Haute Cabriere, Grand Provance, La Motte & more

FRANSCHHOEK

  • Established: Officially in 1833 
  • Franschhoek is Dutch for “French Corner” 
  • Distance from Cape Town: ±80 km
  • Popular varietals: Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillion, Cap Classique – Chardonnay & Pinot Noir blends
  • The Wine Tram offers a unique way to visit the regions farms. However getting back to Cape Town after a festive afternoon can be a problem as the town isn’t well serviced by ride hailing apps.
  • Over 40 estates in the region

#FUNFITADVENTURESCT

MORE ABOUT FRANSCHHOEK

Situated just 1 hour away from Cape Town, lies the picturesque town of Franschhoek. Described by some as the food and wine capital of South Africa, this region was made famous by the French Huguenots, who arrived here in 1688 to escape the persecution of Prostestants in Europe. They were offered refuge, and in return contributed towards the rapidly expanding economy of the Cape colony. They were given land in an area then known as Oliphantshoek (Elephants corner), and named their new farms after the regions in France from which they originated. The name slowly changed to Franschhoek owing to the concentration of French Huguenots in the area. 

The town itself has become very popular, and despite its relatively small size it is home to some of the country’s top restaurants. Walking up the main road is a must do, as its packed with boutique furniture and clothing stores, art galleries, restaurants and coffee shops.

The Wine Tram is located just outside of town, and offers 8 different routes each stopping at up to 8 different farms. Another activity to add to the to-do list, is a drive up the Franschhoek pass and to the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. The reserve offers some beautiful hikes (see our Franschhoek hike and wine adventure) and is a popular destination for locals and travellers alike. 

Back to the wine…Franschhoeks warm summer climate, and mix of alluvial sandstone, and heavy or sandy terroir (depending where the farm is situated), makes for a broad spectrum of amazing wine. The region produces some fantastic heavy, robust red wines as well as creamy, barrel-fermented Semillon, and elegant Chardonnay. There are numerous estates in the area, and chosing the “best” ones to visit is difficult and subjective. They all offer fantastic wine, so we’ll leave that to the experts, but which estates have the best views, or restaurants? We’ve listed some of our favourites, but in all fairness you can’t really go wrong with any farm in the region.

BABYLONSTOREN

Speciality: Cab Sav, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc

Ok ok, its not quite in Franschhoek but its close enough, and definitely worth a visit if you are making your way out to Franschhoek. The highlight of this unique venue are its gardens, which are considered to be the heart of the farm. There are 15 clusters, with over 300 varieties of plants, where each one is either edible or offers medicinal value. Inspired by the Company Gardens in Cape Town, and fed by a near by stream which uses gravity to get the water flowing, the layout is that of a classical French style garden. The name Babylon refers to the hanging gardens of Babylon – created by King Nebuchadnezzar, while Storen means store in Afrikaans. 

Why we like it: This popular estate offers plenty, and you dont have to enjoy wine to have a good time. Besides its overnight accommodation options, it has 2 restaurants to choose from and a bakery. The wine and cellar tour is a must, where you get to sample 10 of their wines accompanied by small nibbles. Otherwise opt for an Olive Oil tasting, or try the Tea Experience in their garden. Worst case, grab a coffee and take a stroll! 

BOSCHENDAL

Speciality: MCC, Chardonnay, Shiraz

One of the oldest estates in the area, Boschendal is highly rated and definitely worth a visit. It is more than just a wine farm, and offers plenty to do over and above the standard wine tasting and cellar tours. There are cycling, running and hiking trails, weekly guided open water swims, walking tours of the herb garden, as well as the option to explore the farm on horse back. Once you have finished your adventure you can pop into The Deli for a coffee and something to eat, or visit the Farm Shop and Butchery and pick up some home made goodies. If enjoying a picnic and a glass of wine under an oak is your kind of thing, they offer picnic baskets and outdoor wine tasting during the summer months. For the kids there is an outdoor play area and bike pump track. 

