The Franschhoek Wine Region is located in the Western Cape of South Africa, and it is amongst the most beautiful wine valleys in the world.

Also known as the Gourmet Capital of South Africa, Franschhoek (meaning French Corner in Dutch), has retained its distinct French Huguenot character and is a proud member of The Delice Network of Good Food Cities of the World.

What’s more, Franschhoek is about 1 hour’s drive by car from the vibrant Cape Town (often ranked as one of the most beautiful cities in the world).

The Franschhoek Wine Region lies to the southeast of the town of Paarl and is enclosed on three sides by towering mountains (a dusting of snow covers them in winter): the Groot Drakenstein and Franschhoek Mountains which meet at the top of the valley and the Klein Drakenstein and Simonsberg Mountains, found further down towards the Paarl Wine Region.

The Valley of Franschhoek offers visitors breathtaking scenery, warm hospitality, fine wines, mouth-watering gourmet experiences, curated day tours, distinctive artists and a small village atmosphere.

Wine and food plays an integral roll in the economy of Franschhoek.

Guests are able to enjoy tastings, wine and food pairings, chocolate making, cheese tastings, cooking classes, olive and olive oil tastings, beer tastings and pairings as well as a brandy or gin tasting.

The Wine of the Franschhoek Wine Region.

This beautiful, small wine valley is home to some of South Africa’s most famous wine estates and has been producing wine since the 17th century.

Although you will find many different varietals in the Franschhoek Wine Valley, Shiraz, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are what really makes sense here.

Pinot Noir is also widely planted for the production of Methode Cap Classique (Franschhoek is a major producer of bubbles in South Africa).

The vineyards of Franschhoek sit within a clearly defined valley.

Franschhoek has a warm, continental climate, ideally suited to the production of heavy, robust red wines and rich, fruit driven white wines.

The mountains surrounding the area help trap the cool southerly winds, thus lengthening the growing season and producing complex aromas in the grapes.

Is there only wine available in the Franschhoek Region?

The short answer is NO.

There are a couple of micro-breweries in the area as well as excellent craft gin producers.

Franschhoek offers something for everyone. 

Things to do in the Franschhoek Wine Region.

Besides the obvious excellent restaurants to visit and wine tours we can also highly recommend the Franschhoek Vineyard Hopper.

If wine and food is not your thing (is this even possible) then Franschhoek also offer guests many small art galleries, shops, coffee shops and other boutique retail outlets.

For the more adventurous Franschhoek has many mountain bike and hiking trails and there are some spots for guests to enjoy fly-fishing.

Festivals and Events in and around the Franschhoek Wine Region.

There is always something happening in this vibrant wine valley.

Amongst others, events include the following. 

• Various Farmer’s Markets / Night Markets
• Franschhoek Uncorked
• Franschhoek Bastille Festival
• MCC / Champagne Festival
• Franschhoek Literally Festival
• Protea Party
• Franschhoek Summer Wines
• Franschhoek Winter Wines
• Open Gardens Festival.
• Various Harvest Festivals

As you can see, Franschhoek offers many different experiences.

We look forward to host you in this magnificent village.

Places to Visit and Things to do in the Franschhoek Wine Region.

Wineries:

Moreson Wine Farm