Imagine endless beach views, fresh air and inspiration on tap in nature's playground, yours to explore. The Atlantic Ocean sparkles at your feet, inviting you to linger longer, and savour the extraordinary. The incredible seascapes captivate your imagination as swim, surf, SUP, or stroll along the shore, a shimmering white beach. All six elegantly appointed sea-facing rooms in our beachfront boutique hotel embrace the restful, marine-inspired décor. Relax on your balcony, perfectly chilled drink in hand, and drift off to the hypnotic sounds of life at the beach. Above all its virtues, Last Word Long Beach's most remarkable feature belongs to our lovely team.
From the comfort of each spacious room, enjoy endless views of the Atlantic Ocean ahead and the Chapman's Peak mountains beyond. Our elegant, spacious Superior Rooms, Elegant Suites and singular Junior Suite provide our guests with the perfect destination for a romantic escapade, fresh-air family bonding or surfing safari with friends. Special occasions invite run-of-house bookings for a sublime experience of this shoreline paradise belonging only to you. Each gorgeous, luxury guest room, replete with en-suite bathroom, locally inspired botanical amenities, flatscreen TV, mini-bar, hairdryer, ample wardrobe space, personal safe and private balcony invites repose.
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balcony view over Long Beach
downstairs bedroom
downstairs garden and loungers
lounge and bar drinks with an ocean view in the lounge
Dinner on the balcony
The downstairs patio area
Breakfast
Upstairs balcony
balcony decor
lounge bar
lounge and bar
dining room counter
in room gin station
lounge
pool
downstairs patio
room details
room details
elegant suite balcony
junior suite
elegant suite
junior suite
pool pillows
lounge and bar
There are two upstairs Elegant Suites that include a separate lounge area, a mini bar, room snacks, a private ocean facing balcony and a separate bath, shower and toilet. These suites are 70m² in size.
There is only one downstairs Junior Suite that is 90m² in size. This suite has a separate lounge area, complimentary room snacks, a mini bar and a separate shower, bath and toilet.
There are three Superior Double rooms downstairs that are 36-50m² in size. They each have a private patio, complimentary mini bar snacks, room snacks and a separate shower, bath and toilet.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Eco Friendly, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Library, Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Underfloor Heating, Verandah
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Chauffer Service, Credit Card, Room Service
Schoone Oordt Country House is a top small hotel in Swellendam South Africa, possibly the best of Swellendam accommodation and perfectly situated as the gateway to the Garden Route, only 2.5 hours from Cape Town. With 11 luxury bedrooms set in lush gardens, an intimate Conservatory Restaurant, a sparkling saltwater pool and a passion for people, family, food, wine and the environment, our charming country hotel offers romantic and intimate as well as family friendly accommodation in Swellendam. The emphasis here is on unpretentious unaffected luxury, elegance, quality, love and obsessive attention to detail. We aspire to make this evident in every aspect of your time with us. We do hope that you feel as though you’re visiting with the best of friends.
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Restaurants
Schoone Oordt Country Hotel - iconic pictureCredit: Bruce 'Flyinghorse' GeilsSchoone Oordt Country House is a charming country hotel in Swellendam South Africa, possibly the best of Swellendam accommodation, with 11 luxury bedrooms set in lush gardens, an intimate Conservatory restaurant, a sparkling saltwater pool and a passion for people, family, food, wine and the environment. The emphasis here is on unpretentious, unaffected luxury, elegance, quality and obsessive attention to detail.
Schoone Oordt Small Hotel SwellendamCredit: Gareth van NelsonA slightly different view for a change.
Schoone Oordt Small Hotel SwellendamA brighter angle of the Manor House.
The Lobby in the Manor HouseCredit: Bruce 'Flyinghorse' GeilsKeeping with the Victorian feel, an antique roll top desk, couch, yellowwood coffee table and a family picture commissioned from Alida diTekenar, a local Swellendam artist.
The Conservatory at Schoone Oordt Country HouseCredit: Bruce 'Flyinghorse' GeilsGorgeously sunny room for breakfasts
The Conservatory at Schoone OordtAt dusk.
The Conservatory at Schoone Oordt | InteriorCredit: Bruce 'Flyinghorse' GeilsLight and airy and set for dinner.
The Conservatory at Schoone Oordt Country HotelCredit: Wander BesterCosy and Romantic in the evenings.
