Franschhoek, meaning "French Corner," was founded in 1688 by Huguenots who fled persecution in France due to their Protestant-Calvinist beliefs. The French settlers found a new home at the Cape, significantly boosting the quality of South African wine production. The Huguenot Memorial in Franschhoek commemorates these immigrants, who gave their names to many places and families in the region. Families such as Du Toit, De Villiers, and Le Roux are common in South Africa, especially around Franschhoek. The town offers a French-inspired atmosphere along the Main Road, with stylish cafés, French restaurants, boutiques, and galleries.
THINGS TO DO:
- Wine tasting at one of the many wineries, including the Wine Tram (www.winetram.co.za).
- Visit Babylonstoren & take a garden tour – also, check out the new tour at the historic working farm Soetmelksvlei and visit the wine museum (www.babylonstoren.com).
- Hike in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve.
- E-bike tour through the Franschhoek Winelands with wine tasting and lunch: (www.vinebikes.co.za/franschhoek-bicycle-wine-tour/).
RESTAURANT & WINERY RECOMMENDATIONS:
The 20 Best Restaurants in Franschhoek in 2026: The 20 Best Restaurants in Franschhoek
- Le Lude Estate, near the Huguenot Memorial – excellent cuisine (www.lelude.co.za).
- Boschendal, especially for the picnic (www.boschendal.com).
- La Petite Colombe (Top 10 South Africa, www.lapetitecolombe.com).
- Le Chêne (www.lechene.co.za/restaurant).
- La Motte (www.la-motte.com).
- Grande Provence (www.grandeprovence.co.za).
OUR TIPS:
Franschhoek Village Market - Every Saturday, 09:00h - 15:00h, Address: 29 Huguenot St, Franschhoek, 7690 (www.franschhoekvillagemarket.co.za)
Stretching across 62,000 hectares beneath the rugged Warmwaterberg Mountains in South Africa’s Little Karoo, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is one of the country’s largest privately owned wildlife reserves. Located along the scenic Route 62, approximately three hours from Cape Town, this remarkable conservation area encompasses vast open plains, dramatic rock formations, deep gorges and sweeping mountain landscapes. Once farmland, Sanbona has been carefully restored into a thriving wilderness where the Big Five roam alongside gemsbok, eland, kudu, zebra, springbok and the rare riverine rabbit. The reserve also protects diverse habitats, including Succulent Karoo, renosterveld and mountain fynbos, supporting an extraordinary variety of plant and bird life. Visitors can enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, stargazing, wildlife photography and excursions to ancient San rock art sites, creating an unforgettable blend of nature, conservation and cultural heritage.
Resting in a fertile valley of the majestic Outeniqua Mountains along South Africa’s world-famous Garden Route, the historic city of George is one of the oldest towns in the country, originally established as a woodcutter’s outpost. Today, it serves as the commercial hub of the Garden Route. Surrounded by endless beaches, soaring mountains and glittering lakes, George is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers, while still offering the comforts of a modern city, including excellent restaurants, shops and a large shopping mall. Visitors can enjoy championship golf courses, explore local history at the George Museum, or visit the Garden Route Botanical Garden, which features scenic walking trails and vibrant displays of indigenous fynbos. With its unique balance of mountain scenery, coastal access and small-city charm, George remains one of the Garden Route’s most rewarding destinations.
Situated on the Indian Ocean coastline just north of Durban, Umhlanga is an upmarket seaside town renowned for its golden beaches, modern lifestyle and relaxed coastal atmosphere. The town's palm-lined promenade stretches alongside the ocean, inviting leisurely walks, cycling and whale watching during the migration season. The iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse and scenic Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve add natural and historical appeal, while nearby shopping centres, restaurants and cafés create a lively social scene. Warm waters and lifeguarded beaches make swimming and surfing popular throughout much of the year. Combining easy access to Durban with a polished resort feel, Umhlanga is an excellent base for both beach holidays and exploring the wider KwaZulu-Natal coastline.
Stretching from Amanzimtoti to Port Edward, South Africa’s KwaZulu Natal South Coast is all about stunning beaches, excellent fishing and fantastic golf locations. Well-developed resort towns dot this lush coastline and cater to every need from diving to dining, with top-notch golf courses often forming the basis of holidays to the area. Animal lovers flock to the Amanzimtoti Bird Sanctuary, home to 150 bird species including Giant Kingfisher and Hamerkop. Adventure sport enthusiasts can take a brave leap at the Oribi Gorge’s Wild Gorge Swing, the highest swing in the world, equivalent to a 55 storey building. The KwaZulu Natal South Coast offers visitors an endless summer with a variety of activities including excellent swimming, snorkelling, hiking, birdwatching, dolphin spotting and viewing the annual sardine run.
