About Franschhoek | Franschhoek's history goes back to the late 17th century, when exiled French Huguenots built wine farms in the Oliphantshoek (Elephants Valley), later known as the "French Corner", Franschhoek. Persecuted because of their protestant religion, 277 Huguenots embarked on a month's long journey to the Cape of Good Hope, where the Dutch had founded a new colony. The French Huguenots were given land in this fertile Elephants valley to start the South African wine culture. Indeed, with their knowledge of wine growing, the Huguenots had found the right spot and climate to plant and cultivate successfully hectares of grapes.
Food and wine | Besides their expertise on wine growing, the Huguenots also brought with them the French fine cuisine, which might explain Franschhoek is nowadays considered to be the gourmet capital of South Africa. Amongst app. 40 wine estates, many still bearing their original French names, you will find in Franschhoek a rich diversity of restaurants, 8 of them belonging to the top 100 fine restaurants of South Africa. Many of the wine farms are open to the public for wine tastings. Visit them by foot, by car or take a specialised wine tour: they are all situated in or around Franschhoek. Surrounded by majestic mountains, this relative small village becomes during the South African summer (November - March) a vibrant mix of international tourists, stylish Capetonians and colourful, hospitable locals.
Accommodation in Franschhoek | From self catering cottages, intimate guest houses, luxurious hotels and bread and breakfasts, Franschhoek offers accommodation for visitors within their budget. One of the guest houses is The Corner House Guest House, a small, 6 rooms, intimate guest house, which prides itself on its spotless rooms, delicious full breakfasts, its large immaculate garden and sparkling swimming pool.
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Tourism Grading Council of South Africa |