Why we like it: After exploring the farm, and taking in the mountain views, being able to sit outside under the oak trees and sip on a coffee, or sample their wine, is what we really like. Boschendal offers so much and has really gone out of their way to try and cater to everyone. We think they have done a great job! We also love the relaxed atmosphere of the Friday night Market, which is a great way to spend an evening with the family.

GRANDE PROVENCE

Speciality: Sauvignon Blanc, Chennin Blanc, Merlot, Cab Sav

This famous Franschhoek estate is steeped in history and tradition! Pierre Joubert, the French Huguenot who we’ve already mentioned, the one that arrived in 1694 and slowly began to acquire land…well he bought this one too. Today the estate is owned by a business consortium, with a passion for food, wine and hospitality. Join them for one of their famous picnics (Oct – April), a private wine tasting and blending experience, or grab something to eat at their deli which is open 7 days a week until 4pm. For their fine-dining option, book ahead as the restaurant is only open on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Why we like it: The views of the Hottentots Holland mountains from the outside seating area, plus the beautiful gardens and art work make this estate one of our favourites in the area. Perfect for enjoying a glass of wine while relaxing under a shady tree on a hot summers day.

HAUTE CABRIERE

Speciality: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

Situated at the base of the Franschhoek pass, this family owned estate is well known for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cap Classique (sparkling wine). The farm dates all the way back to 1694, when Pierre Jourdan arrived in the Cape as one the Protestants fleeing persecution from the Catholics in France. As customary in the Champagne Valley of France, wine produced on the land is named after the land owner. To continue with this tradition, the von Arnim family decided to name their sparkling wine after Pierre Jourdan. Join them for a tasting on their new deck, sample some of their baked goods from the deli, or enjoy a gourmet meal at their restaurant.

Why we like it: The view of the valley is what sets Haute Cabriere apart from its competition. The new deck upfront offers the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a tasting while gazing out into the wine lands below. Dont forget the postcard photo frame for group photos!

LA MOTTE

Speciality: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cab Sav

On the outskirts of town, along the main road, you will find one of the oldest wine estates in the area. Its origin dates back to 1695 when the land was granted to a German immigrant by the Dutch East India Company, which was later sold to French Huguenot Pierre Joubert in 1709 (not to be confused with Pierre Jourdan). The first vines, all 4000 of them, were planted in 1752. Now under the guidance of the Rupert family, it is home to the Pierneef a La Motte Restaurant, one of the best fining-dining options in the area. Visit the art gallery, curio shop, wine tasting room or simply enjoy a glass of wine on the grass seating area underneath the old oak trees. 

Why we like it: Its beautiful setting, Cape Dutch architecture, and outside seating area give it a relaxed and comfortable feel, the perfect place to recover from the hustle and bustle of Franschhoek town. 

LE PETITE FERME

LE PETITE FERME

Speciality: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cab Sav

On the outskirts of town, along the main road, you will find one of the oldest wine estates in the area. Its origin dates back to 1695 when the land was granted to a German immigrant by the Dutch East India Company, which was later sold to French Huguenot Pierre Joubert in 1709 (not to be confused with Pierre Jourdan). The first vines, all 4000 of them, were planted in 1752. Now under the guidance of the Rupert family, it is home to the Pierneef a La Motte Restaurant, one of the best fining-dining options in the area. Visit the art gallery, curio shop, wine tasting room or simply enjoy a glass of wine on the grass seating area underneath the old oak trees. 

Why we like it: Its beautiful setting, Cape Dutch architecture, and outside seating area give it a relaxed and comfortable feel, the perfect place to recover from the hustle and bustle of Franschhoek town. 

