All You Need to Know: Franschhoek
Written by Zeldi Smulders
The town of Franschhoek—translated as ‘French corner’— is a picturesque exhibit of culture and history accompanied by culinary prestige. Set in a valley of the Cape Winelands with views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards, people come from far and wide to visit this exquisite town.
Franschhoek dates back to the 17th century when French Huguenot refugees settled in the area. Thankfully, they brought their knowledge of vine cultivation and cellar practices with them. Today, the many local and international visitors are proof that there is something for everyone in this town.
Location
How to get there
Franschhoek is about 80 km from Cape Town, which is just over an hour’s drive by car. This town can be reached via two national highways, the N1 and N2, which will bring you to the R45 that leads into Franschhoek.
Best time to go
A Mediterranean-like climate presents you with hot, dry summers and cold, wet winters. Although each season has its own perks and beauty to see, summer and spring are better for exploring and winter is the off-peak season. With food, wine, and literary festivals and exhibits taking place year-round (on top of all the other attractions and activities), you will never run out of things to do throughout the year.
What to do
Main attractions
Wine farms and estates
There are over 50 wineries in and around Franschhoek and due to the French-influenced history of this town, many of the wine farms still have their original French names. The South African Champagne-style sparkling wine known as Methode Cap Classique is also celebrated in this area.
Don’t miss out on the Franschhoek Wine Tram that will take you to top wineries with hop-on-hop-off options. Where the tram rail stops, you will be taken the rest of the way in a vintage open-air tractor, wagon, or bus.
Museums and history
Take a tour of the Huguenots Memorial Museum, and just a rock’s throw away, the first South African Perfume Museum. Then, go to the Motor Museum which boasts a collection of vintage, classic, and new models, as well as impressive Formula 1 racing cars. Don’t forget to look around as you walk along the streets of this town as the Dutch-style architecture is something remarkable to behold.
Nature scenes
The mountain and vineyard views are what makes this town more than just a cultural sensation. An area this breathtakingly beautiful should be appreciated to the max by exploring all it has to offer. The Babylonstoren gardens and the Franschhoek Pass are some of the best options that allow you to do so.
Activities
Fine dining
With award-winning restaurants, you will surely get a fine dining experience here. After all, Franschhoek is known as the gourmet capital of South Africa. By using local products and pairing them with superb wines, restaurants in Franschhoek have established themselves as some of the most noteworthy restaurants in South Africa.
Wine tasting
Visiting the area’s wineries and taking part in wine tastings are not only essential to your trip, but it is also educational as you learn about the winemaking process and the history behind the South African wine industry. Wines are paired with delectable treats like cheese, chocolate, and other connoisseur-approved eats. While you are there, you can make use of the highly recommended picnic facilities on offer at many of the wine estates.
Browse the shops and markets
For an unmissable local shopping experience, browse through boutique clothing, decor, African curio crafts, and artisanal products like meats and cheeses. Pop in at the Belgian chocolatier for some artisan chocolate or walk along the same street to get oil straight from the tap. Then, admire the items in the art galleries and antique shops. Over the weekend, the Franschhoek Village Market boasts a selection of everything local, crafty, or homemade. To experience the vibrance of the people, food, and titbits of this town all in one place, we definitely recommend adding the market to your itinerary.
Explore nature trails
Adventure with a view as you use the trails in this area for walking, mountain biking, or taking it a little bit easier with horse riding or e-bike tours. Maybe even a view from above with paragliding. 🤷🏻♀️ For hiking, try the Dutoitskop Trail in Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. Permits can be obtained at the Tourism Office.
Live luxuriously
Franschhoek knows how to live luxuriously with everything from golfing and horse riding, to high-teas and spas. If you plan on spoiling yourself, this is the place to be. And by good fortune, the views will make it even better!
If you can’t decide where to start or if you only have limited time to spend in this town, have a look at our top 7 things to do in Franschhoek.
Nearby sites
Cape Winelands
The vineyard vistas and excellent wines don’t stop here. As Franschhoek forms part of the Cape Winelands, and it’s located only 30-40 minutes away from nearby wine routes, you can benefit from reading our complete guide to the Cape Winelands to guide you through this magical stretch.
Cape Town
Cape Town is built just under the famous Table Mountain and looks out onto the Atlantic ocean. If you want to include some city thrills in your trip, you definitely want to read our complete guide to Cape Town. When you are in the Western Cape province of South Africa, this city must be one of your stops.
Where to stay
Accommodation
Basic
Stay in a family-friendly bed and breakfast with well-appointed rooms in Stellenbosch. A sun terrace, pool, and barbeque facilities will be just what you need after a full day of exploring the Winelands.
Stay in elegant rooms in the Paradyskloof Valley where you can look at Simonsberg, the Stellenbosch Mountain, and Helderberg Mountains from your private balcony or sip a glass of quality local wine at the guesthouse’s swimming pool.
Africa’s first bike hotel offers a 5-star experience in comfy en-suite rooms. Check out the hotel’s bike training area, restaurant, wellness centre and relaxation areas to ensure your stay is full of excitement and restoration.
Medium
Stay in the town of Stellenbosch in a restored Victorian-style guesthouse and declared national monument built in 1904. Enjoy the convenience of the central location with its elegant rooms and mosaic pool.
Where the mountains and waterfalls of Franschhoek meet, you will find carefully curated luxury cottages, a riverside deck, nature walks, orchards, and free-roaming chickens and cows to anchor a land where regeneration and organic togetherness emerge.
A perfectly located Franschhoek guest house slightly removed from the vibrant and buzzing centre, yet within walking distance of all the town has to offer. The property with its 8 well-decorated rooms is also eco-aware, with an environmentally friendly water recycling programme in place.
Fancy
Resting below the Franschhoek mountains and surrounded by vineyards, The Owner's Cottage offers luxurious and private en-suite accommodation for a maximum of 14 guests amidst stunning manicured gardens, complete with a private swimming pool and secluded patio.
A 5-star sanctuary with individually styled rooms located in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Surrounded by prestigious wine farms, world-class restaurants, and incredible hiking and cycling tracks, you can also choose to unwind in an enclosed eco-pool or with a guided yoga session.
How to include Franschhoek in your South African adventure
Franschhoek is just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town International Airport, allowing you to go straight there after you have landed in South Africa, if you choose to do so. As it is within close proximity of Cape Town, it makes it very accessible for day trips. If you are exploring the Cape Winelands in general, Franschhoek is an ideal location to use as a base. To get the most out of this town, make a day trip out of it or stay 2-3 nights if you want to take it easier and have a look at the surrounding areas as well.
Insider Tips
Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be walking along streets and through gardens as you discover the highlights of this town (and you will definitely want to explore every inch of it).
Skip the plastic bags—bring a reusable tote bag to carry all the local goodies available for you to purchase.
If you go on the wine tram and you purchase any wine, the tram drivers can keep it safe for you while you continue exploring. They’ll deliver it to the ticket office where you can pick it up later.
Romantic enough for couples, fun enough for the adventurous, and tranquil enough for the ones who need to get away, this town is a must-see South African destination. Franschhoek is calling you—ready to plan your trip?
