Natural Synergy at Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa
The grey, craggly, crevices amaze any mind that gazes upon the Hottentot-Holland mountains. Framed by aging oak trees with dancing leaves, the hotel interiors of the Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa mirror the natural beauty of the surrounding world in the floors, walls and soft furnishings.
Perfect synergy is found in the views from our hotel room. As the sun sets, a cool shadow creeps over the valley like a blanket being pulled over the village. Stars begin to rise above the mountains uncovering the twinkling lights of Franschhoek.
It’s these very lights that influence me to pivot from lounging in bed, to stepping out to enjoy dinner and the last of the summer air in town.
Exploring Franschhoek from the Hotel
An hour earlier Al-John left to attend a wedding. This means I was reliant on the hotel shuttle. For R150pp into town (it’s only 3kms), it’s on the expensive side, however, it’s guaranteed – unlike Ubers which are not prevalent in the valley.
It was the perfect summer evening; no wind, warm – one that I thought I could ignore, but I was wrong so into Franschhoek I ventured. Oku was my choice of dining for the evening and it was excellent. (They also had space, which was lucky as Franschhoek was fully booked during high season.)
Upon my return, I was greeted by the security guards and night staff of the Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa before making my way up to my suite through their long, arched passageway. Removing my makeup, I stepping out onto the balcony. Warm tiles under my feet, remnant of the hot afternoon sun, feeling safe and secure I sat and listened to the orchestra of crickets, frogs, faint voices, a radio…the night time sounds of the world famous valley.
Days at Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa
In the morning the block out curtains did a stellar job, however, my curiosity got the best of me and I peeked through the gap. Soft blue skies, dewy roses, ghostly chimney-smoke rose from the still treetops as the sun began to rise behind the mountains. Again, I made use of the balcony chairs and watched the sun rise above the valley.
Breakfast is served in the open, downstairs dining room. Claiming a table next to the glass doors so we could take in the mountains, we tucked into a wide spread of fruits, yoghurts, cereals, cheeses – the usual 5 star spread.
What I really had my eye on was the eggs benedict with gluten-free toast (on request). They kitchen forgot to double toast the bread, however, they kindly made my eggs without the yolks. The light, bright room was our choice as we prefer an air-conditioned dining room. The patio was full though of guests enjoying the mild autumn weather.
In the afternoon, we took advantage of the large swimming pool. Apart from the two “sisters from Joburg” (as I dubbed them) who looked like they’d survived a small car accident and drank as much wine to make the unsubstantiated assumption, the hotel is a family environment that saw young families enjoy their afternoon at the swimming pool.
In the evening, we visited Frank’s Corner in town, the latest edition to the Franschhoek restaurant scene. Before heading into town though, we popped in to visit the gorgeous restaurant at the hotel. In hindsight, it was an oversight not to visit – and a good reason to return. (I have a feeling it may have been closed this night, but would need to check.)
Reasons to Stay at the Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa
There are just somethings that South African hotels do better than anyone other type of accommodation – and that’s hotel security, fresh crisp linen and surrounding grounds. The Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa checked all three of these priorities.
If you’re staying for a wedding and are looking for reliable transport, assistance on hand, convenience of meals (room service is available too), spacious rooms and clean, modern amenities, then the hotel is the one for you.
They also have an Winter Special to keep in mind for R7065 for 2 people for 2 nights:
• 2-night stay in the beautiful winelands including breakfast
• 3 Course Wine pairing dinner for two, on the first or second night
• 60 min Swedish Massage for Two
• Hop-on-Hop-off Wine Tram Experience, for two
• Complimentary bubbly and cheese platter on arrival
• Complimentary room upgrade, subject to availability
• Romantic Turndown service
We loved to wander around the gardens and observe the small details of nature, take in the peace and quiet of Franschhoek while still enjoying wine tasting in the valley. Keep the hotel in mind for a beautiful weekend away in Franschhoek.
