Franschhoek

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Tightly hemmed in by mountains, the Franschoek valley is named after the French Huguenots who fled religious persecution to the Cape in 1688. They brought with them a sound knowledge of viniculture and settled down to make wine in the 'French Glen' where the estates and many families still have French names.

There is just one main street, lined with wine estates, antique shops, cafés and restaurants. At the far end the impressive Huguenot Memorial dominates the avenue, with the museum set in rose gardens by a peaceful lily pond.

Franschhoek is the ideal area for a day of estate touring and wine tasting, and most farms warmly welcome visitors to sample some of South Africa's top wines. There is a wide selection of wines, from superb whites (Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon and Chenin Blanc) to rich reds (Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinot Noir and Merlot).

Franschhoek is also known as the gourmet capital of the Cape, and the small town features a number of acclaimed restaurants with everything from delicious Cape country fare to sublime French cuisine.

In the Franschhoek valley and surrounds there is no shortage of luxury accommodation. There are a number of thatched villas, French-style country guest houses, restored manor houses and lodges to choose from to make your stay in the winelands a comfortable one.

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