Schoone Oordt Country Hotel Delicious Gourmet Breakfast at Schoone Oordt Country Hotel
White Chocolate & StrawberriesCredit: Elana van ZylPliable White Chocolate, Strawberry Textures, Shortbread
Interesting Knick Knacks and Antique PiecesCredit: Bruce 'Flyinghorse' GeilsAntique gas bottles behind the Bar
Complimentary Afternoon TeaCredit: Bruce 'Flyinghorse' GeilsAlways something sweet, something savoury, fresh fruit, homemade iced tea and homemade lemonade, along with a selection of coffees and teas served from the Bar in the afternoon.
Cozy Bar & Lounge Area with Fireplace Credit: Bruce 'Flyinghorse' GeilsWhere complimentary afternoon tea is served during check ins and for relaxing, reading a book next to the fire during those colder winter months.
Schoone Oordt Wine CellarWe have very specific about supporting local and all of our wines come from the Overberg area.
Room - Schoone Oordt Country House
Luxury Room - Schoone Oordt Country Hotel Luxury Room Bathroom
Honeymoon Suite - Schoone Oordt Honeymoon Suite
Honeymoon Suite - Schoone Oordt Bathroom Honeymoon Suite
Luxury Room GardensCredit: Bruce 'Flyinghorse' GeilsLuxury Rooms are set separate from the Manor House in a Courtyard with tinkling fountains and lush gardens
Refreshing (not heated) Saltwater PoolCredit: Bruce 'Flyinghorse' GeilsGorgeously private pool area for relaxing and refreshing. Note that the pool is not heated.
Salt Water PoolCredit: Bruce 'Flyinghorse' GeilsView through the gorgeous ferns and water plants towards the pool.
The eight Luxury Rooms are all separate from the Manor House with their own private entrances and patios. They are positioned around fragrant rose gardens, peaceful tinkling fountains and wild landscaped shrubbery. There is a single sofa bed, ideal for a child of up to 10yrs of age and space for a cot (pre-booked) in each room.
The Honeymoon Suite is unashamedly romantic and private with its large hearth, exquisitely carved four-poster bed and oversized bathroom. It is tucked away on the edge of a shady forest with the Koornlands River gurgling along at its perimeter.
The Family Cottage is at the top end of the property, private, cosy and set apart from other guests. It has 2 extended length single beds in an upstairs loft area accessible by stairs and an extended length king bed for parents downstairs. This room is perfect for families with children aged between 3 and 13. Under 3, the steps may be difficult and over 13... teenagers like more privacy. Note, that we don't hold to this age range. It is ultimately our guests' choice.
The Family Suite is a spacious two-bedroom suite that sleeps two adults in an over-sized king bed and up to four children in beautiful sturdy bunk beds, with even enough room for a cot (pre-booked). It has a private patio area overlooking the circular lawn and pool area. This room is perfect for families of any age.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Eco Friendly, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Library, Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Underfloor Heating, Verandah
The landmark of Swellengrebel Street in Swellendam, better known as Swellendam's 'Historical Mile', the Drostdy Museum has been voted the best museum in South Africa and has become a landmark of South African heritage. Originally built in 1747 as headquarters for the town's magistrate after which various other outbuildings, a jail and a mill was added spanning over multiple hectare throughout the town all within walking distance from Schoone Oordt.
The creative colaboration between owners of the Bukkenburg Pottery Studio and Gallery, David Schlapobersky and Felicity Potter, started in 1973 and lead them to Swellendam in 1996 when they opened the studio. Bukkenburg Pottery Studio and Gallery is situated in Swellengrebel Street, a short stroll down the street from Schoone Oordt.
A superb family activity with plenty to do for the children and great coffee, meals and confectionery for every member of the family to enjoy. The nursery grows and stocks succulents, aloes and other rare plants.
Swellendam's 'berried' treasure - Wildebraam is a berry farm nestled in the Hermitage Valley just 2km outside town. The farm offers tastings of their unique liquers, syrups and other berry products farmed and manufactured on the estate. In berry season (November to December) the estate also offers berry picking - a wonderful family activity which you can end off with milkshakes, coffee and a light meal at the estate's coffee shop.
Now an international brand, Rain is one of Swellendam's proudest exports with products made by hand, from natural ingredients all with an African origin. If you're looking to relax and recuperate Rain's Forest Day Spa sure is the place to go (booking is essential).
Situated on the banks of the Breede River the Bontebok National Park is just a 5km drive outside Swellendam. With a variety of wild life and birds a trip to the park will ensure excitement for young and old - pack a picnic basket (available from Schoone Oordt per request), drive all the way to the river bank and take in all the goodness of the great outdoors.
