An Inisght into Gregg Wallace in South Africa
For those of you who have tuned into ITV1 for the past couple of Tuesday nights will have seen Gregg Wallace excitedly explore some of South Africa’s most beautiful areas. Whilst the first episode focused on safari in the Eastern Cape, it was the second episode and his venture into Franschoek that caught the eye.
The winelands are the perfect way to end a South Africa itinerary © Babylonstoren
Whilst a safari and Cape Town itinerary can be a full on and busy schedule, heading to the winelands is all about relaxation and indulgence. Renowned for its incredible food and award-winning wine, the ‘French Corner’ of South Africa is worth adding to any South Africa itinerary. Unfortunately, we only got a glimpse into this quaint little town on Gregg’s show, but here we will explore a three of our favourite places to visit in the winelands.
Located in between Cape Town and Franschoek, Babylonstoren is a running farmstead that has been renovated to encompass two restaurants, multiple accommodation areas, spas, swimming pools and a winery. If you want to spend the night here, the brand-new fynbos suites are spacious, airy and modern whilst the cottages are cosy and intimate. If you don’t have the time to overnight, or want something more central in Franschoek, then a day visit here is a must. The beautiful cuisine served in the Greenhouse restaurant or at Babel is all fresh from the gardens and will leave your taste buds tantalised.
Fynbos Cottage in Babylonstoren © Babylonstoren
In Franschoek itself is Leeu House which sits next to one of South Africa’s best restaurants: Protégé. Combining traditional African cuisine with a French twist allows you to sample some of the best food and drink you will ever taste. Whilst Leeu House is on the Franschoek High street, Leeu Estate is a ten-minute drive from here, but is the home to the Leeu vineyards. Apart from the beautiful accommodation options at the Estate, it is their wine tasting area that attracts the headlines. Whether you stay at the Estate or the House, you can enjoy a complimentary wine tasting session where you will sample some beautiful wines created straight from the grapes of the vineyard.
Leeu Estate © Leeu
If opulence and lavishness are your favoured things in life, then look no further than La Residence. Aside from the rolling gardens and vineyards that surround the property, La Residence is by far the most luxurious option in Franschoek. Each room has its own unique style fitted with four poster beds, lounge areas, bathrooms bigger than one could imaging and balconies from which you can enjoy the country views from, it does not get much better than this. Dining under crystal chandeliers you will taste beautiful cuisine and superb wine, an evening at the chef’s table is a must for those wishing for an intimate and personal experience.
The Chambre Bleu at La Residence © The Royal Portfolio
We realise that this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Franschoek region, as other options like Mont Rochelle, La Petit Ferme and La Cle all have their own unique style and depending on your holiday needs, one will suit you more than the other. With so many options, it is always best to chat to one of our Africa experts who would be more than happy to help you plan an unforgettable South Africa itinerary.