PLAISIR DE MERLE

PLAISIR DE MERLE

Speciality: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cab Sav

On the outskirts of town, along the main road, you will find one of the oldest wine estates in the area. Its origin dates back to 1695 when the land was granted to a German immigrant by the Dutch East India Company, which was later sold to French Huguenot Pierre Joubert in 1709 (not to be confused with Pierre Jourdan). The first vines, all 4000 of them, were planted in 1752. Now under the guidance of the Rupert family, it is home to the Pierneef a La Motte Restaurant, one of the best fining-dining options in the area. Visit the art gallery, curio shop, wine tasting room or simply enjoy a glass of wine on the grass seating area underneath the old oak trees. 

Why we like it: Its beautiful setting, Cape Dutch architecture, and outside seating area give it a relaxed and comfortable feel, the perfect place to recover from the hustle and bustle of Franschhoek town. 

LA MOTTE

.

Speciality: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cab Sav

On the outskirts of town, along the main road, you will find one of the oldest wine estates in the area. Its origin dates back to 1695 when the land was granted to a German immigrant by the Dutch East India Company, which was later sold to French Huguenot Pierre Joubert in 1709 (not to be confused with Pierre Jourdan). The first vines, all 4000 of them, were planted in 1752. Now under the guidance of the Rupert family, it is home to the Pierneef a La Motte Restaurant, one of the best fining-dining options in the area. Visit the art gallery, curio shop, wine tasting room or simply enjoy a glass of wine on the grass seating area underneath the old oak trees. 

Why we like it: Its beautiful setting, Cape Dutch architecture, and outside seating area give it a relaxed and comfortable feel, the perfect place to recover from the hustle and bustle of Franschhoek town. 

GRANDE PROVENCE

.

Speciality: Sauvignon Blanc, Chennin Blanc, Merlot, Cab Sav

This famous Franschhoek estate is steeped in history and tradition! Pierre Joubert, the French Huguenot who we’ve already mentioned, the one that arrived in 1694 and slowly began to acquire land…well he bought this one too. Today the estate is owned by a business consortium, with a passion for food, wine and hospitality. Join them for one of their famous picnics (Oct – April), a private wine tasting and blending experience, or grab something to eat at their deli which is open 7 days a week until 4pm. For their fine-dining option, book ahead as the restaurant is only open on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Why we like it: The views of the Hottentots Holland mountains from the outside seating area, plus the beautiful gardens and art work make this estate one of our favourites in the area. Perfect for enjoying a glass of wine while relaxing under a shady tree on a hot summers day.

NOT SURE WHERE TO GO?

Take a look at our Wine Adventures, and let us get you to and around the winelands safely.

#FUNFITADVENTURESCT

NOT SURE WHERE TO GO?

Take a look at our Wine Adventures, and let us get you to and around the winelands safely.

#FUNFITADVENTURESCT

FRANSCHHOEK WINE

Haute Cabriere, Boschendal & more!

FRANSCHHOEK

  • Established: Officially in 1833 
  • Franschhoek is Dutch for “French Corner” 
  • Distance from Cape Town: ±80 km
  • Popular varietals: Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillion, Cap Classique – Chardonnay & Pinot Noir blends
  • The Wine Tram offers a unique way to visit the regions farms. However getting back to Cape Town after a festive afternoon can be a problem as the town isn’t well serviced by ride hailing apps.
  • Over 40 estates in the region

#FUNFITADVENTURESCT

MORE ABOUT FRANSCHHOEK

Situated just 1 hour away from Cape Town, lies the picturesque town of Franschhoek. Described by some as the food and wine capital of South Africa, this region was made famous by the French Huguenots, who arrived here in 1688 to escape the persecution of Prostestants in Europe. They were offered refuge, and in return contributed towards the rapidly expanding economy of the Cape colony. They were given land in an area then known as Oliphantshoek (Elephants corner), and named their new farms after the regions in France from which they originated. The name slowly changed to Franschhoek owing to the concentration of French Huguenots in the area. 

The town itself has become very popular, and despite its relatively small size it is home to some of the country’s top restaurants. Walking up the main road is a must do, as its packed with boutique furniture and clothing stores, art galleries, restaurants and coffee shops.

