Getting out of town for a night with a bunch of girl friends and a good few bottles of wine is one of my favourite things to do. Sharing late-night conversations and indulging in life’s sweetest treats with your best girls is just pure magic. For me, a day of wine tasting, chocolate eating, high tea and good food can really only be improved with a night somewhere luxurious. Here’s my idea of the ultimate Girl’s Trip to Franschhoek.
When I think of a girl’s day out with friends somewhere lush, Franschhoek definitely comes to mind. It’s got natural beauty, indulgence around every corner and loads of luxury. If you’re thinking about partaking in some wine tasting, I recommend using Uber or the Franschhoek Tuk Tuk to get around.
The Ultimate Girl’s Trip to Franschhoek
Franschhoek Wine Tram
The old-timey Franschhoek Wine Tram is such a great way to see some of the valley’s most beautiful farms. It departs from the center of town on five different lines. Hop off and on at the farms that catch your fancy for a tasting – but remember to book lunch ahead of time, since the restaurants get pretty packed over summer.
Details: www.winetram.co.za
Price: From R170 – R220 per person
Chocolate Heaven at De Villiers Chocolate Café
Four words: Best hot chocolate EVER. The De Villiers Chocolate Café is pure indulgence, with artisanal chocolates, ice cream and literally the best hot chocolate in the world on offer.
Details: www.dvchocolate.com
High Tea at La Residence
With a reputation as one of the most glamorous locations in the winelands, La Residence is a must for their over the top high tea. Scones with clotted cream and homemade jams, freshly baked cake, tiny sandwiches and delicate macaroons – it’s the thing dreams are made of.
Details: www.theroyalportfolio.com/la-residence/overview
Price: From R440 – R480 per person
The Ultimate Girl’s Trip to Franschhoek
Sunset Sabrage at Haute Cabriere
Have you ever see someone sabrage a bottle of bubbles? It’s pretty impressive – the top of the bottle is sliced neatly using a sharp knife or even a sword. An even more exciting way to pop a bottle. Haute Cabriere’s Takuan is famous for his style, and this is an excellent way to enjoy the sunset over the beautiful valley.
Details: www.cabriere.co.za
Dinner at Reuben’s
The food at Reuben’s has always been consistently good, but I feel like it tastes even better in their shiny new space. The restaurant recently relocated and revamped, and the beautiful, bright space is refreshing and inviting. If there’s one place you will keep on coming back to – this is it. The menu includes dishes like tuna tarare and risotto with Jerusalem artichoke and hazelnuts – both my favourites. Imagine a long night, fuelled by wine, carbs and lots of secrets. My idea of heaven.
Details: www.reubens.co.za
La Cles Des Montagnes
The Colonial Villa at La Cles Des Montagnes is the kind of space that feels like the home of your well-travelled interior designer friends. Equal parts comfortable and luxurious, its big enough to give each of you your own space, while being able to accommodate all of you in public areas. A large lounge with oversized couches and fireplace is where you’ll end off the night. In the morning, your private butler will have breakfast prepared and set up by the time you get up.
Details: www.lacle.co.za
Food and Wine Pairing at La Motte
The interactive food and wine pairing experience at La Motte is a fusion of wine, food, art and your five senses. You’ll start by waking up your taste buds before learning more about the nose, flavour and winemaking process of their wines. You’re then served a series of small meals, plated on artworks by local potters and ceramicists.
Details: www.la-motte.com/pages/food-wine-tasting
Price: R200 per person
Spa Treatment at Babylonstoren
You can’t leave without a treatment at the exquisite Babylonstoren Garden Spa. Dressed in robes, towels wrapped around your heads, chilling next to the farm pool after a delicious treatment is just the ultimate end to an ultimate getaway.
Details: www.babylonstoren.com/experience/spa
Now you have the perfect itinerary for the ultimate Girls Trip to Franschhoek – all you need is an excuse to book.
2 comments
I need to get back to this valley soon. Feel like there is always more to explore.
Where was the Cherry Blossoms? ♥