If you’re planning a trip to Cape Town, exploring the surrounding wineland towns will make it an even richer experience.
One such town is Franschhoek, which is known as the Gourmet Capital of South Africa. It’s renowned for its scenic beauty, fine dining, wines, art galleries, festivals, and more!
If you want a rich cultural experience, Franschhoek is a top attraction to add to your itinerary. Similarly, if you’re a local, it’s a perfect option for a weekend getaway.
Here’s how you can explore Franschhoek
Franschhoek is not only a cultural and gourmet capital, but it also has a rich history. In Dutch, the name means “French Corner”, and the town, sometimes referred to as a village too, dates back to the 1680s. This was when French Huguenots fled from France and found a new home in the Cape.
If you want to get a taste of Franschhoek and its fine wines, start by touring a few wine farms. There are numerous touring options available, such as the Franschhoek Wine Tram. You can hop on and hop off at various wine farms or opt for a “Curated Wine Experience” for a deep dive into the art of wine making and tasting.
You definitely won’t go hungry here either. There are ample dining options that include award-winning establishments, including restaurants at wine farms. You can choose from a variety of different types of dining establishments, from more casual to finer dining options. Whether you need a coffee shop, a bistro, or a fancy menu for dinner, there’s something for everyone.
After you’ve enjoyed something to eat and drink, take a walk along the main road and explore all the various shops and art galleries. Other activities include visiting the heritage sites and museums, notably the Huguenot Memorial Monument and Museum, the markets, or making use of the outdoors and surrounding scenery by hiking, golfing, horse riding, or taking a tranquil drive.