The Wine Tram is located just outside of town, and offers 8 different routes each stopping at up to 8 different farms. Another activity to add to the to-do list, is a drive up the Franschhoek pass and to the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. The reserve offers some beautiful hikes (see our Franschhoek hike and wine adventure) and is a popular destination for locals and travellers alike. 

Back to the wine…Franschhoeks warm summer climate, and mix of alluvial sandstone, and heavy or sandy terroir (depending where the farm is situated), makes for a broad spectrum of amazing wine. The region produces some fantastic heavy, robust red wines as well as creamy, barrel-fermented Semillon, and elegant Chardonnay. There are numerous estates in the area, and chosing the “best” ones to visit is difficult and subjective. They all offer fantastic wine, so we’ll leave that to the experts, but which estates have the best views, or restaurants? We’ve listed some of our favourites, but in all fairness you can’t really go wrong with any farm in the region.

BABYLONSTOREN

Speciality: Cab Sav, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc

Ok ok, its not quite in Franschhoek but its close enough, and definitely worth a visit if you are making your way out to Franschhoek. The highlight of this unique venue are its gardens, which are considered to be the heart of the farm. There are 15 clusters, with over 300 varieties of plants, where each one is either edible or offers medicinal value. Inspired by the Company Gardens in Cape Town, and fed by a near by stream which uses gravity to get the water flowing, the layout is that of a classical French style garden. The name Babylon refers to the hanging gardens of Babylon – created by King Nebuchadnezzar, while Storen means store in Afrikaans. 

Why we like it: This popular estate offers plenty, and you dont have to enjoy wine to have a good time. Besides its overnight accommodation options, it has 2 restaurants to choose from and a bakery. The wine and cellar tour is a must, where you get to sample 10 of their wines accompanied by small nibbles. Otherwise opt for an Olive Oil tasting, or try the Tea Experience in their garden. Worst case, grab a coffee and take a stroll! 

BOSCHENDAL

Speciality: MCC, Chardonnay, Shiraz

One of the oldest estates in the area, Boschendal is highly rated and definitely worth a visit. It is more than just a wine farm, and offers plenty to do over and above the standard wine tasting and cellar tours. There are cycling, running and hiking trails, weekly guided open water swims, walking tours of the herb garden, as well as the option to explore the farm on horse back. Once you have finished your adventure you can pop into The Deli for a coffee and something to eat, or visit the Farm Shop and Butchery and pick up some home made goodies. If enjoying a picnic and a glass of wine under an oak is your kind of thing, they offer picnic baskets and outdoor wine tasting during the summer months. For the kids there is an outdoor play area and bike pump track. 

Why we like it: After exploring the farm, and taking in the mountain views, being able to sit outside under the oak trees and sip on a coffee, or sample their wine, is what we really like. Boschendal offers so much and has really gone out of their way to try and cater to everyone. We think they have done a great job! We also love the relaxed atmosphere of the Friday night Market, which is a great way to spend an evening with the family.

GRANDE PROVENCE

Speciality: Sauvignon Blanc, Chennin Blanc, Merlot, Cab Sav

This famous Franschhoek estate is steeped in history and tradition! Pierre Joubert, the French Huguenot who we’ve already mentioned, the one that arrived in 1694 and slowly began to acquire land…well he bought this one too. Today the estate is owned by a business consortium, with a passion for food, wine and hospitality. Join them for one of their famous picnics (Oct – April), a private wine tasting and blending experience, or grab something to eat at their deli which is open 7 days a week until 4pm. For their fine-dining option, book ahead as the restaurant is only open on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Why we like it: The views of the Hottentots Holland mountains from the outside seating area, plus the beautiful gardens and art work make this estate one of our favourites in the area. Perfect for enjoying a glass of wine while relaxing under a shady tree on a hot summers day.

