Surrounding Area | Franschhoek
It’s wine time! Franschhoek is the ultimate hub for wine lovers, and trust us, you’re in for a real treat. Sip your way through award-winning vinos in a valley framed by the majestic Franschhoek mountains, widely regarded as South Africa’s wine capital. With its French heritage, rolling vineyards and world-class vintages, this charming town promises a wine-tasting experience that’s hard to beat.
Here are our top nine wine farms to visit while you’re in the Cape Winelands:
Step onto the grounds of Babylonstoren and you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a living postcard. One of the oldest Dutch farms in the Cape (est. 1692), this estate effortlessly blends centuries-old charm with modern-day creativity in the best possible way. The working farm is known for its exceptional gardens, artisanal food and of course, a wine range that celebrates the unique Simonsberg terroir.
Wines are made using a mix of cutting-edge techniques and age-old methods in everything from stainless steel tanks and oak barrels to amphorae clay pots and concrete egg-shaped fermenters. The result? A beautifully curated range of crisp whites, smooth reds, a Provençal-style rosé and their signature Cap Classique, affectionately named “Sprankel.”
Tastings are held in a sleek glass-walled room next to the wine cellar, with panoramic views of Babylonstoren Hill and the Banghoek Mountains. You can easily spend hours here. Wander the gardens, browse the bakery and farm shop or linger over a long lunch at one of their on-site eateries. It’s peaceful, polished and family-friendly—ideal for a full-day wine outing.
Established in 1685, Boschendal is one of the oldest wine estates in South Africa and it wears its legacy proudly across its 1,800 hectares of vineyards, orchards and oak-lined avenues and views of the Simonsberg and Drakenstein mountains that stretch for days.
Expect award-winning wines made with care using a blend of traditional methods and modern techniques. Their diverse portfolio includes classic Chardonnays, spicy Shirazes, bold Cabernet Sauvignons and a standout South African Pinotage. Tastings are hosted at the Cellar Door, where you can sip your way through curated flights with options for cheese, charcuterie or chocolate pairings.
Beyond the tasting room, Boschendal offers picnics under the trees, mountain biking trails, guided hikes, horse rides through the vineyards and a working farm that adds a wholesome, earthy charm to the experience. Boschendal strikes that perfect balance between laid-back and luxe.
Tucked between rolling vineyards and the Simonsberg mountains, Vrede en Lust feels like it’s been plucked from a wine-lover’s dream. Founded in 1688, this family-run estate has aged as gracefully as its wine by blending heritage with a fresh, modern edge.
Their wines are easy to love—whether you’re sipping the crisp Anni Sauvignon Blanc, the crowd-favourite Jess Rosé or one of their elegant red blends that just hit the spot. Tastings are guided by the estate’s famous “Red Ladies” (their friendly, all-female ambassador team), known as the Red Ladies, on a spacious terrace with unbelievable views of the vineyards and mountains.
If you’re feeling peckish, head over to the on-site Lust Bistro for fresh pastries, wood-fired pizzas or a tapas-and-wine pairing. Peaceful and serene, this spot’s great for intimate outings, groups or just a lazy afternoon with a glass in hand.
La Motte is where Cape Dutch architecture, fine wine and cultural heritage all meet beneath the Wemmershoek mountains. Established in the late 17th century, this historic estate is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, art, culture and of course, exceptional wine.
Step into their elegant state-of-the-art tasting room where you’ll sample a stellar selection of wines ranging from their easy-drinking Sauvignon Blanc to the acclaimed Pierneef Syrah Viognier. Each wine is an elegant expression of the Franschhoek terroir and is made using time-honoured techniques alongside modern innovations.
Beyond the tasting room, La Motte is also home to an art gallery, a beautiful farm shop and guided historic walks that tell the story of Franschhoek’s rich heritage.
A visit to Grande Provence is a full sensory experience—from the bold wines to the modern art that lines the tasting room walls. Established over 300 years ago, the estate combines a rich heritage with a strikingly modern aesthetic and offers a curated selection of award-winning wines, best enjoyed in their elegant tasting room or lush gardens.
Expect robust reds, crisp whites and their standout Méthode Cap Classique, all carefully made to reflect the terroir of the Franschhoek Valley. The tasting room is a mix of rustic elegance and modern flair, with large windows overlooking vineyards and serene gardens. Their sculpture garden and on-site gallery are also worth exploring. This haven is a must-visit for lovers of wine, design and all things beautiful.
Leopard's Leap Family Vineyards offers an inviting and family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Franschhoek. Known for producing a diverse range of quality wines that cater to various palates, this estate is perfect for both casual sippers and seasoned connoisseurs.
Their modern tasting room provides interactive experiences, including food and wine pairings and engaging cooking demonstrations. The lively setting, complemented by views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains, makes it a popular destination for visitors.
A collaboration between South Africa's Rupert family and France's Rothschild dynasty is as elegant as you’d expect. The estate focuses on crafting three distinct wines: a single varietal Chardonnay (Baroness Nadine), a flagship Bordeaux blend (Baron Edmond) and a classic red blend (Classique), each reflecting meticulous craftsmanship.
Tastings are conducted in a sleek, glass-walled space overlooking vineyards and mountains, offering a serene environment to appreciate the wines. The on-site restaurant provides a refined dining experience, with dishes thoughtfully paired to complement the estate's wine selection.
Specialising exclusively in Méthode Cap Classique (MCC), South Africa's esteemed sparkling wine, Le Lude Estate is a haven for bubbly enthusiasts. The estate is dedicated to the art of bottle-fermented sparkling wines, showcasing exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
The tasting room offers an elegant setting to sample their acclaimed Cap Classique, with options to pair the bubbly with classic French canapés or petit fours. The on-site Orangerie Restaurant provides a refined dining experience, emphasising French-inspired cuisine. It’s elegant, romantic and undeniably special.
Carved into the Franschhoek mountainside, Haute Cabrière is renowned for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir blends. The estate offers a harmonious blend of heritage and innovation, providing visitors with a comprehensive wine experience.
The tasting room, located in an underground cellar, provides an intimate setting to explore their wine range. The on-site restaurant serves French-inspired dishes designed to pair seamlessly with their wines, all while offering panoramic views of the Franschhoek Valley.
We hope this list has you dreaming of wine-soaked afternoons and mountain views. After a full day of sipping your way through Franschhoek’s finest, there’s nothing better than sinking into plush pillows and putting your feet up. Luckily, our beds are pure heaven for post-wine unwinding.
Franschhoek Boutique Hotel | reservations@lionroars.com | +27 (0)21 424 1530
Central Reservations
Tel:
+27 21 424 1530
Email:
reservations@lionroars.com
Franschhoek Boutique Hotel
Tel:
+27 21 876 2453
Email:
fbhotel@lionroars.com
