Botswana Safaris

One of our African travel experts, recently visited the gorgeous Franschhoek Country House & Villas. This beautiful 5-star boutique hotel offers a world-class experience situated on the outskirts of the Franschhoek valley. Thanks to its prime location, the hotel serves as an ideal base for those eager to discover the Cape Winelands, enjoy world-class cuisine, and experience the area’s unique attractions. See below their first-hand experience.

Visit Franschhoek Country House with Safari365
Beautiful gardens surround the villas at this 5-star boutique hotel.

Location of Franschhoek Country House & Villas

Franschhoek Country House & Villas is located only 45 minutes from Cape Town city centre and 50 minutes from Cape Town International Airport. We followed the N1 towards Paarl, took the R45 turn-off onto Huguenot Road, and arrived at our home for the night. The hotel’s location allows guests to explore nearby wine farms, and a free shuttle service within the Franschhoek area makes transportation convenient. The provision of a day room for late checkouts and Monneaux Restaurant’s extended kitchen hours for late arrivals reflect a thoughtful approach to guest needs.

Upon our arrival, we were welcomed at reception and escorted to our room. We stayed in their luxury room, which is located separately from the other rooms and offers slightly more space, including a lounge area. We also had a private patio overlooking the courtyard with fountains and the lavender gardens below.

Once we were settled, we headed off to their on-site spa facility. They offer everything from massages, reflexology, facials, manicures, pedicures, and signature treatments. My husband and I indulged in a Top 2 Toe treatment, which was one of the best spa treatments I have ever had.

Luxury Room interior at the boutique hotel, showcasing a cozy fireplace and plush bed.
The interior of the Luxury Room with cosy fireplace.

Dining

In the evening, we made our way to the resident Monneaux restaurant at the hotel, which was truly an exceptional fine dining experience. I had the pleasure of savouring the deboned beef short rib, accompanied by butternut purée, seasonal home-grown vegetables, and dashi jus – a truly sublime experience! Meanwhile, my husband found his lemongrass-glazed pork belly so irresistibly delicious that he was hesitant to share even a single bite. The majority of fresh produce used in the restaurant is cultivated on-site in their gardens.

Inside view of the hotel's Monneaux Restaurant, showcasing its elegant dining atmosphere.
The incredible interior of the Monneaux restaurant.

Besides the incredible restaurant and spa facilities, the hotel also offers two pools, with one of them being heated, as well as the option of a poolside lunch from the restaurant. For more adventurous guests, rent a bicycle and cycle through the charming town of Franschhoek or visit a few of the exceptional wine farms in the region.

Accommodation at Franschhoek Country House & Villas

The hotel offers 6 standard rooms, 5 luxury rooms, 2 garden cottages, and 12 Villa Suites, with most of the rooms featuring an open fireplace. All the en-suite rooms offer all the expected luxuries and amenities, with most rooms providing private balconies, catering to different preferences and family sizes. The availability of pull-out beds and garden cottages adds flexibility for families.

A panoramic view of the pool area, garden and lounges amongst the lush green garden.
The stunning views of the pool area amongst the lush gardens.

Who is it suitable for?

I would highly recommend this property for couples, families, fine dining enthusiasts, wine enthusiasts, extended stay guests (especially in the Villa Suites), late arrivals, and departure guests. The highlight of our overnight stay would definitely be the Villa-Style layout of the hotel, our incredibly spacious and inviting accommodation, the Monneaux Restaurant, and the perfect proximity to the Cape Winelands.

Thank you

I would like to say a huge thank you to Carmen, who personally hosted us. The personal touches from Henry providing us with a site inspection, and Lizette’s thorough induction, contributed to our incredible stay. We will definitely be back!