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FRANSCHHOEK

FRANSCHHOEK

DISCOVER FRANSCHHOEK

The currency of Franschhoek is that of wine, gourmet cuisine and luxury hospitality, and the Leeu Collection endeavours to offer its guests the finest in each of these. The Leeu Collection’s portfolio currently comprises one five-star premium and two five-star boutique properties in South Africa’s winelands: Leeu Estates, a 24-room country house and boutique winery in the Franschhoek valley; Leeu House, an exclusive hotel in the heart of Franschhoek village with 12-rooms and Suite; and Le Quartier Français, a romantic 25-room hotel also located in the village. Three historic farms – Dieu Donné, Klein Dassenberg and Von Ortloff – were joined to create Leeu Estates, with its exquisite, restored 19th-century Manor House. These farms featured prominently in the traditions of the Franschhoek valley. The first acquisition outside of South Africa was Linthwaite House, a 36-room country retreat overlooking Windermere in England’s scenic Lake District, followed by Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Resorts Collection in Florence, Italy (opening 2024). Both the historic centre of Florence and the Lake District are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines’ premium wines, handcrafted by dynamic husband-and-wife winemaking team Chris and Andrea Mullineux, are proudly served across all of the Leeu Collection’s hotels and restaurants.

GOURMET CAPITAL

Located in the scenic Cape winelands, Franschhoek is a valley of fine wine, gourmet cuisine and luxury hospitality. Franschhoek is a member of the Délice Network of Good Food Cities of the World. At the heart of the valley, with its Cape Dutch heritage and strong French influences, is the village of Franschhoek with its award-winning restaurants, craft breweries, chocolatiers, art galleries, boutiques and speciality stores.

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VALLEY OF WINE

The farms on the wine route in the valley, many with their own restaurants and other attractions, give a taste of the culture, history and passion that have come together here. Franschhoek also has its own Cap Classique route, linking Méthode Cap Classique producers in the valley, which is well known for its sparkling wine. The Franschhoek Wine Tram is a wine tasting first in the world.

OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE

Franschhoek is an hour’s drive from Cape Town. Outdoor activities include hiking, mountain biking and fly fishing. Within easy driving distance from Franschhoek are pristine beaches, golf courses and some of the best land-based whale watching in Hermanus.

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THE FRENCH CORNER

The Franschhoek valley is surrounded on three sides by majestic mountain ranges and has a fascinating history. The valley was originally known as Olifantshoek (Elephant’s Corner) after the huge herds that roamed the area and whose annual migration wore away a mountain path known by the locals as Elephant’s Pass. Today, it is the famous Franschhoek Pass with its breathtakingly beautiful views over the valley. Due to the strong French influence on the valley, the settlement became known as Le Quartier Français (the French Quarter) and, later, as Franschhoek (French Corner).

THE HUGUENOT HERITAGE

Settled in 1688 by the French Huguenots, who were granted farmland on their arrival, Franschhoek has retained its Gallic charm and character. The Huguenot Monument at the top end of the village honours their heritage and the Huguenot Memorial Museum next to it is filled with the history of these settlers, who had a profound influence on the viticulture and farming skills of the valley.

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