The picturesque village of Franschhoek is brimming with ‘joie de vivre’ and rural charm. It’s full of gourmet restaurants, eclectic shops and boutique hotels. All in a pretty valley setting surrounded by mountains.

The origins of Franschhoek date back to 1688 when some of the French Huguenots fleeing religious persecution settled in the valley, then known as Elephants Corner. With their arrival, it became known as French Corner, or 'Franschhoek' in Afrikaans. The French influence is still very evident today with wine estates such as Mont Rochelle, Haute Cabriere, La Motte or L'Omarins, and in the number of award-winning restaurants.