A LITTLE FRENCH CORNER IN THE CAPE

Franschhoek is nestled between towering mountains in the Cape Winelands, about an hour's drive from Cape Town.   More than 300 years ago the Huguenots settled here, obviously seeing its value as the perfect place for vineyards and with good wine there naturally follows fine food. Some of the finest restaurants in the country are established here and the food is always fresh, tasty and with a local flavor.   There are some 40 wine farms in and around Franschhoek most of which also serve meals or snacks - go on a tour by yourself or get someone to drive you (recommended)  or of course take the Wine Tram.

Early morning view from our in-town bed and breakfast

We stayed at Le Petit Paris - a relatively new establishment, reasonably priced and with hosts who are attentive without getting in your way.  Our room was lovely in a Heritage House which has been completely renovated by a couple who clearly pay attention to detail.

The house is a stone's throw from the Huguenot Memorial Museum which is well worth a visit. The manicured gardens are magnificent - roses being the flower of the day in Franschhoek, the cooler climate suiting this very English flower.

The Gardens of the Huguenot Memorial Museum

King Protea 

The museum building

On Saturday mornings there is a market in the gardens of the Town Hall, where vendors sell all manner of hand made artifacts, and, yes of course, food!  We had a good look around and bought a couple of things.   Flying in and out restricts one rather - we had our eyes on some huge paintings.

After the market, we took a drive out over the Franschhoek Pass all the way to Theewaterskloof Dam stopping along the way to take in the views over the valley.  We tried to ignore the baboons and it worked as they ignored us right back.   Lunch was at La Petite Ferme Winery which is on the Pass just outside Franschhoek.  Talk about lunch with a view! 

Dinner at Delaire Graff Estate (taxi essential) served exquisite tasting, lovely looking food, fine dining at its best.  I did take photos of all the food but alas am not well trained with a cellphone camera!  Maybe the wine had something to do with the blurred results.  However, before dinner we sat on the terrace and enjoyed the views over the valley - also taken with a cellphone so I suppose it was the wine after all. 

Due to the short nature of our stay, we didn't get to do the Motor Museum, or the Wine Tram,  but will be making a concerted effort to include them next time.   When Cape Town becomes too hectic (and it can be a very busy city) Franschhoek is the perfect place to stay.