Do you want to spend your day or weekend in the food and wine capital of South Africa? Franschhoek is a charming small town in the Western Cape that has a lot to offer.
What to do on your trip to Franschhoek
Franschhoek is a gem of a destination and no wonder it has been mentioned in “Time” Magazine (2022), as one of the Top 50 greatest places in the world! It is surrounded by beautiful mountains, historical vineyards, and Cape Dutch architecture. It is popular for having an enticing wine culture and being a culinary hotspot. If you are looking for adventure or history, you will most definitely be satisfied in Franschhoek.
Here are a few ideas of what to do on your trip to Franschhoek. A 1 to 3-night visit will be ideal.
Franschhoek Wine Tram
The Hop-on Hop-off Experience includes different routes, with 31 Wine Estates. The landscapes alone are worth the journey! It’s recommended to visit 3 estates, so you can get a quality above quantity experience. Each estate has unique offerings for you to choose the route best suited for your liking. Some offerings and dining reservations at the estates require a 24-hour booking in advance. The wine-tasting fees at each estate (ranging between R50 to R260 per person) are not included in the Wine Tram price.
Prices: adult R280 / child (3-17years) R90. You can add a transfer from and to Cape Town during the booking process at an additional fee.
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Boschendal Wine Estate
At Boschendal Wine Estate your taste buds are in for a treat with all of its tasting pairings, including chocolate, cheese, and charcuterie boards.
The Werf picnic baskets are very popular. Including natural farm produce, freshly baked bread, free-range charcuterie cuts from the Boschendal Butchery, homemade preserves, and delicious desserts, (starting from R375). Gather your family and friends to create a delightful day underneath the trees.
If you are up for an adventure, Boschendal offers guided 1-hour horseriding tours (R650 p/p per hour) with magnificent panoramic views of the Franschhoek Valley.
Open from Monday to Sunday from 10h00 to 17h30
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Mont Rochelle
Month Rochelle is at the foot of the Klein Dassenberg Mountain Range. It is a superb location for relaxation and a culinary experience, including accommodation, restaurants, and a spa.
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The Miko is a fine dining restaurant with a 180-degree view of the Franschhoek valley and surrounding vineyards and mountains. The cuisine includes some of South Africa’s favourite dishes. Each dish is made with the freshest locally sourced ingredients paired with award-winning South African wines.
The Country Kitchen restaurant is a more relaxed casual dining experience, also including lawn picnics. You are guaranteed to enjoy the views.
The Spa is the place to be for a well-deserved pampering getaway. They offer bespoke experiences, where you can relax, and nourish yourself. From signature facials, nature-inspired massages, and stimulating body scrubs to manicures and pedicures, you will most definitely leave feeling rejuvenated.
Open daily from 8h00 – 20h00.
The Franschhoek Village Market
The Franschhoek Village Market is a great way to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the town. The Market is all about community, bringing together the locals, traders, and visitors from all over. You can enjoy a selection of local fresh produce, craft beers, coffee, crafts, vintage clothing, and antiques, and enjoy upbeat live music underneath the historic Oak trees of Franschhoek.
Every Saturday from 9h00 to 15h00, if the weather permits it. Free entry and parking and most traders only accept cash and SnapScan. There are limited credit card facilities, but ATMs are within walking distance.
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Franschhoek Motor Museum
There is only one place in South Africa that can sufficiently represent the evolution of motors. Franschhoek Motor Museum displays over 100 years of automotive history. With a unique and extensive collection of antique and vintage vehicles, motorcycles, and bicycles, it will certainly spark an interest in anyone and not just motor enthusiasts. The collection has over 220 vehicles and is presented in chronological order. You can book a museum tour and also grab a snack at their deli. The Museum is open all year round, except Good Friday and Christmas.
They only accept electronic payments for bookings. You can book here. Prices: adult R80, pensioners R60, child R40.
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Huguenot Memorial Museum
This museum tells the story of the French Huguenots during the global refugee phenomenon. Their history of fighting for power, religion, and freedom. Don’t forget to also explore the South African Perfume Museum, the Huguenot Monument, and the wildflower garden.
You can buy your tickets, (Adults – R100 and Students and Children – R50) at the museum shop or book here.
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Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve
For all nature lovers and hikers, Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve has 10 hiking routes waiting to be discovered. Varying difficulty, ranging from one-hour leisurely walks to day-long hikes.
Open from sunrise to sunset all year round, including public holidays. You can buy a day permit for an adult (R70) and children 12 years and younger are for free, online here or at the entrance gate between 9h00 to 17h00 every day. (Debit or credit card and Zapper, NO CASH is accepted).
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There is so much more to do and see, this is just a glimpse of what Franschhoek has to offer! We hope that at least one idea has caught your attention to go and visit this charming town.
