MONT ROCHELLE – FOR TOTAL RELAXATION

“This captivating, 26-bedroom hotel and vineyard was undoubtedly one of our favourites. The views over the Franschhoek Valley are absolutely astounding and the 91 acres of vineyards just ripe for exploring. The hotel’s more informal restaurant, the Country Kitchen, adjacent to the wine cellar, is a lovely option for lunch – they also prepare gourmet picnics to take with you as you explore the grounds. A champion choice for anyone who wants to unwind and explore what the wine region has to offer.

LEEU ESTATES – FOR BEAUTIFUL VISTAS

Another hotel that stole our hearts, just 10 minutes from the centre of Franschhoek, this private country house hideaway and boutique winery is surrounded by 168 square-acres of fynbos, vineyards and landscaped gardens. The views across the valley to the mountains are spellbinding and the rooms, cottages and suites are spacious, individually styled and luxuriously appointed. It’s heavenly for honeymooners who want that tranquil setting, or families that need a bit more space. It’s also home to La Petit Colombe, ranked among South Africa’s top 10 restaurants.

LEEU HOUSE – AN INTIMATE RETREAT

Sitting in the heart of the action, this peaceful haven is calm, intimate and inviting, with 13 rooms – their interiors a contemporary take on Franschhoek’s traditional Cape Dutch heritage – set around a luscious little garden. Boutiques, art galleries and some of the region’s finest restaurants are right on your doorstep and the delicious all-day dining menu at The Conservatory is available to resident guests only (as are the lounge, pool and garden). An oasis of tranquillity and comfort, with an exclusive, remote country residence atmosphere.

LE QUARTIER FRANÇAIS – GREAT FOR GOURMANDS

Another terrific hotel in the middle of Franschhoek, the 25-room Le Quartier Français oozes romance and repose. It’s another brilliant base from which to step out and discover all the village’s quaint charms. For extra privacy, check into the Pool Suite, set in its own little walled garden. Protégé, the more casual eatery, gives talented young chefs the opportunity to put themselves on the map; while Épice – another venture from La Colombe – features a flavour-packed, spice-infused menu inspired by the team’s culinary expeditions.

The gourmet capital of South Africa, crammed with cute cafés, restaurants and more than 40 wineries. You can spend hours exploring the quaint shops, galleries, chocolaterie, charcuterie or enjoy horse-riding and golf.

It’s such a pretty little town in an alluring valley, but we definitely felt we’d prefer to stay at one of the vineyards or estates a little further out, as their views are absolutely otherworldly. Plus, they’re only a few minutes away should you want to pop into town for lunch, dinner or a stroll around the shops.

Aside from Épice and Protégé at Le Quartier Français, we really enjoyed the super-casual, tapas style street food menu at the Tuk Tuk Microbrewery (the only microbrewery on Huguenot Street) and Ōku – Franschhoek’s first Asian eatery. Formerly The Marigold, this is Japanese cuisine at its finest and a truly wonderful dining event from beginning to end.

For wine-tasting, pay a visit to the Delaire Graff Estate, just outside Stellenbosch (around 40 minutes from Franschhoek). The estate is in a stunning setting atop the Helshoogte Pass and overlooking the Simonsberg Mountains. Go to HŌSEKI, where dishes are crafted to be shared at the table, served in a way that honours Japanese culture and customs, while sampling a selection of Delaire’s wines.

We particularly liked their rosé, which is unusual for us! A day on Franschhoek’s famous Wine Tram is a good shout too. Leave the car at your hotel and traverse through the remarkable, rolling vineyards on a vintage tram. Choose a route and hop on and off at a variety of vineyards at your leisure, savouring the delightful wines as you go!”