Travel bucket list idea:
Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa
Bucket List Experience
Cradled in a valley of fynbos-clad mountains, the ‘French Corner’ of the Cape Winelands is famous for its unforgettable food and wine experiences. From boutique wineries offering cellar tours and tastings, to charming bistros and fine dining in the heart of the village, this is a bucket list destination for bacchanalian adventures.
Alongside the feast of food and wine there’s culture to discover here too, from the town’s graceful Huguenot Monument to the many art galleries dotted along the main road and on surrounding estates. If it’s joie de vivre in the Cape you’re after, head straight to Franschhoek.
Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa
Experience
Gardeners and food-to-table devotees would love the 8 acres of bountiful gardens at Babylonstoren, one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms. They offer daily walking tours guided by the estate horticulturists. There’s also an excellent on-site restaurant, and an elegant farm shop that sells local foods and homewares.
Good for age: 18+
Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa
Experience
Showcasing over 200 classic cars from the Rupert family’s private collection, petrolheads can delve into a century of motoring history, from South Africa’s first Model T Ford to the rare Ferrari Enzo. It’s open daily, but you must book an appointment via the website before you go. You can also book a ride in a classic car.
Adult price: 5
Good for age: 4+
Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa
Experience
This scenic hop-on hop-off tram operates on eight routes connecting 24 wine estates in the Franschhoek Valley. It’s a charismatically convenient way to get around, and you can stop at your own pace for wine tastings, vineyard walks and cellar tours. The routes begin/end at the Franschhoek Terminal and the Groot Drakenstein Terminal. Kids allowed.
Good for age: 18+
Duration: -
Franschhoek is situated an hour’s drive from Cape Town. It’s easy to self-drive in and around town, but remember that drinking and driving is illegal. A guided tour – or ticket for the Franschhoek Wine Tram – is a better way to sip, savour and explore in the valley. The town itself is small enough to explore on foot.
While it’s accessible as a day trip, if time allows, it’s worth spending a few nights in the valley. You have two broad choices on where to stay: in the village, or on one of the surrounding wine estates. Accommodation in the town puts dozens of restaurants and boutiques within walking distance, so a good option if you’re not self-driving, or want to explore more than relax. Wine farm accommodation is ideal if you’re planning lazy days by the pool, with the occasional outing.
Franschhoek is a wonderful destination year-round. In winter the mountains are snow-capped and fires crackle in cosy tasting rooms, while summer brings sultry sunny days perfect for the poolside.
Though the valley gets busy in the peak summer months (November – February) it rarely feels crowded. Be aware that some restaurants close over winter.
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
Cape Town
Price ZAR 695
Min age 0
Rating 4.86 / 5 [1669 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Cape Town
Price ZAR 3,599
Min age 18
Rating 4.96 / 5 [639 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Cape Town
Price ZAR 695
Min age 4
Rating 4.62 / 5 [411 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Cape Town
Price ZAR 1,700
Min age 2
Rating 4.58 / 5 [216 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Cape Town
Price ZAR 1,550
Min age 2
Rating 4.46 / 5 [113 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Western Cape, South Africa
A vibrant, multicultural city with dramatic scenery, adrenaline adventure galore, Africa’s best art scene, golden beaches world-class wine regions and outstanding gastronomy. All in the shadows of the mighty Table Mountain.
