By Prashirwin Naidu

Franschhoek, a town steeped in history and charm, is one of South Africa’s most scenic and culturally rich destinations. Its name, “French Corner,” traces back to the late 1600s when French Huguenots fled religious persecution and settled in this valley. They brought their winemaking expertise, laying the foundation for what is now one of the country’s most celebrated wine regions. Beyond its vineyards, Franschhoek is also a haven for fine dining, luxury stays, and breathtaking landscapes, making it the perfect destination for a weekend escape from the hustle and bustle, especially if you’re from Johannesburg, like me.

Driving into Franschhoek was nothing short of a dream, made even more
exhilarating by the fleet of stunning Audi Q7 and Q8 models at our disposal. We
glided effortlessly along the winding roads in the V8 Audi SQ7, with the mountains
and vineyards providing a picture-perfect backdrop.

Along the way, our first stop was Chorus, a restaurant renowned for pushing the
boundaries of fine dining. The ambience was inviting, and the menu featured a creative selection of dishes. We sampled a variety of mini vegan plates, each delivering bold, well-balanced flavours. While they were beautifully crafted and full of character, I couldn’t help but crave something heartier and more filling.

As the sun dipped behind the mountains, we arrived at Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa, a secluded gem nestled among rolling vineyards. Once part of a historic farm, the hotel has been transformed into a luxurious retreat while preserving its classic Cape Dutch architecture. The blend of old-world charm and modern elegance made it the perfect place to unwind.

Accommodation
My room was impressively spacious, featuring two plush single couches, a grand
king-sized bed, and a clean yet sophisticated design. While it wasn’t overflowing with high-tech gadgets, it had everything I needed — including a trusty coffee machine. The bathroom also embraced a simple yet stylish aesthetic, with sleek finishes and subtle touches of luxury.

Dining Experience
Once I had settled in, my appetite returned in full force. I headed downstairs to the
hotel’s in-house restaurant, where I joined my colleagues for an exquisite dining
experience. The starter surprised me—leaning towards the sweeter side, it almost
felt like a dessert.

However, the highlight of the meal was my vegan risotto. A plate of creamy goodness, the risotto was visually stunning and packed with flavour. The deep-fried cauliflower added a crispy contrast to the soft, rich rice, while tangy sauces infused the dish with an extra layer of depth. Every bite was indulgent, and before I knew it, I was scraping the plate, wishing for just a little more.

Just as I caught my breath, dessert arrived. While it wasn’t traditional chocolate, it
had a similar richness that intrigued me. The set menu was well thought out and left
a lasting impression.

With a full belly and a happy heart, I took a long, warm shower before retreating to
the inviting bed. Franschhoek’s nights can be chilly, but the cosiness of the hotel
made it all the more comfortable. As I drifted off, I couldn’t help but appreciate the
beauty of this place—its history, charm, and, most importantly, the food that brought it all together. Yummy!