The town of Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands may not be the biggest in the Western Cape, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in quality – both in terms of wine and gastronomy.
Franschhoek has always been considered a valley of abundance and it continues to expand on what it has to offer, with the old favourites and new establishments combining to deliver something truly special, from the oak barrels of the vineyards and the steel kegs of the brewers to the gastronomic wonders produced in the kitchens of the gourmet restaurants and local cafes.
Discover Franschhoek this winter and be sure to stay a while, because you will need plenty of time to explore what's on offer.
Big Dog Café
What to expect: Perfect for all seasons, the interior of Big Dog Café, which opened its doors in May, 2017, provides a warm, intimate environment in winter and an airy, light atmosphere in the summer, with its light wood walls and comfy seating arrangements working wonderfully for both. There is also a great outdoor area for the warmer months and plenty of space for the kids to explore. Based at the flagship Terbodore Coffee Roastery, you know the coffee is top-notch, while the menu is simple, wholesome fare, that doesn’t attempt to re-invent the wheel. We recommend the hot cakes!
Website: https://www.facebook.com/BigDogFHK/
Haut Espoir
What to expect: Haut Espoir – meaning ‘High Hope’ – is nestled in the mountains at the end of the Franschhoek Valley. This family-run boutique winery produces distinctive, hand-crafted wines in harmony with nature. The 23-hectare farm has reserved 8 hectares to plant shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, petit verdot and cabernet franc, while the remainder of the land has been set aside fynbos restoration, a riverine ecosystem, olive groves and vegetable and herb garden. Tastings are by appointment only and held in the cellar.
Website: http://www.hautespoir.co.za/
La Petite Ferme
What to expect: La Petit Ferme boasts some of the most stunning views in the valley – the perfect backdrop to enjoy the restaurant’s delicious contemporary country cuisine. Well-known for its exquisite food, paired with fantastic boutique wines, the award-winning restaurant is one of the most popular in the valley and with good reason. The team in the kitchen has recently changed – with Great quality, at affordable prices, there is no better place to soak in the wonders of this beautiful valley.
Website: http://www.lapetiteferme.co.za/
De Villiers Chocolatiers
What to expect: It may have started as a ‘hobby’ in their garage, but De Villiers Chocolate is certainly more than just a mere hobby nowadays. Sourcing the finest chocolate from around the world, DVC creates their artisanal chocolate products in their Bean to Bar factory and chocolate kitchen on-site. Their passion for chocolate soon led them to venture into ice cream and coffee and the resulting combination is quite magnificent.
Website: http://www.dvchocolate.com/
Tuk Tuk Microbrewery
What to expect: Described by brewmaster Dewald Goosen as a “very nice little brewery on steroids”, Tuk Tuk Microbrewery is the result of a partnership between the Cape Brewing Company (CBC) and the Leeu Collection. Goosen has quickly made a name for himself with his bespoke brews, all made on site in the 250-litre capacity copper microbrewery. There are currently five craft beers in the Tuk Tuk stable with the Dunkel highly-recommended. Tuk Tuk offers a tasting of 4 beers and another with 8 to test. And if you’re up for something light to eat, to along with the beer tasting, there are also some great Mexican-inspired meals to tuck into as well.
Website: http://tuktukbrew.com/
Marigold
What to expect: Franschhoek’s first authentic Indian restaurant, Marigold specialises in a variety of Indian dishes, from fragrant curries and briyanis to succulent meat cooked in the charcoal tandoor. Marigold head chef Vanie Padayachee has created something really special here, and best you bring your appetite, because you will want to sample everything. The wine list here – as you would expect from a Franschhoek restaurant – is extensive, while Tuk Tuk beer is also available on the menu, with Marigold also forming part of the Leeu Collection. We recommend the sharing menu, which will allow you try everything on the menu, while still allowing you to move afterwards!
Website: https://leeucollection.com/dine/heritage-square/
Mont Rochelle Hotel
What to expect: Mont Rochelle is the kind of property you can explore for hours on end, not just because of its sheer magnitude, but its imperious beauty as well. The incredible 26-room hotel and vineyard is quite spectacular, with its 39 hectares encompassing the natural beauty of the land seamlessly. Offering panoramic views of the Dassenberg Mountains, Mont Rochelle has two restaurants - The Country Kitchen and Miko – and also offers personalised wine tastings in the property’s cellar. Many guests simply picnic on the grounds, happy to soak in the splendour of the estate, and upon arrival it’s not hard to understand why. There is also a tennis court and croquet green, a spa and gym, as well as plenty of activities such as horse riding (combined with wine if you choose) and hiking in the area.
Website: http://www.virginlimitededition.com/en/mont-rochelle/
