Franschhoek Country House & Villas

Flanked by the majestic Huguenot Mountains, the Franschhoek Country House is about an hour's drive from Cape Town. Situated in the heart of the wine-route, Franschhoek has plenty to offer. Wine-tasting on the farms in the area, or in the neighbouring towns of Stellenbosch and Paarl, is a popular tourist pastime. Cape Dutch architecture, gentle walks in the valley and tales of its Huguenot heritage are all part of Franschhoek's charm.

Visit the Huguenot Monument and learn of the families who settled on land in the Cape given to them by Governor Simon van der Stel. With them, they brought their in expertise agriculture and wine-making. The wine cultivars introduced by the Huguenots have today matured into a complete range of renowned quality red and still white wines and port. Relax and enjoy the beauty of the valley in the comfort of the Franschhoek Country House & Villas.

This restored manor house and former perfumery, dating back to 1890, is situated on the outskirts of Franschhoek, arguably the most picturesque village in the Cape wine lands. Surrounded by enchanting vineyards and surrounded by majestic mountains, the Franschhoek Country House & Villas is a mere hour’s drive from Cape Town, making this the perfect getaway for anyone visiting the Western Cape.

The Franschhoek is an historic residence in the centre of what many regard as the most picturesque village in the Cape winelands. The village of Franschhoek is a wine and food lover's delight and a haven for artists.

Elegantly restored in the Cape Huguenot tradition, The Franschhoek lies in the heart of the village so is just a few minutes walk from numerous character-filled, boutique-style shops and several excellent restaurants (three of which are rated within the top ten in South Africa).

The new main building houses the guest lounges, new restaurant and wine cellar. Villa residents are offered the opportunity to either dine in the beautifully decorated dining room upstairs, or a select few have the opportunity to dine in the exclusive cellar.

Lunch is served on the magnificent fountain terrace and dinner in the relaxed, yet elegant dining room.

The cellar is stocked with a carefully selected range of Franschhoek and other exclusive wines from the surrounding region.

Dinner is an experience with a difference as platters of exciting dishes are served to share. Guests can choose from a selection of platters such as sashimi,  oysters, meat and game, selected cheeses and delectable desserts. Guests also have the opportunity to eat in the in-house Monneaux Restaurant, rated as  one of South Africa’s best restaurants. This is where Chef Adrian Buchanan serves French inspired dishes that are as superbly prepared as they are exquisitely presented. His wine list emphasises some of the top wines of the region.

Chef Adrian’s menu favourites include the Corgette Tarts with a mint and apple salad for starters, a Duck Breast with Truffle Mash as a main course, and his own rendition of the classic Pecan Nut Pie for dessert. For those who prefer red meat there is a succulent Peppered Beef Fillet with hummus and pommes frittes, and from the ocean a Grilled Line Fish in a lemon-grass emulsion with wilted bokchoi, topped with a Macadamia nut crush.

The Monneaux Restaurant is listed as one of the ‘Top 10 Restaurants in South Africa’ by Eat Out for the year 2001 and 2002, and was voted one of the ‘Top 100 Restaurants in South Africa’ by Wine Magazine for 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004! Monneaux Restaurant was also awarded the acclaimed American Express Platinum Fine Dining Award for 2004.

While the dinner menu is presented in a contemporary fine dining style, lunch is presented in a lighter, more bistro-like approach – think smoked duck breast with a feta and watermelon salad!

A complimentary sherry can be enjoyed in one of the guest lounges alongside a crackling log-fire, creating a welcoming atmosphere in winter. Attention to detail and friendly personal service completes your experience at this fine country retreat.