Founded in Swellendam Rain Africa has become one of the town's proudest exports not only for it's international expansion but also for the ethical values and uplifting influence on the people of our town. Treat yourself with their luxurious bath and body products all made by hand from 100% natural ingredients of African origin.
A very unique activity that will elate everybody's inner child
Swellendam's 9 hole, par 72 golf course is open to visitors every day of the week. With low fees and the most beautiful setting Swellendam's golf course is a great activity for every golf lover, pro or amateur.
De Hoop Nature Reserve is a 50km drive from Swellendam where the Potberg Mountains meet the shore. The reserve makes the perfect location for a day-trip and has its own restaurant that is open daily. Activities at De Hoop Nature reserve are endless - you can hike through Fynbos plains, go mountain biking along the gravel backroads, laze on the beach or take a game drive through this scenic reserve.
Marloth Nature Reserve is named after the pioneer botanist who, together with a deputation of Swellendam residents, petitioned the Minister of Lands and Forestry in 1928 to set aside part of the mountain as a nature reserve. During 1981, the reserve was enlarged to include the rest of the State Forest and the Swellendam hiking trail was opened.
The reserve’s vegetation is predominantly mountain fynbos, with patches of forest. There are several species of Protea and more than 25 species of erica, most of which flower in November. Marloth, like the rest of the southern Cape, has hot summers and cold winters. The higher mountain peaks are occasionally dusted in snow during the cold winter months.
As riding horses is not natural to the horse, we strive to keep our approach as pleasant and ethical as possible. We strive for “Harmonious Horse-Human Handling” (Debra-Leigh Mohle)
Our training techniques are based on evidence based scientific research and the horse’s welfare and also the horse and the rider’s safety are paramount at all levels of interaction.
A lot of our techniques and principles of training come from the work of Dr Andrew Mclean and the work of the international Society of Equitation Science. These techniques are firmly rooted in learning theory. Amy also spent some time training in Classical Dressage in Spain.
We take into consideration how the animal lives, behaves, how it learns and how it socializes in order to develop an uncomplicated “language” or “method” of communication between horse and rider. This allows us to safely and pleasantly influence the horse to do all the strange things we as humans require them to do.
Diesel & Crème is a Vintage Diner & Motel (The Karoo Moon Motel, House & Cottage) situated on the scenic Route 62 in Barrydale.
This place is crammed full of memorabilia which is famous for it's milkshakes in enticingly different combos. There's more, a large breakfast and lunch menu, they make a mean variety of burgers, but prepared to queue, such it's fame. Caution, it closes at 5pm.
David and Rita Trafford discovered the future Sijnn land while on holiday in Malgas in 2000. The soil and landscape reminded them of Portugal and they were immediately intrigued. A purchase agreement and more than 200 soil profiles later, approximately ten hectares of vines were planted and the name Sijnn Wines was appropriated to the venture – fittingly so as the word 'sijnn' is derived from the Khoisan word meaning riverbank. Today Sijnn Wines has become well known for our interesting and bold choices of cultivars and award-winning blends.
Open every Saturday 10:00 – 15:00 or by appointment during the week.
Sixty-one years ago, Schalk-Willem Joubert left Wellington for the fertile Tradouw Valley to farm mainly with fruit and wine grapes. His son, Jacobus Joubert, Meyer’s father, realised the potential of growing premium grape cultivars for the production of wine. They delivered Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon to the Co-operative Cellar in Barrydale, Cabernet Franc was planted on the farm in 1982. The fermentation cellar was built in 1998 out of stone from the rocky soils, characteristic of the farm. In 1999, the first grapes were harvested and crushed for the production of wine. The R62 Merlot/Cabernet Blend (60:40) was released after a 14-month ageing period in Burgundy oak barrels. The production is currently just below 3000 cases per year.
Peace, tranquility, adventure and excitement – Fun for everyone! Enjoy nature’s wonderland with boat cruises, swimming, canoeing, hiking/cycling to stunning mountain pools, waterskiing, and much more.
Cruises on a double decker barge for up to 35 people. We park in the gorge where you can braai, take a canoe trip to the waterfall, hike up the mountain, swim or just relax.
Canoes for fishing, exercise or sight seeing Hiking or cycling on a stunning route along the river to mountain pools & water falls Buffeljags Dam is perfect for Watersports, so feel free to bring your own boat
The Conservatory at Schoone Oordt
Breakfasts at The Conservatory, one of the finest restaurants in Swellendam, are made with LOVE as a gourmet 3-course set menu affair and our country hotel has developed quite a reputation for them.
