WeCreativez WhatsApp Support
Our reservations team is here to answer your questions. Ask us anything!
Hi, how can I help?
Hi, how can we help?
CAPE TOWN'S FINEST VILLA EXPERIENCES

Franschhoek Area Guide

 

Located in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Franschhoek (meaning French Corner) was settled by French Huguenots in the late 1600s, whose culinary and viticultural traditions still define the valley’s unique character today.

Just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town, Franschhoek feels worlds away – peaceful, picturesque, and deeply rooted in hospitality. Explore oak-lined streets, browse art galleries, and indulge in long lunches at some of South Africa’s best restaurants and wine farms.

This curated guide brings together our favourite local essentials, dining experiences, and hidden gems to help you settle in and enjoy the very best of your stay.

 

Orientation & Getting Around

Franschhoek is compact and walkable, with most shops, cafés, and restaurants located along Huguenot Street and its side roads.

Getting Around:

  • Walking: The village is safe and pleasant to explore on foot.
  • Driving/Uber: Franschhoek and its surroundings are best explored in your hire car. If you are without one, however, Uber works fairly well in Franschhoek. We can also recommend a local taxi firm if preferred.
  • Franschhoek Wine Tram: A delightful and scenic hop-on-hop-off tram that connects many top wine estates – ideal for carefree tasting days.
    Book online: winetram.co.za
  • Private Drivers & Tours:We are partnered with LTC Luxury Travel & Adventures (PTY) Ltd who offer full day itineraries, airport transfers, or local tours.
    Caleb: +27 79 444 9481 | ltctravelandtours@gmail.com

 

Everyday Essentials

Food & Provisions

Woolworths
Your go-to for premium groceries, fresh produce, and ready-made meals – perfect for your villa’s kitchen. It’s located on the main High Street with street parking in front or in the larger car park at the back of the store.

19 Huguenot St | 021 876 8930 | Daily, 8am–7pm

Boschendal Farm Shop

The Farm & Butchery Shop celebrates the best of Boschendal’s fresh seasonal produce, grown and baked right on the farm or sourced from like-minded local suppliers. There is also a lovely homeware shop and two restaurants for lunch or dinner.

Boschendal Wine Estate, Main Werf Area Boschendal Farm Pniel St | 021 870 4281 | Daily, 8am–7pm

Babylonstoren Farm Shop
This iconic farm estate offers estate-grown produce, artisanal food, and beautiful homeware. Babylonstoren is very popular and as such can be very busy so allow plenty of time to explore and enjoy.

Babylonstoren Rd | 021 300 3919 | Daily, 9am–5pm

Huguenot Fine Chocolates
Belgian-style handmade chocolates made right in the village – a local favourite for gifts and treats.

1 Daniel Hugo St | 021 876 4096

 

Wine & Spirits

There are plenty of wine farms in the area, and wine can be purchased directly from those in the area. However, if you are looking for a more convenient way to buy a variety of wines or spirits when you arrive in Fraschhoek, you can find a good selection in Woolworths, Pick n Pay or Checkers (all supermarkets on the high street with a good alcohol section).

 

Wine Tram Tastings

An easy and enjoyable way to visit top estates without driving. Choose your line and let the tram guide your day.
Tickets: winetram.co.za

 

Wine Estates

Whether you prefer historic charm, modern architecture, or mountain vistas, there’s an estate for every taste.

  • La Motte: Elegant wines, a serene tasting terrace, an art gallery, and fine dining.
  • Haute Cabrière: Famous for its Chardonnay-Pinot Noir and stunning valley views.
  • Boschendal: Family-friendly with picnics, farm produce, and a weekend market.
  • Babylonstoren: A destination in itself with a spa, shops, gardens and wine tasting.
  • Leeu Estates: Sophisticated wine tasting with sculpture gardens and Michelin-level dining at La Petite Colombe.
  • Rickety Bridge: Relaxed tastings with a heritage feel, ideal for groups.
  • Chamonix: Known for organic, old-vine wines and its rugged mountain setting.

