South Africa’s ‘French corner’ is the ultimate gourmet escape

2 months ago 5

Kerry van der Jagt

December 31, 2025 — 5:00am

Seven wonders within South Africa’s Franschhoek wine valley

An hour’s drive from Cape Town, the Franschhoek wine valley has earned its reputation as the gourmet capital of South Africa. But it’s not the only reason you should go.

Hop on the Franschhoek wine tram

The wine tram: all you need to do is pick a route.iStock

Who needs a designated driver when a double-decker tram is waiting to whisk you through Franschhoek’s finest vineyards? Buy a ticket for one of the five lines – blue, orange, pink, red or navy – and hop on or off at whichever wine estate takes your fancy. With almost 30 wineries in the collection, experiences range from paired tastings to cellar door tours, fine dining to horse riding. Visiting three estates in one day is plenty. See winetram.co.za

Go Dutch on the architecture

The Dutch Reformed Church in Franschhoek, South Africa.iStock

Influenced by the early Dutch, German and French settlers, the distinctive Cape Dutch architecture of whitewashed walls, thatched roofs and decorative gables is an endearing feature of the region. To see these heritage farmhouses set within lush vineyards against the majestic Groot Drakenstein Mountains, is the stuff of daydreams. Closer to town, Franschhoek’s main street boasts the stunning Dutch Reformed Church and a string of beautifully preserved private homes. See franschoek.org.za

Dine like a Parisienne

A slice of France in Franschhoek … French Connection Bistro.

The name Franschhoek – which means “French corner” in Dutch – hints at the delights to come. The table was prepared in the 17th century when a group of French Huguenots settled in the valley after fleeing religious persecution. Along with their wine-making skills, they brought their culinary flair. French Connection Bistro serves casual meals (forget choosing between the creme brulee and the tarte au citron – order both) or for fine dining with an Asian twist, La Petite Colombe is the piece de resistance. Don’t overlook the local supermarket – Checkers Food – for good cheese. See frenchconnection.co.za; lacolombe.restaurant

Learn about the flight of the Huguenots

The Huguenot Monument commemorates the arrival of the French Huguenots in the 17th century. Getty Images

On April 17, 1948 – more than 250 years after the arrival of the first French Protestant refugees in the Cape – the Huguenot Monument was unveiled to commemorate the event. Surrounded by mountains and set within a beautiful rose garden, the three soaring arches represent the Holy Trinity. The sculpture of a woman, holding a bible and a broken chain, symbolises freedom of religion, while the sundial is inscribed with the motto Post Tenebras Lux, meaning “light after darkness”. Even if you’re not religious, this place will lift your spirits. See huguenotsociety.org.za

Experience soil-to-fork dining at Boschendal

Splash out, eat casual, or grab some picnic fare. Getty Images

Founded in 1685, Boschendal is one of South Africa’s oldest wine estates, yet one of the most forward-thinking in terms of regenerative farming practices. With its onsite butchery, bakery, and culinary garden, together with a network of community-minded suppliers, this is destination dining at its earthy best. Splash out at Arum Restaurant, enjoy a casual meal at the Deli Restaurant or grab some picnic goodies from The Farm Shop. See boschendal.com

Soak up Franschhoek’s art scene

Find food, art and crafts at Franschhoek Village Market.Getty Images

Sure, you could survive on the valley’s epicurean pleasures alone, but art adds a richness that goes well beyond the glass. From the AITY Gallery on Huguenot Street, wander the main strip for an eclectic mix of art, jewellery and design stores. The Gallery at Grande Provence wine estate is a space dedicated to works by leading local artists. Download the Franschhoek Art Route for a self-guided journey through fourteen unique experiences. See franschoek.org.za

Savour the landscape

Bartinney Wine Estate, on the slopes of the Botmaskop Mountains.

Resist the urge to bounce from one cellar door to another. Rather, choose a few and end your day at a scenic viewpoint. Positioned on the slopes of the Botmaskop Mountains, Bartinney Wine Estate (on the navy tram line, but technically in Stellenbosch) is one of the most dramatic places to raise a glass. But wherever you lay your picnic rug, the nightly show of the sun setting across the vines is not to be missed. See bartinney.co.za

The writer toured the Franschhoek wine valley as part of Inspiring Vacations’ 10-day “Highlights of South Africa” premium small group tour. From $4595 a person, twin share. See inspiringvacations.com

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Kerry van der Jagt is a Sydney-based freelance writer with expertise in Australia's Indigenous cultures, sustainable travel and wildlife conservation, and a descendant of the Awabakal people of the mid-north coast of NSW.