Beginning with a continental buffet of cereals, Alison’s famous granola, natural yoghurt, seasonal fruit salad, cheeses and a fresh bake of the day. Followed by Chef’s choice of one starter, usually a unique, interesting baked, poached or sautéed fruit and one main. These change daily, so if staying more than one evening, you can look forward to a surprise each morning. Traditional bacon and eggs are always available for those that prefer.
Complimentary afternoon tea with home-baked savoury and sweet goodies is served overlooking the garden on sunny summer afternoons. In winter, complimentary snack platters and a warming welcome drink are offered on arrival.
This season we called in the expertise of mega talented Chef Jason Whitehead to consult on the new menu for The Conservatory and we couldn’t be happier and more excited with the final product.
When our wonderful Chef Obie (very sadly) left us to marry his fiancé in Bloemfontein a bit earlier this year, we decided not to replace our Head Chef position, but rather to empower and upskill the ladies that have been working in our kitchen since Chef Wander joined us in 2011. We have been so heartwarmed at the way Elizabeth & Griets have risen to the occasion. Chef Jason was the obvious choice as consultant chef, as he has been visiting us yearly on his own personal retreat for 6 years and we hold precious places in each other’s hearts. He spent a week with us at the end of September (most definitely not on retreat this time!) to train Elizabeth and Grieta. We’re so grateful for the way Chef Jason mentored our two willing and talented chefs – he really took them under his wing and opened their eyes to new ways of cooking and presenting. They still need a bit of practice on the the refinement of presentation, but my word, their tastes rock!
Of course we’re sharing a few sneak peaks of the new menu at The Conservatory Restaurant with you. This menu is bright and bold and filled with dishes that look and feel like summer on a plate. Some dishes filled with familiar tastes but also new and surprising twists. While others are an entirely new experience in themselves.
For starters there are vegetarian and vegan options that are as flavoursome to taste as they are colourful and delightful on the eye. Lemongrass & Citrus Glazed Seafood and Kudu Carpaccio, a familiar favourite, are the meatier starter options.
It’s important to note here that all seafood used on our menu is sustainable and off the SASSI green list. Chef Jason is the Brand Ambassador for SASSI and in keeping with Schoone Oordt’s local, fresh, organic where possible, small farmer, earth friendly food style, our seafood is no exception.
On to mains and it’s an impossible task to single out only one dish as a favourite. We’ll start with Pork Neck, Charred Cauliflower and Hazel Nuts with Herbed Mascarpone and Beurre Noisette. It’s a unique taste combination made with (of course) locally sourced ingredients that make it just that much more special and in keeping with Schoone Oordt’s food style.
Vegetarian main options include Fried Halloumi with Spring Onion Croquette and Wild Mushroom Risotto (Vegan) while Pescetarian options include Local Trout with Asparagus, and Sustainable Line Fish, Coriander Endives with Vanilla Butter, Sweetcorn, Lime and Grapes. Chef Jason is a huge advocate of nose to tail eating and he applies this principle to vegetables too. Nothing in the kitchen is wasted. The skin and offcuts from the trout are used in the fishcakes, for example.
We’ll never leave out the meat-lovers, though. Our Grass Fed Beef Fillet with Goats Cheese Barley, Beetroot, Peas and a Shiraz Jus paired with a glass of Joubert Tradouw Syrah is true fulfillment on a plate.
For the final course we’re spoiled for choice once more. From White Chocolate & Strawberries, to Chef Jason‘s favourite Yoghurt & Liquorice (inspired by Liquorice Allsorts!) all the way to Apple Crumble Tart and Lemon Verbena Cheesecake. Each option a delectable treat and visual feast – you’ll have to try them all.
The proof is in the pudding they say, so come and experience for yourself and support our new kitchen warriors – we’d love to have you over for dinner!
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Cycling, Flora, Golf, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Head Over Hills | Knysna
Head over Hills is a small and exclusive retreat situated on the jagged edge of the famous rocky cliffs of the Knysna Heads and offers the unique and beautiful setting for a breakaway. The situation, accommodation, ambiance and breathtaking views.
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Sunset from Elephant Suite
Deck area
Pool view
Birds Eye
Captain's Suite
Pool view
Whale Suite
Whale Suite
Pansy Shell
Dolphin
Dolphin
Breakfast on the deck
Whale Suite
Seahorse Suite
Elephant Suite
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Whale Suite
The room consists of a King sized bed extra length 180x200 cm, private balcony with deck chairs, ocean view, wireless internet, safe, hairdryer, dressing table, large mirror, DSTV, SMEG bar fridge, Nespresso coffee and tea facilities.
