Franschhoek

#Franschhoek Franschhoek (“French corner”), a small town in the heartland of the Cape Winelands, is one of the very popular places to visit when in Cape Town. It is situated in the picturesque Franschhoek valley, surrounded by magnificent mountains and vineyards.

After the Edict of Nantes was repealed in France, many French protestants fled the country. Some of them came to the Cape. 176 French families were settled in the current Franschoek valley. The French brought with them their knowledge of viniculture and helped to establish the proud wine culture of South Africa. Today, the valley boasts some of the best known wine estates, some of them acclaimed at international wine festivals.

Due to its homely atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Franschoek is very popular with the locals of Cape Town and tourists. Dominant landmarks are the Monument and Museum commemorating the French Huguenots and the beautiful Dutch Reformed Church in the main street. The town boasts some of the best restaurants in the country. Visitors love a walk down the quaint main street, browsing in the local shops and having coffee or a meal at one of the many coffee shops and restaurants.