Originally known as the Valley of the Huguenots, a Community of French Huguenots were granted land in this Valley by the Dutch Government of the Cape, after fleeing their Homeland when Protestantism was outlawed in France in 1685. Today, many of the Wine Farms still bear their original French names and most of these Farms have beautiful examples of Cape Dutch Architecture.
Nestled in the Western Cape, Franschhoek, meaning “French Corner,” was established by French Huguenot refugees in 1688. The town’s Cape Dutch architecture, coupled with its renowned vineyards and gourmet restaurants, exudes a distinctly French ambiance. Visitors can explore the Huguenot Monument and Museum, indulge in wine tastings, and enjoy the annual Bastille Festival celebrating its French heritage. Franschhoek lies in one of the most beautiful wine Valleys in the World, just 45 minutes’ from Cape Town and within half an hour of the Stellenbosch, Paarl, Wellington and Somerset West Wine Routes.
'This traditionally French Town, is the food and wine Capital of the Country and one would be hard pressed to dispute the claim.' Eight of the top 100 Restaurants in the Country are found in Franschhoek, there are high on 30 Wine Cellars and over 28 Restaurants from which to choose for your 'gastronomic' experience.
The Franschhoek Valley has recently launched a Cap Classique Route that includes nine cellars, within a distance of 4 km, in a combined marketing initiative. The sparkling wine tour includes teaching visitors about the methods of making Cap Classique in a unique attempt to add value to wine consumption. The main street is lined with Galleries, Coffee Shops, Confectioneries and even a Chocolaterie!
Franschhoek Village, has a wonderful collection of art and antique shops and galleries. It is easy to spend a day here and it serves as an excellent springboard to other wine routes and the Four PassesFruit Route, of which Franschhoek is also part.There is also a number of Outdoor Activities in the surrounding Mountains for the more energetic! There are plenty of activities on offer from cycling, horse riding and fly fishing to simply exploring the beautiful countryside on foot. Those interested in the History of the Area should take time to visit the Huguenot Monument, the Memorial Museum and The Dutch Reformed Church.
