Franschhoek

Franschhoek at a glance

Aptly described as the Valley of Dreams, Franschhoek is known for its rolling hills, mountain vistas, wineries and seemingly endless scenic panoramas. The area’s name is steeped in history and linked to its French heritage. More than 300 years ago, French Huguenot refugees arrived in the area and they brought with them the renowned French wine and food culture that gives Franschhoek its character today. It is thanks to these French settlers that the area boasts its infinitely Instagrammable vistas of vineyard-covered mountains. The lifestyle in the Village, as Franschhoek is colloquially known, is second to none, offering the very best of relaxation opportunities, viticulture and breathtaking views.

Getting to know Franschhoek better

The French Corner of the Cape, as Franschhoek is known, is located about 45 minutes from Cape Town and boasts a unique charm that stems from its architecture and culture. Franschhoek owes its French culture to a decree issued by King Louis XIV of France in 1685, which banned Protestantism in France. As a result of this ban, hundreds of people were forced to leave France and in 1688, almost 300 French Huguenots arrived by ship at the Cape of Good Hope. They were given land by the Dutch in an area that was then a seasonal breeding ground for elephants – the area that we know and love as Franschhoek today.

Life in Franschhoek is the best of both worlds: a peaceful village way of life and relative proximity to the City of Cape Town and Cape Town International Airport. In typical traffic, it will take just under an hour to get from your front door in Franschhoek to the airport.

Franschhoek residents get to make the most of beautiful days and long evenings in the summer months when the mercury typically rises into the high 20s or low 30s. An average winter’s day brings temperatures in the high teens or low 20s.

From a real estate perspective, Franschhoek offers a great opportunity for the discerning investor. Various new lifestyle estates offer a luxurious way of life and an enviable address.

Schools, medical facilities and shopping centres

Franschhoek is home to Bridge House School, which is an independent school catering for children of all ages, right from preschool to matric. Franschhoek High School is another excellent school in the area, boasting a strong sports programme.
When it comes to your medical needs, you’ll find an array of healthcare providers including general practitioners, audiologists, dentists and physiotherapists. If you’re not feeling well and need to see a doctor, Franschhoek Healthcare Centre is a great place to call.

In 2022, Checkers opened its first new-format Checkers Foods supermarket in Franschhoek’s Huguenot Street, boasting exclusive brands, free-range meat and a bakery with artisan breads, as well as a Starbucks. You’ll find a Woolworths almost right next door to Checkers to round off your shopping experience. And of course, if you’re looking for wine, an artisanal gift or a special piece of objet d’art for your home, you’ll find a wide array of places to shop close to home in Franschhoek.

Restaurants, special attractions and things to do

There are so many fun things to see, spectacular places to eat and unique experiences to enjoy in Franschhoek. A great way to explore the viticulture of the area is to step on board the Franschhoek Wine Tram, which will take you on a journey through the rolling vineyards, stopping at some of South Africa’s oldest and most distinguished wine estates.

Franschhoek has become known as the Wine and Gourmet Capital of South Africa, and in the town’s more than 40 restaurants, you’ll find talented chefs and something to tantalise every taste bud. To name just a few, Franschhoek’s top restaurants include Chefs Warehouse Maison, La Cotte Farm Restaurant and La Petite Colombe. You can also explore and sample the wares at an array of wine estates, including – among various others – Eikehof Wines, Lynx Wine Estate and Boschendal Estate.

Food and wine are far from the only things to experience in Franschhoek. You can go for a hike and enjoy the great outdoors at Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve or marvel at the natural beauty of the Franschhoek Pass. You can get a taste of the area’s history at the Huguenot Memorial Museum or indulge at Huguenot Fine Chocolates. Car enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to the Franschhoek Motor Museum, while others may enjoy a visit to the First South African Perfume Museum.

If you’re interested in calling Franschhoek home, speak to the Jawitz Properties team today. Let our local experts guide you and your family to your ideal home in South Africa’s prime wine country.