23 Unmissable Things to Do in Franschhoek - Your Ultimate Guide

If you are a car enthusiast, the Franschhoek Motor Museum is an absolute must-see during your stay in Franschhoek. This incredible collection includes over 220 vintage and modern vehicles - each with its own history and charm. Here you will find rare and exotic vehicles that have been lovingly restored to their former glory. The museum is by appointment only, so plan your visit in advance. While you're in the area, be sure to visit the nearby wineries and experience the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding Cape Winelands.

If you are a nature lover, Jonkershoek Nature Reserve in Franschhoek should be at the top of your to-do list! This reserve combines stunning natural scenery with a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and mountain biking. You can hike through the fynbos and indigenous forest and see the incredible birdlife.

If you're looking for a one-stop store for all things food and wine, the Spice Route Destination in Franschhoek is a must! This vibrant and trendy spot offers an array of world-class restaurants, artisan chocolatiers, craft breweries, a distillery and even a glassblowing studio. Be sure to sample the award-winning wines at Spice Route Winery, indulge in some handmade chocolates at DV Café, or peek into the studios of local artists and craftspeople.

A visit to Franschhoek is incomplete without seeing the magnificent Vergelegen Wine Estate. The estate features historic buildings, a biodiversity display garden and a winery with world-renowned wines. It is said that Nelson Mandela chose this winery to host heads of state during the 1999 Rugby World Cup. An interesting fact: there is a centuries-old camphor tree on the estate, said to have been planted by Jan van Riebeeck himself! Don't miss out on this gem. And while you're in the area, be sure to check out the nearby Huguenot Monument.

Get up close and personal with some of South Africa's most magnificent birds of prey at Eagle Encounters in Franschhoek. Not only will you have the unique opportunity to interact with birds such as eagles, owls and hawks, but you will also learn about conservation efforts to protect these majestic creatures.

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Exotic Animal World (formerly Butterfly World)! This fantastic attraction is the perfect place for animal lovers to get up close and personal with some of the world's most exotic and beautiful creatures. Here you'll find a variety of tropical birds, reptiles, insects, and mammals, including meerkats and lemurs.

If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable cultural experience, then a visit to the Dylan Lewis Studio & Sculpture Garden in Franschhoek is an absolute must! Here you will find a stunning collection of sculptures to admire amidst the picturesque landscape of the Franschhoek Valley. Not only can you admire the beautiful works of art here, but you can also meet the talented artist Dylan Lewis in person. And if you're lucky, you might even be able to watch him at work in his studio! Wear comfortable shoes, because you'll be walking on uneven terrain through the sculpture garden. And if you need refreshment, there's a café on site where you can grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee. Located just a short drive from the center of Franschhoek, Dylan Lewis Studio & Sculpture Garden is the perfect addition to any trip to the area.

If you are looking for a unique and fascinating experience in Franschhoek, be sure to visit The Alpaca Loom Coffee Shop and Weaving Studio. Not only can you enjoy a delicious cup of coffee at this cozy coffee shop, but you can also watch the talented weavers at work as they create beautiful textiles and garments. The alpacas themselves are also a joy to watch and pet! Also, enjoy the breathtaking view of the Franschhoek Valley from the beautiful outdoor seating area. And if you want to take a piece of Franschhoek home with you, the studio offers a beautiful selection of hand-woven items for purchase. Don't miss this hidden gem during your visit to Franschhoek! Nearby is also the La Motte wine estate, where you can go wine tasting and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Fairview Wine and Cheese is a must for wine and cheese lovers in Franschhoek. This magnificent winery offers a wide selection of award-winning wines made from grapes grown in the region. The tasting room offers an abundance of goat, cow and sheep cheeses that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. An insider's tip is to visit the goat cheese dairy, where you'll get a detailed look at how cheese is made. The farm is also home to a couple of cute goats that will keep you company during your visit. Another nearby attraction is the Huguenot Memorial Museum, a great place to learn more about the history of the city.

