Franschhoek is one of South Africaโs oldest towns, and is full of heritage and history. Above all, it is exquisitely beautiful, being nestled among mountains and vineyards with all of the splendour of the Western Cape infiltrating every aspect of this town.
Franschhoek is only 75 kilometres from the Mother City, Cape Town, and its international airport, making it convenient and accessible too. This also means that all of the attractions for which Cape Town is known are available to visitors of Franschhoek.
Still, this little town, established by the French Huguenots, has plenty to offer tourists and locals in terms of things to do and see…
Here are some of our favourite Things To Do In Franschhoek:
Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve
visit the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve within Boland for awesome walking and hiking trails as well as secluded picnic spots. Different hiking trails are available, depending on the time you have available and your levels of fitness. Before visiting this reserve, you will need a permit, which is available at the Tourism Office, Protea Hotel or Huguenot Museum.
Wine tours
being in the heart of wine country, no trip to Franschhoek is complete without a tour (self-guided or guided) of some of the local wine farms. Some of the best known farms here include Backsberg, Boschendal, Eikehof, Haute Cabriere, La Motte, Leopardโs Leap, Rupert & Rothschild and Vrede en Lust.
There is also a Wine Bus that can be chartered to take a group of no more than 10 to visit various wine farms and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.
The Elephant and Barrel Village Pub
for something a little different, sample some of the more than 30 varieties of traditional British beers at this, the only English pub in town. The menu boasts traditional pub fair and includes options for children.
The Chocolate Experience
taste, learn and indulge in the chocolaty delight of a number of different flavours and textures. This workshop is held at Huguenot Fine Chocolates and is fabulous for couples, groups or families.
Camelot Spa
indulge yourself in a pampering session at the Camelot Spa at Le Franschhoek Hotel. Views of the surrounding mountains complement the 5-star treatments to perfection, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalised.
The Franschhoek Motor Museum
this museum brings the history of motoring to life with an impressive collection of cars, motorbikes, bicycles and memorabilia. The oldest vehicle on display is a Beeston tricycle from 1898.
Roubaix House Gallery
this family-owned gallery and studio showcases gorgeous ceramic work.
The Huguenot Monument
and Huguenot Memorial Museum โ these tell the tale of Franschhoekโs rich history and heritage.
Dieu Donnรฉ Microbrewery
an interesting revelation of the production of beers from around the world is ideally rounded off by lunch with magnificent views of the mountain range.
Go biking
hire motorbikes from Manic Cycles and tour the Franschhoek mountains and winelands with the wind in your face and sunshine on your back.
Franschhoek Links:
