Six things to do in Franschhoek
Tucked into the heart of the Cape Winelands, Franschhoek earns its nickname – 'the France of South Africa' – with good reason. Settled by French Huguenots in the late 1600s, this small valley town fuses European flair with South African soul. Think vineyard-covered hills, fine food, and quiet streets lined with galleries, cafés, and Cape Dutch architecture. Here's what to do in Franschhoek if you want to experience it right…
Franschhoek is wine country at its finest. Dozens of estates produce award-winning wines – especially Cap Classique, South Africa's sparkling answer to Champagne. The best way to sample them? Hop aboard the Franschhoek Wine Tram. It loops through the valley with stops at top wineries like La Motte, Haute Cabrière, and Boschendal. No need to drive, no need to rush – just ride, taste, and repeat.
This town punches far above its weight when it comes to food. Franschhoek is a culinary powerhouse, home to some of South Africa's top restaurants. For fine dining, book a table at Le Coin Français, Epice, or Protégé. For something more relaxed, grab a shaded spot at the Village Market or sip rosé with a farm-to-table lunch at Babylonstoren. Either way, the food is fresh, the wine is flowing, and the views are stunning. 3. Dive into the Huguenot history
The French roots of Franschhoek aren't just a vibe – they're real! Visit the Huguenot Memorial and Museum to get the backstory on how these Protestant refugees helped shape the area. The gardens surrounding the monument are peaceful and worth a stroll.
Franschhoek isn't just for wining and dining. The Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve offers hiking trails with sweeping views of the valley below. If you're feeling more active, rent a bike and pedal your way from one vineyard to the next. The landscape is generous, green, and never flat for long.
On the edge of town, tucked inside the L'Ormarins estate, you'll find a gearhead's dream: the Franschhoek Motor Museum. It's packed with over 200 classic cars, from vintage Rolls Royces to iconic Ferraris. Even if you're not into cars, the collection is impressive enough to convert you.
Franschhoek's creative streak runs deep. Small galleries are scattered across the village, showcasing everything from fine art to handmade ceramics. The annual Art Franschhoek festival is a great time to visit, but even on a quiet weekday, you'll find inspiration around every corner.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The South African
18 hours ago
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs include EIGHT new signings in Netherlands touring group
Kaizer Chiefs travel to the Netherlands in July for a pre-season tour. Fans will get a glimpse of eight brand-new faces, including Asanele Velebayi. Four players have been promoted from the DDC side. Meanwhile, Chiefs have also sealed deals for four other stars. 'Mayele will only come to South Africa for a holiday and Amapiano' Paseka Mako, Thabiso Monyane, Kabelo Nkgwesa, Asanele Velebayi, Thulani Mabaso, Manqoba Ozoemena, Etiosa Ighodaro and Naledi Hlongwane are the eight new faces fans can get a closer look at when Chiefs tour the land of the tulips. Sirino SARS scandal simmers away As you'll know by now, Chiefs are heading to the land of Dennis Bergkamp, Virgil van Dijk and Wesley Sneijder for their European pre-season tour adventure. The Glamour Boys jet out on 03 July and conclude the tour on 19 July. It should be a fun fortnight! George Matlou, somewhat surprisingly, will be on the flight. Attacking midfielder Ozoemena has already shown his creative spark for the DDC side, while striker Hlongwane comes with a high reputation. Utility defender Nkgwesa and left-footed holding midfielder Mabaso are also part of the travelling party and will be keen to make an impact. Thulani Mabaso training at the Kaizer Chiefs Naturena base. Image: @kaizerchiefs/Instagram Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Also, subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
18 hours ago
- The South African
Popular Cape Town hotel undergoes R1 billion makeover ahead of your next stay
The iconic Table Bay Hotel, nestled in the heart of the V&A Waterfront, is undergoing a landmark R1 billion refurbishment, marking the most significant transformation in its nearly three-decade history. The upgrade not only promises an elevated guest experience, but also introduces a prestigious new identity under the InterContinental brand. Closed earlier this year to begin renovations, the hotel is now owned by the V&A Waterfront and managed by Sun International, the group behind the hotel's original legacy. The refurbishment is set to modernise the hotel's offerings while preserving the timeless elegance that has made it one of Cape Town's premier luxury destinations. Key features of the dramatic overhaul include: A state-of-the-art spa for holistic wellness experiences for holistic wellness experiences A revamped reception and dining area that reflects the hotel's world-class status that reflects the hotel's world-class status An elevated pool bar and terrace with sweeping views of Table Mountain and the harbour with sweeping views of and the harbour The addition of an Executive Club Floor and Lounge , catering to elite InterContinental guests , catering to elite InterContinental guests 45 brand-new guest suites, bringing the total room count to 306 First opened on 30 May 1997, the Table Bay Hotel holds a special place in South African history, having been inaugurated by President Nelson Mandela himself. Hospitality titan Sol Kerzner, then CEO of Sun International, played a pivotal role in its creation, famously insisting the building face Table Mountain directly – an architectural decision that continues to enchant guests. 'This revamp is more than cosmetic; it's a rejuvenation of one of Cape Town's most treasured hospitality landmarks,' said a spokesperson for Sun International. As part of the rebrand, the Table Bay Hotel will join IHG's luxury portfolio as the first InterContinental property in Cape Town. This move is expected to boost Cape Town's global tourism appeal and reinforce the V&A Waterfront's status as a top-tier international destination. The newly reimagined InterContinental Cape Town at the V&A Waterfront is scheduled to reopen its doors in December this year, just in time for the festive season. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
2 days ago
- IOL News
Michael Mayalo to Launch First Book at China–SA Youth Night
More than just a travel memoir, 'China Through My Eyes' explores themes of global identity, youth empowerment, and intercultural understanding. Image: Supplied South African social entrepreneur, youth activist, and writer Michael Mayalo is set to make his literary debut with the launch of his first book, 'China Through My Eyes', at the upcoming China–South Africa Youth Night on June 23, 2025, in Pretoria. The book, which has been three years in the making, reflects Michael's deeply personal journey and cultural awakening during his short-term studies in China. More than just a travel memoir, 'China Through My Eyes' explores themes of global identity, youth empowerment, and intercultural understanding - told through the authentic voice of an African who has experienced life beyond his borders and returned inspired to share. 'This is not just my story,' says Mayalo. 'It's a story for every young person who dreams of seeing the world, learning from it, and bringing something back to build their own communities.' The China–South Africa Youth Night is a symbolic event celebrating the growing ties between the two nations, and Mayalo's book will be one of its highlights. The evening will bring together youth leaders, diplomats, creatives, and cultural performers in a celebration of connection and collaboration. Michael will share a few remarks and will also be signing copies of his book. In addition to the Pretoria launch, Michael will also be taking 'China Through My Eyes' on a national tour, with planned launches in Cape Town and the Eastern Cape. As part of this rollout, he will be visiting schools and universities, engaging directly with young people to discuss the themes of the book and the importance of global exposure and cultural exchange. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ As a respected youth activist, Michael Mayalo has been at the forefront of youth-led development, social impact, and community dialogue in South Africa. Now, with 'China Through My Eyes', he adds 'author' to his growing list of contributions — using his voice to inspire minds across borders. The book is expected to resonate not only with students and young professionals but also with educators, policy-makers, and anyone interested in the power of cross-cultural storytelling.