HAUTE CABRIERE

Speciality: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

Situated at the base of the Franschhoek pass, this family owned estate is well known for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cap Classique (sparkling wine). The farm dates all the way back to 1694, when Pierre Jourdan arrived in the Cape as one the Protestants fleeing persecution from the Catholics in France. As customary in the Champagne Valley of France, wine produced on the land is named after the land owner. To continue with this tradition, the von Arnim family decided to name their sparkling wine after Pierre Jourdan. Join them for a tasting on their new deck, sample some of their baked goods from the deli, or enjoy a gourmet meal at their restaurant.

Why we like it: The view of the valley is what sets Haute Cabriere apart from its competition. The new deck upfront offers the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a tasting while gazing out into the wine lands below. Dont forget the postcard photo frame for group photos!

LA MOTTE

Speciality: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cab Sav

On the outskirts of town, along the main road, you will find one of the oldest wine estates in the area. Its origin dates back to 1695 when the land was granted to a German immigrant by the Dutch East India Company, which was later sold to French Huguenot Pierre Joubert in 1709 (not to be confused with Pierre Jourdan). The first vines, all 4000 of them, were planted in 1752. Now under the guidance of the Rupert family, it is home to the Pierneef a La Motte Restaurant, one of the best fining-dining options in the area. Visit the art gallery, curio shop, wine tasting room or simply enjoy a glass of wine on the grass seating area underneath the old oak trees. 

Why we like it: Its beautiful setting, Cape Dutch architecture, and outside seating area give it a relaxed and comfortable feel, the perfect place to recover from the hustle and bustle of Franschhoek town. 

NOT SURE WHERE TO GO?

Take a look at our Wine Adventures, and let us get you to and around the winelands safely.

#FUNFITADVENTURESCT

BOSCHENDAL

.

Speciality: MCC, Chardonnay, Shiraz

Another one of the oldest estates in the area, Boschendal is highly rated and definitely worth a visit. It is more than just a wine farm, and offers plenty to do over and above the standard wine tasting and cellar tours. There are cycling, running and hiking trails, weekly guided open water swims, walking tours of the herb garden, as well as the option to explore the farm on horse back. Once you have finished your adventure you can pop into The Deli for a coffee and something to eat, or visit the Farm Shop and Butchery and pick up some home made goodies. If enjoying a picnic and a glass of wine under an oak is your kind of thing, they offer picnic baskets and outdoor wine tasting during the summer months. For the kids there is an outdoor play area and bike pump track. 

Why we like it: After exploring the farm, and taking in the mountain views, being able to sit outside under the oak trees and sip on a coffee, or sample their wine, is what we really like. Boschendal offers so much and has really gone out of their way to try and cater to everyone. We think they have done a great job! We also love the relaxed atmosphere of the Friday night Market, which is a great way to spend an evening with the family.

NOT SURE WHERE TO GO?

Take a look at our Wine Adventures, and let us get you to and around the winelands safely.

#FUNFITADVENTURESCT

FRANSCHHOEK

WINE

Haute Cabriere, Boschendal & more!

FRANSCHHOEK

  • Established: Officially in 1833 
  • Franschhoek is Dutch for “French Corner” 
  • Distance from Cape Town: ±80 km
  • Popular varietals: Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillion, Cap Classique – Chardonnay & Pinot Noir blends
  • The Wine Tram offers a unique way to visit the regions farms. However getting back to Cape Town after a festive afternoon can be a problem as the town isn’t well serviced by ride hailing apps.
  • Over 40 estates in the region

#FUNFITADVENTURESCT

MORE ON FRANSCHHOEK

Situated just 1 hour away from Cape Town, lies the picturesque town of Franschhoek. Described by some as the food and wine capital of South Africa, this region was made famous by the French Huguenots, who arrived here in 1688 to escape the persecution of Prostestants in Europe. They were offered refuge, and in return contributed towards the rapidly expanding economy of the Cape colony. They were given land in an area then known as Oliphantshoek (Elephants corner), and named their new farms after the regions in France from which they originated. The name slowly changed to Franschhoek owing to the concentration of French Huguenots in the area. 

