Idyllically situated in the Cape Winelands, this peaceful country retreat is one of the oldest towns in South Africa. The town was named Franschoek, meaning “French Corner” as it was founded by French Huguenots settlers who fled the inquisition in Europe and were seeking a secluded little hide-out. They found it in the remarkably fertile valley of Franschhoek and this fascinating heritage is showcased at the Huguenot Memorial Museum. The Cape Dutch architecture in much of the village remains remarkably well preserved as restrictions were placed on the extent of renovations and new construction in order to preserve the aesthetic of the original settlers. The town’s ideal summer weather and towering snow-capped peaks in winter have turned this once sleepy little village into a popular tourist attraction. Its proximity to Cape Town allows for pleasant day trips during which visitors can explore the area’s many world-class wine estates, indulge their taste buds at the impressive range of excellent restaurants or simply browse the quaint, upmarket boutiques strewn along the town’s lovely tree-lined avenues.