Franschhoek is a small town in the South African Province Western Cape. With a population of approximately 15.000, Franschhoek belongs to the municipality Stellenbosch and the district Cape Winelands.
The name Franschhoek means the French Corner and reflects the heritage of the valley. The town was founded in 1688 by French Huguenots that settled in this area, 60 kilometers away from Cape Town.
Among the 200 Huguenots were a couple of winemakers that soon realized that the area was ideal for wine. Today the Franschhoek wine valley is one of the most important wine region in South Africa.
About 50 wine estates belong to the Franschhoek wineland and the wine route is definitely worth a visit. Many Franschhoek wine estates offer a tasting or tours through their vineyards. One can also experience the Franschhoek winelands with a tour in the wine tram that takes you through the historical valley.
One of the well know wine estates is Môreson, where you can not only enjoy a beautiful Franschhoek wine, but also stay for a delicious meal.
Information about the Franschhoek wine region:
Country: | South Africa |
Province: | Western Cape |
District: | Cape Winelands |
Area: | 3,3 km² |