The town itself has become very popular, and despite its relatively small size it is home to some of the country’s top restaurants. Walking up the main road is a must do, as its packed with boutique furniture and clothing stores, art galleries, restaurants and coffee shops.

The Wine Tram is located just outside of town, and offers 8 different routes each stopping at up to 8 different farms. Another activity to add to the to-do list, is a drive up the Franschhoek pass and to the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. The reserve offers some beautiful hikes (see our Franschhoek hike and wine adventure) and is a popular destination for locals and travellers alike. 

Back to the wine…Franschhoeks warm summer climate, and mix of alluvial sandstone, and heavy or sandy terroir (depending where the farm is situated), makes for a broad spectrum of amazing wine. The region produces some fantastic heavy, robust red wines as well as creamy, barrel-fermented Semillon, and elegant Chardonnay. There are numerous estates in the area, and chosing the “best” ones to visit is difficult and subjective. They all offer fantastic wine, so we’ll leave that to the experts, but which estates have the best views, or restaurants? We’ve listed some of our favourites, but in all fairness you can’t really go wrong with any farm in the region.

BABYLONSTOREN

Speciality: Cab Sav, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc

Ok ok, its not quite in Franschhoek but its close enough, and definitely worth a visit if you are making your way out to Franschhoek. The highlight of this unique venue are its gardens, which are considered to be the heart of the farm. There are 15 clusters, with over 300 varieties of plants, where each one is either edible or offers medicinal value. Inspired by the Company Gardens in Cape Town, and fed by a near by stream which uses gravity to get the water flowing, the layout is that of a classical French style garden. The name Babylon refers to the hanging gardens of Babylon – created by King Nebuchadnezzar, while Storen means store in Afrikaans. 

Why we like it: This popular estate offers plenty, and you dont have to enjoy wine to have a good time. Besides its overnight accommodation options, it has 2 restaurants to choose from and a bakery. The wine and cellar tour is a must, where you get to sample 10 of their wines accompanied by small nibbles. Otherwise opt for an Olive Oil tasting, or try the Tea Experience in their garden. Worst case, grab a coffee and take a stroll! 

BOSCHENDAL

Speciality: MCC, Chardonnay, Shiraz

One of the oldest estates in the area, Boschendal is highly rated and definitely worth a visit. It is more than just a wine farm, and offers plenty to do over and above the standard wine tasting and cellar tours. There are cycling, running and hiking trails, weekly guided open water swims, walking tours of the herb garden, as well as the option to explore the farm on horse back. Once you have finished your adventure you can pop into The Deli for a coffee and something to eat, or visit the Farm Shop and Butchery and pick up some home made goodies. If enjoying a picnic and a glass of wine under an oak is your kind of thing, they offer picnic baskets and outdoor wine tasting during the summer months. For the kids there is an outdoor play area and bike pump track. 

Why we like it: After exploring the farm, and taking in the mountain views, being able to sit outside under the oak trees and sip on a coffee, or sample their wine, is what we really like. Boschendal offers so much and has really gone out of their way to try and cater to everyone. We think they have done a great job! We also love the relaxed atmosphere of the Friday night Market, which is a great way to spend an evening with the family.

BOSCHENDAL

Speciality: MCC, Chardonnay, Shiraz

One of the oldest estates in the area, Boschendal is highly rated and definitely worth a visit. It is more than just a wine farm, and offers plenty to do over and above the standard wine tasting and cellar tours. There are cycling, running and hiking trails, weekly guided open water swims, walking tours of the herb garden, as well as the option to explore the farm on horse back. Once you have finished your adventure you can pop into The Deli for a coffee and something to eat, or visit the Farm Shop and Butchery and pick up some home made goodies. If enjoying a picnic and a glass of wine under an oak is your kind of thing, they offer picnic baskets and outdoor wine tasting during the summer months. For the kids there is an outdoor play area and bike pump track. 

Why we like it: After exploring the farm, and taking in the mountain views, being able to sit outside under the oak trees and sip on a coffee, or sample their wine, is what we really like. Boschendal offers so much and has really gone out of their way to try and cater to everyone. We think they have done a great job! We also love the relaxed atmosphere of the Friday night Market, which is a great way to spend an evening with the family.

