Top 5 things to do in Franschhoek, South Africa
2. Wine tasting on horseback
Franschhoek is famous for its Bordeaux-inspired wine farms, and what better way to experience the farms than on horseback? Available for all levels from beginner to advanced, several passionate equestrians in the village can guide a walk along less trodden mountain paths to a curated list of wine farms. If you are nervous about ‘drinking and riding,’ a lift can be arranged back home – or you can just ask the horse to walk a bit slower.
3. Spend an afternoon at Boschendal Farm
Boschendal has become a haven of activity with an incredibly tasteful re-brand and re-design a few years ago. The farm has a colloquial charm, and houses several dining options as well as some pretty cool activities. You can ride a horse through the farm or go on a carriage ride. Go mountain biking in the mountains above the farm, and end with a picnic under the oak trees or a 5-star meal at The Werf.
4. Wine tasting at Chamonix Wine Farm
Franschhoek has many wine farms, but the consensus amongst wine makers is that Chamonix is by far the best of the lot. Their wines are incredibly complex yet smooth, and the tasting is done in an old fashioned cellar type room. On a warm summer day, go outside and listen to the gurgling sound of the adjacent stream while sipping the best wines in the valley!
5. Enjoy a dinner at Foliage
In the five star dining world, the concept of ‘rewilding’ is rare indeed. The delicious exception to this rule is Foliage. Chef Chris Erasmus is the multiple award winning chef who responsible for the groundbreaking foraging concept which informs a delightful menu in which everything is ‘wild.’ Book in advance to avoid the disappointing possibility of missing the opportunity to dine on wild things.
That sums up the highlighted travel experiences of Franschhoek in the Western Cape Winelands. Feel free to let us know in the comments below whether you would like any more ‘locals’ tips on enjoying the best of this delightful winelands village.
Willow Constantine is the Founder of Bespoke Safari Co. Bespoke Safari Co. is a boutique travel agency offering cutting edge curated travel experiences in Africa.
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Willow Constantine
Willow Constantine is the founder and director of Bespoke Safari Co., a travel agency specializing in curated African experiences. Bespoke Safari Co. designs itineraries as a synergy of craft and travel, including private villa retreats in which clients escape the din of daily life to enjoy slow travel while observing wildlife in its natural habitat. As part of the Bespoke Safari Co. family, clients enjoy the privilege of travelling like a local. Whether exploring the hidden corners of Cape Town, camping with primates in Mahale, or quietly tracking leopard through the kopjes of Southern Tanzania, a Bespoke Safari experience will remain etched in one’s memory forever – we only curate the most unforgettable travel experiences. Willow researches each destination thoroughly for recent weather patterns, discovering any changes to wildlife migration and behavior. She also personally visits each lodge and villa she recommends, ensuring lodges are delivering only the best – at every price level.
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What a dream combo! Horse-riding and wine-tasting are two of my favourite activities.
Ellen, it sounds like Franschhoek could be an ideal destination for you. The horsess take you along the foothills and rolling vineyards of the mountains, so you really get a strong sense of the terroir. I hope you can come visit one day!
I’m a big fan of the idea of foraging. It makes the chefs look out for what’s seasonal and really reduces the number of food miles on your plate.
It’s almost slow food as the chef sees what he or she has got to work with then they have the time to adapt and create their menu accordingly. I like to think that it prompts creativity too. I’d love to have a meal at Foliage.
I agree wholeheartedly, Bob! If we can eat meals that make a minimal footprint ecologically, and which are grown wild and natural we are truly supporting the health and balance of the ecosystem and our bodies as well. Foliage has won several awards for harnessing principles of re-wilding and it’s a huge privilege to have a dining experience there!
Going out and foraging for our food may seem like a tiny individual action. Some people would say that you are not going to save the planet by picking a mushroom but I would disagree. That small focus on the details changes our mindset we are thinking about the future of that planet and we have taken a decision to act in an environmentally responsible way.
Moya, this is very insightful and absolutely true. The more we can engage with the planet in the smallest possible way, the more connected we are to the land that sustains us, the more driven we are to protect it. Thank you for your wisdom.
Some of my friends love South Africa and often go back every 3 or 4 years. They love the country but they often do the same things time and time again. Usually they do a tour something like Cape Town, Garden Route and a safari. I get the feeling that Franschhoek could encourage them to break the pattern and try something new especially for those of them who love their wine. It sounds like a really welcoming small town with loads going on.
Julia, I feel exactly the same way! There are INCREDIBLE off the beaten path destinations in South Africa which would really transform the way you see this diverse and wildly beautiful nation. Some of my favourites are – Paternoster, Churchhaven, Cintsa, and St Lucia Wetlands. Please feel free to reach out if you want further ideas about how to have a truly unforgettable experience of South Africa!
Gosh there is so much more to do in our gorgeous village. Hiking in our stunning mountains is a must for a start! Visiting wine farms by mountain bike is also very popular. Join a walking history or cultural tour. Have a picnic next to the river. Dance the night away at the local pubs over weekends. Check out the Huguenot, Perfume and Motors Museums. Eat delicious Belgian Waffles at Anni’s. Browse the more than 20 art galleries in the main road and wine farms. Sip bubbly and quaff some oysters at a selection of establishments. Enjoy the awesome Saturday Village Market and meet the locals. The list is endless. Our little village has so much to offer.
Thank you so much for sharing all these amazing additional highlights of Franschhoek. It was really difficult to choose just a few that I even had to leave out the iconic Wine Tram – please feel free to continue offering suggestions as our readers love local knowledge!
Oh wow, this sounds incredible. I didn’t have time to visit Franschhoek while I was in South Africa, but I’d love to go back. Your photos are great!
Please let us know if you come back, South Africa has SO much to offer!