With a name meaning French Corner, this village is integral to South Africa’s wine lands. Located in the Western Cape Province, it’s incredibly beautiful, as well as being what is arguably the land’s top spot for food and drink. It’s one of the country’s oldest settlements too, with heritage sights and impressive historic buildings. Wine tasting is a prime activity, closely followed by fishing and hiking the surrounding mountains. Or you can just stay close to your luxury hotel, soak up the sun, swim in the pool and enjoy impeccable service. Here are the finest places to stay when visiting Franschhoek.
La Residence Franschhoek
Set on 30 acres of private land, this five-star hotel is flanked by majestic mountains, with a backdrop of Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz vineyards, olive groves and plum orchards. The main building houses 11 suites designed for couples, while five further suites for families and groups are accommodated on the grounds. Each has been individually styled by Liz Biden, incorporating grand mirrors, chandeliers hung from beamed ceilings, exotic antiques and velvet and silk textiles. Meals are also lavish at La Residence, and are either formally served in the Great Hall or alfresco at the Persian Alley. The hotel has an award-winning spa too.
Le Quartier Francais
As the name would suggest, this boutique establishment has strong French connections, as seen in the classic, fresh approach to the rooms’ decor. Its restaurant, Protégé, offers an on-trend dining experience, with small plates calling on Asian, French and Italian influences. Diners can watch the chefs at work via the interior’s central show kitchen, or take advantage of the balmy South African evenings with a meal on the terrace. Guests can also enjoy a meal at the intimate Épice. Leeu Spa by Healing Earth provides wellness treatments using local natural resources, such as the Pinotage grape, which contains many therapeutic properties.
Leeu House
Leeu House is a sister hotel to Le Quartier Francais, benefiting from access to the same holistic wellness sanctuary and gym. It’s set in the village centre and has its own relaxed restaurant, The Conservatory – a light-filled, glass-ceilinged construction, with an additional alfresco terrace for mealtimes and drinks. The building looks and feels much like a contemporary country retreat, with a quaint white frontage, a roaring fire in the bar lounge, a convivial pool area and individually styled carpeted bedrooms in natural hues. It has just 12 bedrooms, ensuring a boutique, five-star experience.
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