local tour guides are on hand to advise and help you explore all the region has to offer. Website design By BotEap.comIf you visit Franschhoek during our winter, remember the 14th of July. This is Bastille Day, when the town celebrates its French heritage with a gourmet and wine fair that draws visitors from far and wide. Website design By BotEap.comAll in all, the Franschhoek Valley is a truly special destination. With stunning scenery, a rich cultural heritage, warm and friendly people, and an unrivaled dining and dining experience, what better place to spend some time than Franschhoek?