GRANDE PROVENCE

Speciality: Sauvignon Blanc, Chennin Blanc, Merlot, Cab Sav

This famous Franschhoek estate is steeped in history and tradition! Pierre Joubert, the French Huguenot who we’ve already mentioned, the one that arrived in 1694 and slowly began to acquire land…well he bought this one too. Today the estate is owned by a business consortium, with a passion for food, wine and hospitality. Join them for one of their famous picnics (Oct – April), a private wine tasting and blending experience, or grab something to eat at their deli which is open 7 days a week until 4pm. For their fine-dining option, book ahead as the restaurant is only open on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Why we like it: The views of the Hottentots Holland mountains from the outside seating area, plus the beautiful gardens and art work make this estate one of our favourites in the area. Perfect for enjoying a glass of wine while relaxing under a shady tree on a hot summers day.

HAUTE CABRIERE

Speciality: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

Situated at the base of the Franschhoek pass, this family owned estate is well known for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cap Classique (sparkling wine). The farm dates all the way back to 1694, when Pierre Jourdan arrived in the Cape as one the Protestants fleeing persecution from the Catholics in France. As customary in the Champagne Valley of France, wine produced on the land is named after the land owner. To continue with this tradition, the von Arnim family decided to name their sparkling wine after Pierre Jourdan. Join them for a tasting on their new deck, sample some of their baked goods from the deli, or enjoy a gourmet meal at their restaurant.

Why we like it: The view of the valley is what sets Haute Cabriere apart from its competition. The new deck upfront offers the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a tasting while gazing out into the wine lands below. Dont forget the postcard photo frame for group photos!

LA MOTTE

Speciality: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cab Sav

On the outskirts of town, along the main road, you will find one of the oldest wine estates in the area. Its origin dates back to 1695 when the land was granted to a German immigrant by the Dutch East India Company, which was later sold to French Huguenot Pierre Joubert in 1709 (not to be confused with Pierre Jourdan). The first vines, all 4000 of them, were planted in 1752. Now under the guidance of the Rupert family, it is home to the Pierneef a La Motte Restaurant, one of the best fining-dining options in the area. Visit the art gallery, curio shop, wine tasting room or simply enjoy a glass of wine on the grass seating area underneath the old oak trees. 

Why we like it: Its beautiful setting, Cape Dutch architecture, and outside seating area give it a relaxed and comfortable feel, the perfect place to recover from the hustle and bustle of Franschhoek town. 

NOT SURE WHERE TO GO?

Take a look at our Wine Adventures, and let us get you to and around the winelands safely.

#FUNFITADVENTURESCT

BOSCHENDAL

.

Speciality: MCC, Chardonnay, Shiraz

Another one of the oldest estates in the area, Boschendal is highly rated and definitely worth a visit. It is more than just a wine farm, and offers plenty to do over and above the standard wine tasting and cellar tours. There are cycling, running and hiking trails, weekly guided open water swims, walking tours of the herb garden, as well as the option to explore the farm on horse back. Once you have finished your adventure you can pop into The Deli for a coffee and something to eat, or visit the Farm Shop and Butchery and pick up some home made goodies. If enjoying a picnic and a glass of wine under an oak is your kind of thing, they offer picnic baskets and outdoor wine tasting during the summer months. For the kids there is an outdoor play area and bike pump track. 

Why we like it: After exploring the farm, and taking in the mountain views, being able to sit outside under the oak trees and sip on a coffee, or sample their wine, is what we really like. Boschendal offers so much and has really gone out of their way to try and cater to everyone. We think they have done a great job! We also love the relaxed atmosphere of the Friday night Market, which is a great way to spend an evening with the family.

NOT SURE WHERE TO GO?

Take a look at our Wine Adventures, and let us get you to and around the winelands safely.

#FUNFITADVENTURESCT