Franschhoek, often hailed as the “Valley of Dreams”, is a Cape Winelands gem that is known for its one-of-a-kind wine farms, thrilling food experiences, and luxury accommodations.
The town is host to many events throughout the year, including the Franschhoek Literary Festival and Bastille Day. Here is everything you need to know about planning a trip to Franschhoek.
Where to Eat
The main road of the village is lined with a cosmopolitan mix of trendy street cafés and bistros, along with world-class restaurants and bars to enjoy. Here are some to visit:
La Petite Colombe
La Petite Colombe is La Colombe’s sister restaurant in Franschhoek that takes you on a culinary journey, highlighting the seasonal produce and the finest wines. There is a reduced menu for those who are on a time crunch.
Website: www.lapetitecolombe.com
La Petite Ferme Restaurant
La Petite Ferme restaurant serves a fusion of countryside cuisine with a fresh contemporary twist. The meals are paired with their selection of
hand-crafted La Petite Ferme wines and the menus evolve with the seasons so there is a variety of options.
Website: lapetiteferme.co.za/
Smitten
Born out of a shared passion for food, Smitten is the love child of veteran TV anchor and broadcaster, Imraan Vagar, and chef and host of “Geure Uit Die Vallei” on SABC2, Chris Smit.
Located at The Yard, Smitten boasts a restaurant, deli shop, bakery and bar. Here, you can expect a selection of dishes for breakfast and lunch, afternoon tea and cocktails, aperitifs, and bite-sized nibbles.
Website: www.smittencafe.co.za/
Ōku
The name Ōku, translating to “oak tree” in Japanese, serves dishes rooted in the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia. The eatery sources most of its ingredients locally, with a refined, flavourful menu. Ōku is open for lunch and dinner daily.
Website: eat-oku.co.za/
Mon Amour
Step inside Mon Amour, an eatery that pays homage to Parisian Café culture. Serving everything from cake to lunch and coffee to bubbles, this colourful and Instagrammable restaurant is open from Tuesday to Sunday.
Website: bit.ly/3UvD2lF
Where to Wine
The Franschhoek Wine Route boasts some of the finest wine estates in the country, offering the opportunity to spend afternoons savouring fine wines and paired tastings.
Franschhoek Wine Tram
One of the best ways to discover the Franschhoek Valley is on the wine tram. The most popular option, the Hop-on Hop-off Experience, allows you to experience an array of activities, from wine tasting, cellar tours, lunch with superb vineyard views, to a stroll through the vineyards. You can also book Curated Wine Experiences. The wine tram departs from Franschhoek or Groot Drakenstein Terminal (dependent on which tour/ line you choose). Make a stop at their French-inspired café, Café Beignet, for a few freshly made beignets.
Website: winetram.co.za/
Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate
Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate’s history spans over 300 years and is home to some of the region’s award-winning wines. Try their wine-tasting options, which include their flagship tasting, or pair the wines with options like oyster, nougat, or a Cape Heritage pairing. Art lovers can take a stroll and enjoy the views from the sculpture garden.
Website: www.grandeprovence.co.za
Dieu Donne Winery
Meaning “A Gift from God” or “God Given,” Dieu Donne Winery boasts incredible views of the Franschhoek valley. Sample their award-winning wines and end the visit with a stroll in their picturesque garden.
Website: www.dieudonnevineyards.com
Rickety Bridge Winery
Located between the Dassenberg Mountain and the Franschhoek River, Rickety Bridge is one of the designated stops for the popular Franschhoek Wine Tram. With a history dating back to 1797, you can enjoy one of their tastings, dine at Paulina’s Restaurant, named in honour of the original owner of the property, Paulina de Villiers, or book a stay in one of their well-appointed accommodations.
Website: www.ricketybridgewinery.com
Colmant Cap Classique and Champagne
Bubbly enthusiasts will appreciate Colmant Cap Classique and Champagne, open Monday to Friday from 11 am to 1 pm. They offer tastings and a Sabrage experience. Booking is essential.
Website: colmant.co.za/
Where to Visit
Franschhoek is more than just wine and foodie experiences, the attraction is known for its fun and family-friendly activities. These include:
Farm Sanctuary
Farm Sanctuary aims to awaken connection between farm animals and visitors and inspire a positive change in the way society views and treats farmed animals. This unique attraction also allows you the opportunity to sleep in a bar with rescued farmed animals, wine tasting in a barn, and a plant-based café.
Website: www.farmsanctuarysa.org/
Gerart Exclusive Art gallery
South African artist Gerart Snyman, known for his modern abstract wildlife and portrait work, exhibits his creations in a gallery in Franschhoek. Browse through the thought-provoking pieces free of charge, and if you feel a little indulgent, you can acquire a few pieces of his art.
Website: www.gerart.co.za/
Babylonstoren
Known as one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, Babylonstoren is an all-in-one destination known for its grand gardens, wine tasting, and luxury accommodation and spa. There are 3 restaurants on the property: Babel, Greenhouse and Old Bakery, which all serve food that is seasonal in picturesque settings.
Website: babylonstoren.com/
Huguenot Fine Chocolates
If you are looking for something sweet, head to Huguenot Fine Chocolates, located on the main street of Franschhoek. You can indulge in a range of chocolates, made from the finest imported Belgian chocolate. Try their Chocolate Experience, a half-hour programme of tasting, demonstrations, and the history of chocolate making.
Website: www.huguenotchocolates.com/
Franschhoek Motor Museum
Showcasing 100 years of automotive history, Franschhoek Motor Museum at L’Ormarins is a treat for car enthusiasts. You will find a collection of over 220 vehicles – such as the 1898 Beeston motor tricycle – and 80 exhibits displayed in four de-humidified halls.
Some cars to appreciate when you visit include Oldsmobile (1904), Austin 7 Chummy Tourer (1926), and a Porsche 930 Turbo (1979). The attraction is open daily and available via booking.
Website: https://bit.ly/3Ww7pLx
Where to Stay
Franschhoek features a range of accommodation options. These include:
La Petite Ferme
Experience splendid views at one of La Petite Ferme’s many accommodation options. Situated on the serene slopes of the Oliphants Pass and Middagkrans Mountain Range, the estate features the Manor House, Vineyard Suites, and Winery Suites, each offering spectacular vistas and uncompromising comfort. An in-spa menu is also available for guests.
Website: bit.ly/4briAcC
Ludus Magnus
For those who seek something luxurious, yet hidden and serene, visit Ludus Magnus. You may remember this 5-star accommodation as the location for the Love Island Series when they filmed in early 2024. Framed by majestic mountains and completely off-the-grid, the estate offers hectares of wide-open space, fruit trees, and a Shiraz vineyard. Guests also have the option of enjoying spa treatments, a private chef, and a butler on call.
Website: www.ludusmagnus.co.za/
Auberge La Dauphine
Enjoy self-catering cottages, loft suites, and superior rooms at Auberge La Dauphine. The family-friendly guest farm amenities include a swimming pool, tennis court, sunbathing area, garden, and vineyard.
Website: www.ladauphine.co.za
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