Saturday a group of Connect-123 volunteers spent the day at Franschhoek (French corner in Afrikaans). Unfortunately I woke up sick and was unable to join them – big disappointment. Feeling better today… I plan to visit the valley during the next outing and certainly while I’m still here in South Africa.
French Huguenot refugees fleeing religious turmoil between Catholics and Protestants settled the Franschhoek Valley in 1688. They brought their culture and wine-making skills and eventually integrated into the existing Dutch community.
The Farnschhoek Valley is now considered the gourmet capital of South Africa. Noted for excellence and versatility in catering to all tastes Franschhoek restaurants serve everything from gourmet to rustic meals. Many of the restaurants are high on the hillsides overlooking the spectacular valley or on the slopes of Franschhoek Pass. In addition to food and wine there are festivals, arts and crafts studios, and excellent hiking trails along the Franschhoek and Dwars River Valleys.