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General Informtion
More than three centuries ago about 200 French Huguenots, having escaped religious persecution, settled in the Berg River Valley and founded the community of Franschhoek.
With its fine balmy summers and the majority of its rainfall in winter, the French Huguenots recognised the potential of the region for wine production and fruit growing. |
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Wine and Other Routes
The French established vast wine estates throughout the valley. Today you will not only find many of these estates but also numerous small family vineyards. These vineyards form part of the Vignerons de Franschhoek which was formed to promote the valley and its wines. The wine route is open for tastings and cellar tours.
Attractions and Other Places of Interest
At the foot of the pass you will find the Huguenot Memorial and Museum which commemorate the arrival of the Huguenots in 1688. The museum serves as an information and research centre on the Huguenots and their descendants. The Jan Joubert's Gat bridge is one of the oldest bridges in South Africa still in use and is in the Franschhoek pass. The Dutch Reformed Church is a National Monument and is open to the public on request.
Arts and Crafts
Not only did the French bring their viticulture, they also left behind a rich heritage of arts, architecture and hospitality, all of which survives to this day. The main street is lined with galleries displaying local arts, craft shops and antique shops.
Accommodation and Conference Facilities
Accommodation is of a high standard with personal service to cater for every need. A variety of packages are available, ranging from self catering cottages, through bed and breakfast guesthouses, to one of the most popular country hotels in South Africa. Conference facilities are also available.
Walks and Trails
Being almost surrounded by mountains there are some breathtaking scenic hikes in the nature reserve, Mont Rochelle. Permits are available from the municipality, museum and the information office.
The Boland Hiking Trail is a two or three day hike and permits are obtainable from Jonkershoek.
Restaurants
Franschhoek is often referred to as "the gourmet capital of the Cape" and this title is justly deserved as it has some of the finest restaurants in the country. With meals ranging from French cuisine, to typical Cape cooking, to simple country fare, there is a menu for every taste and for every pocket.
Linked Interest Between Towns
Situated 83km from Cape Town, along the N1, in less than an hour one can be in Franschhoek. This makes it perfect for a day trip and its proximity to Stellenbosch, 30km; Paarl 30km; Wellington 45km and 45km to Somerset West makes it ideal to explore the Winelands.
Franschhoek Info: 876-3603
876-2768 (faks)
info@franschhoek.org.za
www.franschhoek.org.za
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