Tip: Many estates require bookings – our concierge team can arrange tastings, transfers, or private tours.

 

Markets

  • Franschhoek Village Market: Every Saturday under the oaks in the village centre. Local crafts, farm produce, and pastries. 9am-3pm.
  • Boschendal Friday Night Market: Good food, award-winning wine, live music under the stars, and various activities for children. Fridays from 3rd October 2025 and lasting through the Summer months – check online for any schedule changes. 6pm-9pm.

 

Boutiques & Local Shopping

Franschhoek’s main road has many lovely boutique shops.

Shopping:

  • Masquerade: Timeless homeware and candles.
  • Indian Summer: Chic resort wear and accessories.
  • Peacock Blue: Great for menswear.
  • Smitten Collective: Lifestyle design, gifts, and a delightful café.
  • Ebony/Curated: High-end African art and design.

 

Art & Culture

  • Everard Read Gallery: Contemporary South African art and sculpture garden.
  • La Motte Museum: Heritage, art, and wine.
  • Is Art Gallery: Curated selection of emerging and established local talent.
  • Huguenot Museum: A cultural treasure in the heart of Franschhoek that offers a comprehensive history of the arrival, lives and legacy of the Huguenots.

 

Coffee & Casual Dining

 

Restaurants

Signature Experiences

  • JAN Franschhoek: Michelin-starred seasonal pop-up at La Motte.
  • La Petite Colombe: Exquisite tasting menus at Leeu Estates.
  • Épice: French-Indian finesse with flavour-driven tasting menus.
  • Eleven: Minimalist design and elegant seasonal cuisine.
  • Protégé: Vibrant and approachable fine dining.

 

Elegant & Relaxed

 

Casual & Family-Friendly

  • La Cotte Farm Restaurant: Casual breakfast or lunch with a relaxed menu. Can be open for dinner on certain evenings (check online). Take a walk through their beautiful garden.
  • French Connection Bistro: Bistro style, relaxed atmosphere on the high street. Summer seating outdoors and cosy indoor seating for winter.
  • Reubens: Franschhoek institution serving modern South African cuisine.
  • The Franschhoek Beer Co.: Craft beer tasting and gourmet burgers.

After dinner: The Elephant and Barrel is a popular village pub.

 

Wellness & Relaxation

Enjoy beautiful spa experiences as you unwind amongst vineyards and mountain air.

 

Outdoors & Experiences

Franschhoek is ideal for those who love nature and adventure.

Hiking & Nature Walks

 

Cycling & E-Bikes

Explore vineyards by e-bike or mountain bike – a scenic and active way to discover the area.
Contact Cape Concierge to arrange guided or self-guided tours.

 

Horseback Wine Tours

Ride through vineyards and enjoy tastings along the way – suitable for beginners.
Paradise Stables: 068 088 9136

 

Family-Friendly Activities

  • Boschendal Tree House & Picnics
  • Franschhoek Motor Museum (Leeu Estates) – over 200 vintage cars in pristine condition.
  • Huguenot Monument & Gardens – easy walk and local history.
  • Butterfly World (near Paarl) – a fun half-day trip with younger kids.

 

Practical Information

Pharmacies & Medical

 

Emergency Contacts

  • All Emergencies (mobile): 112
  • Ambulance: 10177
  • Franschhoek Police: 021 876 8061

 

Local Tips from Cape Concierge

  • Wine Tram tip: Book the early departure to enjoy a full day with fewer crowds.
  • Picnics: Many estates offer picnic hampers – we can reserve these in advance.
  • Spa day: Midweek appointments are quieter and easier to book.
  • Hiking tip: Mornings are cooler for trails so start early and bring a hat (and suncream), sufficient water and a snack.

 

We hope you fall in love with Franschhoek as much as we have.

For reservations, private experiences, or in-villa arrangements (chefs, spa treatments, transport), our Cape Concierge team is always happy to assist. 

Cape Concierge Office Contact: +27 (0)797827268 | zaanley@capeconcierge.co.za