Franschhoek, Cape Winelands | French corner of the Cape, Franshhoek lies in one of the most beautiful wine valleys in the world

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FRANSCHHOEK - CAPE WINELANDS

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Western Cape ť Cape Town ť Cape Winelands ť Franschhoek

Franschhoek, Cape Winelands: The French corner of the Cape, Franshoek 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 Franshoek, there are nigh 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.

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.

Franshoek’s village has a wonderful collection of art and antique shops and galleries and the main streets are lined with restaurants and coffee shops. It is easy to spend a day here and it serves as an excellent springboard to other wine routes and the Four Passes Fruit Route, of which Franshoek is also part; and there are a number of walking trails in the surrounding mountains, for the more energetic.

Overnight at Franschhoek accommodation or find an hotel in Franschhoek.

Also see Cape Winelands accommodation or find Cape Winelands hotels.

FRANSCHHOEK WINE ROUTE

Cape Wine Routes

Franschhoek Wine Route: The Valley of the Huguenots, as Franschhoek is also known, became home to a community of French Huguenots who fled their country from religious persecution. The Huguenots soon recognised that this valley had very similar weather to the wine growing regions in France. Today, over 300 years later, this tradition continues and the valley produces all the classic styles and noble cultivars - from whites such as Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Chenin Blanc through to the reds of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot and Pinot Noir. Over 30 wine cellars produce some of the country’s top wines.

The valley has just 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 long restaurant row on Huguenot Street in Franschhoek list Franschhoek wines on their menus.

HUGUENOT MEMORIAL IN FRANSCHHOEK

Huguenot Memorial: The Huguenot Monument is dedicated to the cultural influences that French Huguenots have brought to the Cape Colony after their immigration during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Memorial Museum neighbouring the monument elaborates on the history of the French Huguenots who settled in the Cape.

FRANSCHHOEK LITERARY FESTIVAL

For three days Franschhoek becomes a bustling get-together of readers, writers, booksellers and publishers. Visit the Franschhoek Literary Festival (held annually in May). Tickets for all events, including concerts are available from the Franschhoek Tourist Association. Additional Info: Franschhoek Literary Festival

BASTILLE DAY

Franschhoek celebrates its centuries-old French Huguenot heritage with a wonderful feast of food, wine and entertainment at its annual Bastille Festival held annually in July. With lots to see, do and enjoy for the whole family, make a memorable weekend of your visit. Additional Info: Bastille Day

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