Franschhoek Offers Classic Styles In South Africa

Nestled in a fertile valley and ringed by majesticculinary delights, and eight of South Africa's "Top
mountains, Franschhoek may appear to be100 Restaurants" are in Franschhoek - little
merely a picturesque rural village, yet this is thewonder that Franschhoek is referred to as the
food and wine heartland of South Africa and oneGourmet Capital of the country. From light meals
of the premier destinations in the world ofusing the delicious fresh produce of the valley, to
wine.The spectacular scenery of this beautifulthe reassuring familiarity of traditional Cape
valley, where vineyards stretch across thecountry fare, to the exciting indulgence of
mountain slopes and mighty oaks tower overworld-class French cuisine - Franschhoek offers a
original Cape Dutch farmhouses, nurtures thismeal for every taste and a menu for every
peaceful settlement that tells a colorfulpocket. 28 excellent restaurants offer wonderful
history.Historyhospitality and great ambience - and, naturally,
When the Edict of Nantes was revoked in Franceeach meal is complemented by one of the
in 1685, hundreds of Huguenots fled theirfantastic local wines.A Visitor's paradise
homeland as Protestantism was outlawed. OfFranschhoek not only offers some of the world's
these, 227 arrived at the Cape of Good Hope,finest wining and dining, but also a choice of
seeking refuge. Simon van der Stel, the Dutchsuperb accommodation. Luxurious small hotels,
governor at the time, led them over what ischarming guesthouses, stylish self-catering
today the Helshoogte Mountain into the valleycottages and beautiful B&B's will tempt you to
beyond and granted many of them farm landstay in this quaint village. The character of
there. The valley was first called OlifantshoekFranschhoek is reflected in the hospitality of the
(Elephant Corner), reminiscent of the vastfriendly people who live here, and the scenic
numbers of elephants that roamed here freely,vineyards, spectacular views and awe-inspiring
but with the settlement of the French Huguenotsmountain landscape have long since enchanted the
the name was soon changed to Franschhoekhearts of tourists and locals alike.A walk down the
(French Corner).Their heritage is preserved in themain street may well take you a day. Coffee
Huguenot Monument, which was erected in 1938shops and restaurants offer taste bud
and proudly stands at the top of the village. Thetemptations, shops and galleries provide a
engravings speak of their religious persecution,wonderful choice of antiques and a world-class
their flight to South Africa, the strength of theircollection of artworks, and crafts and curio shops
belief and the influence they had on thesell souvenirs, inviting you to take just a small
development of the area. Each original Huguenotpart of this unforgettable village home with you.
farm has a unique story to tell and their historiesThere are also specialty shops such as cheese
are chronicled in the nearby museum.Todayshops and a chocolate factory.The spectacular
Franschhoek is one of the top five touristmountains surrounding Franschhoek provide the
destinations in South Africa, and an excellent baseperfect setting for numerous walking trails for the
from which to explore the rest of the astoundingmore energetic visitors. The La Motte Forestry
world of the Winelands. The Franschhoek Valley isStation offers hiking, horse riding, fly-fishing and
especially known for its tranquil beauty andcycling. Trout fishing is possible in various streams
relaxed atmosphere, the perfect setting toand dams surrounding the village. Experience a
thoroughly enjoy the top class wines produced inwine tour with a difference - on horseback or in a
this area.The World of Winescarriage. Local tour guides are available to advise
More than 300 years ago, the French Huguenotsand help you to explore all that the region has to
saw the potential of this fertile ground and beganoffer.If you happen to visit Franschhoek during
a wine industry that lives on to this day. Today,our winter, remember the 14th of July. This is
members of the Vignerons de FranschhoekBastille Day, when the village celebrates its French
(Winegrower's association) continue in this nobleheritage with a wine and gourmet fair that
tradition and produce some of South Africa's topattracts visitors from near and far.All in all, the
wines.From crisp, fruity whites to rich, warm reds,Franschhoek Valley is a truly special destination.
Franschhoek offers all the noble cultivars andWith the breathtaking scenery, rich cultural
classic styles. The valley is especially renownedheritage, warm and friendly people and an
for its exquisite Cap Classique sparkling wines andunrivaled wining and dining experience, what better
ports.The Franschhoek Valley boastsplace to spend some time than in
approximately 20 wine estates, many of whichFranschhoek?Gerald Crawford was born in South
have retained their original French names andAfrica, studied electronics, telecommunication,
lovely Cape Dutch farmsteads. Small boutiqueeco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught
wineries appeal to those in search of somethingresponsible tourism in South Africa. If you have
unique, while larger estates offer cellar tours andany questions or comments please e-mail me on.
conduct tastings.The Gourmet CapitalE-mail Address:
Franschhoek's finer tastes don't end with wine.southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.
Leading chefs create internationally acclaimed