The Franschhoek Wine Tram offers a unique way to explore the beautiful Franschhoek wine region. Hop aboard and enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and vineyards as you visit some of the region's best wineries. Thanks to knowledgeable guides and a variety of routes, there's something for everyone.

Are you ready for an exciting adventure in Franschhoek? Then Le Bonheur Reptiles and Adventures is the place for you! This unique attraction offers guided crocodile cage dives and snake encounters for a truly unforgettable experience. You can also take a leisurely boat ride on the lake, go bird watching, or even go fishing.

Experience the thrill of seeing majestic lions up close at Drakenstein Lion Park in Franschhoek. This incredible sanctuary provides a safe home for rescued lions that were once held in captivity and exploited. See them in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and conservation efforts from trained guides. You can even pet baby lions and hand feed the big cats!

If you are an admirer of biodiversity and nature, the Stellenbosch University Botanical Gardens in Franschhoek should be at the top of your must-visit list. This garden gem covers 4.5 hectares of land and is home to over 4500 plant species and varieties - from fynbos to desert succulents to medicinal herbs. The garden is known to be well-maintained and provides a lovely backdrop for a relaxing stroll or picnic with family and friends.

Leeu Estates in the heart of Franschhoek is a must for any traveler seeking luxurious accommodation and stunning natural surroundings. This exclusive property offers incredible views of the vineyards, exquisitely designed rooms, and top-notch amenities, making it the perfect place for a peaceful and relaxing vacation. During your stay, be sure to explore the nearby town of Franschhoek, which offers museums, galleries, and delicious local cuisine. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the incredible natural beauty and luxurious hospitality of Leeu Estates.

Are you looking for a luxurious stay in the heart of the wine region? Then Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa is the place for you! This stunning property offers breathtaking mountain views, a spa where you can pamper and rejuvenate yourself, and a restaurant with delicious cuisine and a wine list featuring the finest wines from local wineries. And don't miss the quaint town of Franschhoek, known for its charming stores and galleries, just a stone's throw away.

Are you a wine lover looking for a unique experience? Then you should definitely not miss Vredenheim in Franschhoek! Not only is it a stunning winery with amazing vineyards, but it is also home to exotic animals like zebras, cheetahs and even llamas! Take a leisurely walk through the vineyards, enjoy a wine tasting, and even go on a safari to see the majestic animals up close.

The Vrede en Lust wine estate is a must for wine lovers exploring the Franschhoek Valley. This winery not only offers beautiful surroundings, but also a rich history that dates back to 1688. A visit to the winery will take you on a journey through time as you explore the original manor house and walk through the vineyards. The winery produces a wide range of wines that will delight your taste buds.

Attention all lovers of Craft Beer! When visiting Franschhoek, don't miss the Hey Joe Brewing Company. This trendy place offers a wide range of craft beers brewed on site, each with a unique and delicious taste. Not only that, but the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the nearby Franschhoek Wine Valley.

The First South African Perfume Museum in Franschhoek is a must for all perfume lovers and history buffs. Here you can discover the fascinating history of perfume through the centuries, from ancient Egypt to the present day. The museum houses an extensive collection of rare perfumes, antique bottles and old perfume paraphernalia, displayed in a beautiful old Cape Dutch building. The knowledgeable guides on site will take you on an olfactory journey, explaining the different ingredients and techniques used to create perfumes throughout history. Once you've explored the museum, be sure to stop by nearby La Maison de Sabré, a charming boutique that sells custom perfumes and scented candles.

When in Franschhoek, a visit to Haute Cabrière - Pierre Jourdan's winery - is an absolute must! This winery is not only surrounded by spectacular scenery, but also offers a unique wine tasting experience, with the house specialty being the Cap Classique method. The wines are paired with delicious food while you sit on the terrace overlooking the vineyards. Pro-tip: Ask for a tour of the underground wine cellar, it's a fascinating experience. And if you have time, visit the nearby Huguenot Monument and Museum for a bit of history.