One of South Africa’s oldest towns is also one of its most beautiful. Franschhoek lies in a fertile valley about 70km outside the city of Cape Town, surrounded by towering mountains right round.
It is in the heart of the Cape Winelands, a region in the Western Cape that is known for rolling, green vineyards, grand and historic manor houses and the finest restaurants and wine farms in the country - a lovely holiday destination for families who appreciate natural beauty as well as gourmet restaurant outings, historic estates and an upmarket country experience.
Accommodation in Franschhoek
For those looking for places to stay in Franschhoek, South Africa, there is quite a range of elegant and luxurious properties. You can choose from romantic two bedroom accommodation to rustic three bedroom accommodation and larger four bedroom accommodation. There are also superb five bedroom accommodation choices available.
Think gorgeous properties with manicured lawns and charming gardens, sparkling swimming pools and magnificent views of the Franschhoek Mountains. Some establishments are situated on farms or estates for extra privacy as well as security, ensuring that you and your family can really get down to the serious business of relaxation.
Exclusive apartments, graceful villas and renovated self-catering cottages are fitted with gourmet kitchens, cutting-edge technological devices and contemporary art and interior design, swimming or plunge pools to ensure you want for nothing while on vacation.
Find a holiday rental
When looking for self-catering accommodation in Franschhoek, the easiest option is to go to the accommodation section of a site like Cape Town Villas. All properties are listed for your convenience with details and good photographs on hand – enabling you to browse what is available within seconds.
Regardless of whether you are looking for a studio apartment or a discreet villa, you will be sure to find what you are looking for. Choices include:
- Luxurious holiday villas
- Stylish garden apartments
- Upmarket, self-catering rentals
- Lovely mountain and vineyard views
- Proximity to restaurants, bars, art galleries
- Dreamy upmarket cottages
The French touch
Luxury accommodation can be found in the heart of the town, where the French names and town colours hint at the town’s proud heritage. Founded in the 17th century by French Huguenots fleeing an oppressive regime in France, the town of Franschhoek has carefully preserved its heritage.
Farms like La Motte, La Cotte, La Dauphine and La Provence were established by the French settlers and have been maintained over the years, most of these are open to visitors with galleries, restaurants and wine tastings. The French character of the town can be seen in street names too and once a year the town celebrates Bastille Day with a festival that attracts visitors from all over the country.
The Huguenot Monument at the end of the main road honours the original settlers and is situated in a beautiful garden where the little ones can tire themselves out.
Things to do in Franschhoek
Franschhoek self-catering accommodation offers families the most freedom when on holiday. Booking a spot close to the town centre is great for families with children as you can then walk down to the many shops and art galleries.
Cycling through the streets is fun for young and old and several restaurants have play areas where the kiddies may amuse themselves while parents enjoy a fine wine or a delicious gelato.
The town is known as the food and wine capital of South Africa and there is an impressive list of restaurants to choose from for any of your meals each day. There is even a famous Belgian patisserie for Belgian chocolates.
Families with children will want to go on one of the tram rides through the Winelands as well. The historic tram has been renovated for scenic excursions and travel to various destinations in and around Franschhoek, including to some of the old wine estates with their gracious manor houses and magnificent grounds.
Many different kinds of holidays
When planning a holiday in the Cape Town vicinity, everything depends on the number of days that you have available. For visitors with a week or two at their disposal, it is always possible to book both a holiday villa in Franschhoek as well as a few nights in a holiday house on the Atlantic Seaboard.
In this way, you can combine the best of the region’s delights and get a bit of seaside vacationing done as well. As Franschhoek lies close to Cape Town, you would be driving only one-and-a-half hours from one place to the next.
Why Franschhoek?
For those looking for Winelands accommodation, it does not come much better than Franschhoek holiday homes. Franschhoek is peaceful and quiet, an idyllic rural retreat with a delightful French flavour.
It is no wonder that it is a favourite weekend and holiday getaway for locals as well as a romantic honeymoon destination. Franschhoek accommodation offers elegance and old world charm combined with the magnificent natural scenery.
Activities for families with children abound: there are trout farms to visit as well as walks and trails to explore in the mountains. Parks and playgrounds are also in the town and the streets are safe for ambling about.
Holiday in style
If you are looking for a rural escape that is both refined and upmarket, then Franschhoek is ideal. It is close to other scenic towns like Stellenbosch and Paarl and even Cape Town is not too far away for a day outing.
Let us at Cape Town Villas assist you in making the choice of where to stay in Franschhoek. Our experienced and enthusiastic staff will help you find the perfect holiday home!