Franschhoek #HeritageTourism

Franschhoek

Location of Franschhoek in South Africa.

Upon arrival in this small town in the Western Cape, I was immediately taken aback by the “home sweet home”-feeling. Settled between the mountains, Franschhoek offers breath-taking scenery, world class cuisine, warm hospitality and the finest wines typify the Franschhoek Valley.

The vineyard-covered mountain slopes were settled by the French Huguenots 300 years ago, and their influences remain firmly in the town’s French food and wine culture. Apart from the excellent wine estates in the district of Franschhoek that include La Motte-, Moreson- and Maison Wine Estates, the town has become known as the food- and wine capital of the Western Province and South Africa. 

Excellent wines can be sampled in Franschhoek!

Cultural attractions within the Franschhoek area include: The Boschendal Manor House, a Cape Dutch building dating back to 1812, showcasing the history of the French Huguenots, a must see site when history is one of your passions. This is also one of the original farm houses that were built by the French Huguenots. Another cultural attraction is the Huguenot Monument and Museum which commemorates South African Huguenot Heritage, this monument is also the focus point of people retracing their family roots if the families surname has a French background for example; ‘Du Toit.’

The Boschendal Manor House one of only a few originsl farmhouses that where built by the French Huguenots in 1812.

The Huguenot Monument and Museum!

Another fascinating attraction is the Solms Delta Museum van de Caab showcases the Cape winelands history since pre-colonial times. This museum covers a wide historical period in its exhibitions from the Stone Age 5 000 years ago to the influences of the Dutch East India Company, colonialism, slavery and “apartheid”, right up to the release of former President, Nelson Mandela, from the Drakenstein Prison in 1990. This museum is still an open archaeological site.

The Solms Delta Museum van de Caab!

Natural attractions in the region include the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve, this 1759 ha reserve, adjoining the Hawequas- and Nuweberg state forests, consists of rugged, mountainous terrain with its own unique diversity of fauna and flora. Another natural attraction or sight I personally found mesmerising was the Franschhoek Pass; this is one of the most scenic mountain passes in the country, with lovely views over the Valley in which Franschhoek is situated. The pass gives you a clear view of how the old town became a modern city. The combination of the natural surroundings and the buildings, old and new, makes this a view you will never forget.

The spectacular view of Franschhoek from the Franschhoek Pass...

I feel the town is more suited for the people who have a passion for history, heritage and culture. The town mainly attracts more mature tourist. The lack of social gathering places and adventurous attractions will create a sense of “boring” among young people. This town is well suited for national but also international tourists.

Till next time...

C.R.