There’s been colonial settlement here since the latter half of the 17th century, when the Dutch first founded Stellenbosch and the French Huguenots settled in Franschhoek. Both towns pride themselves on their innovative young chefs, many based at wine estates, and the region has become the mainspring of South African cuisine.
Along with Paarl, these towns make up the core of the Winelands, but there are many more wine-producing places to explore. Pretty Tulbagh, with its many historical buildings, is known for MCC (Méthode Cap Classique – the local version of Champagne), and Robertson's scattered wineries often offer free tastings.
It is possible to explore the core Winelands towns on day trips from Cape Town. Stellenbosch and Paarl are accessible by train, while Franschhoek is the easiest to get around if you don’t have a car. But to do justice to the region and to visit the many wineries (around 400 at last count), you’ll need to stay over and get yourself some wheels – a bicycle will do, if you’re not too ambitious, but if you plan to pack in a lot of wineries, a car is essential.
If you’re going to swallow rather than spit, an organised tour of the wineries might be a good idea.
Robertson, McGregor, Tulbagh and Greyton are all within a two-hour drive of Cape Town, so while you could drive there and back in a day, it makes more sense to experience some small-town dining and seek out the well-priced accommodation on offer in the more off-beat wine regions.
Franschhoek
French Huguenots settled in this spectacular valley over 300 years ago, bringing their vines with them. Ever since, the town has clung to its French roots, and July visitors will find Bastille Day celebrated with boules matches, berets and brie. Franschhoek bills itself as the country’s gastronomic capital, and you’ll certainly have a tough time deciding where to eat. Plus, with a clutch of art galleries, wine farms and stylish guesthouses thrown in, it really is one of the loveliest towns in the Cape.
Lavender Farm Guest House
Situated along the garden route, only 2 km from Franschhoek, Lavender Farm Guest House is nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains. Guests can relax on a sun lounger, poolside, under an umbrella.
The rooms feature individual décor with a different colour scheme. They are equipped with flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. Each opens out onto a private terrace.
A fresh breakfast is served daily in the breakfast room with French doors. In summer guests can enjoy a glass of local wine in the garden while enjoying the view. A variety of restaurants are within a 5-minute drive.
Staff at Lavender Farm Guest House can help organise spa treatments, horse riding excursions or wine tastings in Franshhoek.
