From lush vineyards and mountain escarpments, to gourmet delights and old world charm, Franschhoek in the Western Cape is quite comparable to southern France. In fact, Franschhoek is thought of by many as being the food and wine capital of South Africa! Those from France who are visiting the Western Cape, and are missing le familier, should keep reading to discover the best local places in our little French paradise.

Wineries

The beautiful valley of Franschhoek, meaning French corner, has plenty of Huguenot influences in all spheres of community life, most notably with the distinctive architectural styles in and around town. There are numerous wine farms in this area, such as La Dauphine and La Provence, which have been around since the French first settled here in 1688, with one of the top and oldest wineries being La Motte. It is a well-established local favourite that has recently joined the newly opened Franschhoek Méthode Cap Classique (MCC) Route.

This beautiful estate has received several international awards over the years for the superb quality of their wines, and their country setting will not disappoint aesthetic lovers. Apart from wine tastings and meals at their restaurant, you can enjoy a variety of other activities such as organic and historic walks, hiking trails, tours of their museum, and classical concerts in season. Their farm shop with its freshly baked and preserved goods is also well worth a visit.

Food

French cuisine is known for being delightful to look at, as well as sensational to taste. For authentic recipes and atmospheres, the following places will certainly provide any French traveller with flavours from home, though not all of them provide haute cuisine:

Bistro – On the corner of Bordeaux and Huguenot streets, is French Connection Bistro, which has a warm, welcoming atmosphere. They serve a variety of French cuisines, from pate de champagne, to moules frites and hazelnut anglaise, as well as the occasional English and Scottish meal. The indoor fireplace is a big hit in the cooler season, while their sidewalk seats are delightful in summer.

Brassier – With a variety of light tapas meals, cheese and wine pairings, and main meals that include favourites such as quail ‘a la Francaise and Chateaubriand fillet, Mon Plaisir at Chamonix Estate will provide each visitor with an unforgettable dining experience. They can be found along Uitkyk Street.

Café – If you are after a classic and casual café atmosphere, Le Café within Boschendal Manor is what you seek, and you’ll be chatting away with friends, while savouring the cheese platter made from local cheeses in no time at all. Light lunch items are available, and their selection of wines and warm beverages are c’est magnifique!

Wellness

Being pampered is a definite treat that all nationalities enjoy, but the chic French nation has made wellness into a seasonal art. In fact, some French statistics state that Mademoiselles go for at least four facials a year, and massages as often as finances allow. Rest assured that while here on holiday or business, you won’t have to neglect your beauty routines:

Situated within the La Terra de Luc estate is The Secret Wellness Studio, which provides you with an ideal country escape. There are a variety of facial therapies available using RegimA, as well as Peel and Heal treatments. Tanning is also available as are numerous styles of body massages, facial massages, and reflexology treatments.

Upcoming South African Season in France

A very successful ‘Plaisirs de France in South Africa’ happened in Franschhoek last year, where over 100 events, performances, and food and wine tastings were showcased from June – November. South Africa will reciprocate by holding a ‘South African Season in France’, during May – December 2013. Those who’ll have returned to France during this period should keep an eye out for some of our local traditions and festivals.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, we’ve rounded up 3 of the top French-inspired accommodations on offer around South Africa.

Let us know if you’ve got any recommended places to see or things to do while in the beautiful Franschhoek area.

Main image credited to Samantha Marx (Flickr)