Overberg Canola Fields and Franschhoek Valley South Africa

Without a doubt, Franschhoek is one of the most beautiful places in South Africa! Yesterday, after driving the twists and turns of Overberg hills splashed with bright yellow canola fields, I stopped there for lunch.

Spectacular Vistas

Vistas along the way were so magnificent, it was difficult keeping both eyes on the road. I set out with no specific itinerary in mind, so what would have been about a one-hour drive became several. Going, I travelled the R319 between Bredasdorp and Swellendam, and on the return, took R321 passing by Grabouw in the lush Elgin Valley, Greenlandberg Nature Reserve and Hottentots-Holland Mountain Catchment. I’m still adjusting to driving a stick shift, so blind curves along the snakelike highway were a challenge.

The R321 passes by reservoirs and Steenbras Dam and continues through Villiersdorp, Grabouw, and Viljoen’s Pass. It’s spring, so mountain streams are overflowing onto parts of the highway. Some areas were still under repair after heavy winter storms caused landslides and fallen rock.

The weather was clear and glorious, and the area’s unsurpassed beauty left me in a daze. I stopped a few times to take a deep breath and admire the magic vistas. Unfortunately, it was often in the wrong spot for favorable photography. A few of my mediocre photos are attached, along with some incredible media shots by talented professionals. No photo can fully depict the valley’s unique, extraordinary splendor.

Hiking Trails

I took note of several hiking trails and plan to return for daytrips. Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve is one of many fantastic hiking areas. AllTrails has an excellent write-up of the “best hiking trails” in Franschhoek Valley.

Café du Vin

There’s an endless variety of excellent, reasonably-priced restaurants in Franschhoek. Many are hidden along backroads in idyllic locations at secluded wine farms. I opted for Café du Vin along the main street and didn’t regret it. They offer a two-course lunch with dessert and a glass of complimentary local wine. I enjoyed a leisurely meal sitting in the warm sun watching an eclectic parade of interesting faces pass by. The atmosphere was relaxing and incredibly mellow :o)…

More later…