Located in the scenic Cape winelands, Franschhoek is a valley of fine wine, gourmet cuisine and luxury hospitality. Franschhoek is a member of the Délice Network of Good Food Cities of the World. At the heart of the valley, with its Cape Dutch heritage and strong French influences, is the village of Franschhoek with its award-winning restaurants, craft breweries, chocolatiers, art galleries, boutiques and speciality stores.
The farms on the wine route in the valley, many with their own restaurants and other attractions, give a taste of the culture, history and passion that have come together here. Franschhoek also has its own Cap Classique route, linking Méthode Cap Classique producers in the valley, which is well known for its sparkling wine. The Franschhoek Wine Tram is a wine tasting first in the world.
Franschhoek is an hour’s drive from Cape Town. Outdoor activities include hiking, mountain biking and fly fishing. Within easy driving distance from Franschhoek are pristine beaches, golf courses and some of the best land-based whale watching in Hermanus.
The Franschhoek valley is surrounded on three sides by majestic mountain ranges and has a fascinating history. The valley was originally known as Olifantshoek (Elephant’s Corner) after the huge herds that roamed the area and whose annual migration wore away a mountain path known by the locals as Elephant’s Pass. Today, it is the famous Franschhoek Pass with its breathtakingly beautiful views over the valley. Due to the strong French influence on the valley, the settlement became known as Le Quartier Français (the French Quarter) and, later, as Franschhoek (French Corner).
Settled in 1688 by the French Huguenots, who were granted farmland on their arrival, Franschhoek has retained its Gallic charm and character. The Huguenot Monument at the top end of the village honours their heritage and the Huguenot Memorial Museum next to it is filled with the history of these settlers, who had a profound influence on the viticulture and farming skills of the valley.