The room consists of a Hastens luxury bed 2000T 180x210 cm, private balcony with sun loungers, ocean view, wireless internet, safe, hairdryer, dressing table, large mirror, DSTV, SMEG bar fridge, Nespresso coffee and tea facilities and a fireplace.
The room consists of 2 single beds, private balcony with deck chairs, ocean view, wireless internet, safe, hairdryer, dressing table, large mirror, DSTV, SMEG bar fridge, Nespresso coffee and tea facilities.
The room consists of a Queen sized bed extra length 160x200 cm, private balcony with deck chairs, lagoon view, wireless internet, safe, hairdryer, dressing table, large mirror, DSTV, SMEG bar fridge, Nespresso coffee and tea facilities.
The room consists of a Hastens luxury bed 2000T 180x210 cm, private balcony with deck chairs, ocean view, wireless internet, safe, hairdryer, dressing table, large mirror, DSTV, SMEG bar fridge, Nespresso coffee and tea facilities.
The room consists of a Queen sized extra length bed 160x200 cm, private balcony with deck chairs, ocean view, wireless internet, safe, hairdryer, dressing table, large mirror, DSTV, SMEG bar fridge, Nespresso coffee and tea facilities.
The room consists of a King sized extra length bed 180x200 cm, private balcony with sun loungers, ocean view, wireless internet, safe, hairdryer, dressing table, large mirror, DSTV, SMEG bar fridge, Nespresso coffee and tea facilities.
The room consists of a Hastens luxury bed 2000T 180x210 cm, private sun deck with sun loungers, ocean view, wireless internet, safe, hairdryer, dressing table, large mirror, DSTV, SMEG bar fridge, Nespresso coffee and tea facilities, sauna & fireplace.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Pool, Restaurant
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Mini Bar (Complimentary), Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card
Head over Hills
When you stay with us at Head over Hills, you don’t have to leave the hotel for a first-class lunch or dinner. You might not want to miss the stunning sunset, or you may feel like a night in.
In season we serve lunch and dinner daily throughout the year. Our private chef composes a daily à la carte menu where you can choose to have one, two or three courses. So, stay at Head over Hills for lunch and dinner and enjoy the best view in Knysna.
To reserve a table for dinner, please call or email us. Alternatively, please inform one of our helpful staff of your request upon arrival. We will gladly book a table for you.
Special Interests: Cycling, Golf, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wine
The Last Word Franschhoek | Franschhoek
Last Word Franschhoek is the best hotel in Franschhoek for independent, savvy travellers. Come and explore South Africa’s gourmet capital from our 5-star boutique hotel Huguenot Road, mere heartbeats away from some of the world’s most celebrated eateries. Highly personalised service delivered by lovely people is our hallmark. Discover classic, understated elegance in our eight lavishly appointed, spacious en-suite Superior Rooms and two sumptuous Pool Suites. The latter, replete with sparkling semi-private plunge pool and leafy courtyard, ideal for rejuvenating moments that are solely yours.
The generous guest lounge at our Franschhoek ‘beyond boutique’ hotel opens on to a sun-drenched, poolside patio and courtyard featuring a sizeable, sparkling pool. Adjacent to this becalmed space is our beautiful dining room. Abundant sunshine and fresh air spill through the large windows, elevating moods and dining experiences. For those wishing to remain tethered to the outside world, our free wireless internet service is a welcome feature. The self-service Resident’s Bar is housing a robust selection of quality beverages is always available for your enjoyment. Raise a toast the end of another perfect day out from Last Word Franschhoek’s private rooftop patio, a personal space to pair champagne moments with gorgeous wrap-around views.
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Activities and Services
Lounge and bar area
decor details
dining room
Breakfast
upstairs deck
pool area
bathroom
bar and lounge
room details
lounge fireplace
pool suite
There are two Pool Suites available, both are 70m² including the bathroom. There is a separate shower, bath and toilet. A private plunge pool and courtyard are included as well as a separate lounge area and complimentary mini bar and snacks.
There are eight Superior Double Rooms available that are each 45m² in size. They feature complimentary mini bar drinks, snacks and a separate shower, bath and toilet.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Library, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Detached Private Bathroom, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Plunge Pool, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Underfloor Heating
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Chauffer Service, Credit Card, Room Service
Cycling
Cycling through the vineyards or along the streets of Franschhoek to enjoy an afternoon coffee or wine tasting.