10 Unforgettable Things to Do in Franschhoek
Franschhoek South Africa, in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is more than just wine country—it’s a compact pocket of rich history, sharp culinary instincts, and scenery that speaks for itself. While it’s easy to get swept up in the views, plenty here deserves a spot on your itinerary.
To help narrow down our list of things to do in Franschhoek, we turned to someone who knows the area well. Our own Justin Mitchell—operations manager at The Oyster Collection and a local resident—shared his top ten recommendations. Each one is well worth carving out time for while you’re in town.
Justin’s Top 10 Things to Do in Franschhoek
1. Wine Tour of the Valley
If you’d rather leave the route planning (and driving) to someone else, book a private wine tour with The Oyster Collection. Available as a full- or half-day option, this is an easy way to explore not just Franschhoek, but also its neighbouring wine regions—Stellenbosch and Paarl—without rushing.
The tour covers the Cape Winelands’ main route, stopping at a curated mix of estates known for their wines, cheeses, olives and standout scenery. Think historic homesteads, rolling vineyards, and plenty of tasting opportunities.
Tours are open to guests at any of The Oyster Collection’s Franschhoek properties. The full-day experience runs from 9:00 to 17:00. If you’re short on time, you can enjoy a half day version in the morning or afternoon. Tastings, lunch and entrance fees are not included, so you have the flexibility to choose where and what you want to sample.
This private experience is one of the best things to do in Fran
Wine Tram
For a flexible, scenic way to explore wine estates without driving or scheduling a private tour, the Franschhoek Wine Tram is a great alternative. This hop-on, hop-off tram and tram-bus service runs on multiple routes through the valley, each offering a different mix of estates. Most guests pick 3 to 5 stops for a relaxed day, with time for tastings, lunch, and even a few extra experiences, like chocolate pairings or garden walks.
The Blue, Red, and Purple lines each have a unique route and feel—there’s no “best” one, just what fits your pace and interests. Many estates along the routes offer curated activities like cellar tours, olive tastings, high tea, or picnics. Some even have child-friendly spaces, so the grownups can take their time.
There are also guided options for those wanting a deeper dive. The Curated Wine Experience includes guided tastings, a cellar tour, a three-course lunch, and visits to premium estates. The Wine & Cuisine Experience adds extra indulgence with a full day of food and wine pairings—from breakfast through dessert. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Franschhoek for wine lovers and first-timers alike.
Note that bookings are essential—especially for lunch stops and popular activities—and while the tram runs in most weather, rare cancellations can happen due to rain or mechanical issues. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the day; the vehicles are mostly covered, but they keep windows open for the views.
2. Franschhoek Wine Walk with Natural Wanders.
The Franschhoek Wine Walk with Natural Wanders offers something different from the usual tasting room experience. This guided 4 km walk, led by local storyteller Matt, blends wine, history, and storytelling into one of the most memorable things to do in Franschhoek.
The walk starts at the church in the town centre and transitions into vineyards, orchards, and country lanes. Along the way, you’ll stop at three estates—Mont Rochelle, Mullineux & Leeu, and La Cotte Heritage Farm—for nine wine tastings. Each stop includes small snacks, and the tour wraps up with a generous harvest-style lunch at La Cotte, served with a view.
Matt’s easygoing pace and deep knowledge of the area make this more than just a wine tasting. Expect stories about Franschhoek’s early days, from local legends and historic milestones to the odd lion encounter and tales of Bastille Day beginnings. His passion for the valley comes through clearly, making the experience enjoyable even for non-drinkers.
The walk isn’t strenuous and is accessible to most fitness levels. With plenty of photo stops and a route that winds through beautiful gardens and vineyards framed by mountain views, it’s a great way to take in Franschhoek’s landscape—and its layered history—at a slower pace.
3. Spend a Day at Anthonij Rupert Estate
Anthonij Rupert and L’Ormarins Estates offers an all-in-one estate experience covering vintage cars, lunch, and wine, all linked by estate trams. It’s a great pick for anyone looking for relaxed yet curated things to do in Franschhoek, especially when you don’t feel like planning.
Your day usually starts at the Anthonij Rupert Tasting Room. From there, you’ll be driven through the estate to the Franschhoek Motor Museum—home to a rotating display of 80 impeccably restored vintage cars. After the museum, the tram takes you to the Terra del Capo Tasting Room for a lunch of seasonal antipasti, paired with wines from the Terra del Capo range.
The last stop brings you back to where you started, for a premium wine tasting featuring the estate’s flagship wines. If you’re visiting on a Sunday (when the Rupert tasting room is closed), the premium tasting is hosted at Terra del Capo instead.
The entire experience takes about three hours, though you can stay longer. Trams run in tandem between stops, their wide windows offering uninterrupted views of the Groot Drakenstein Mountains and the surrounding vineyards.
It’s suitable for groups but also works well for couples or friends wanting an easy, structured day out. Children are welcome too—under-12s can join on a pay-as-you-go basis, and under-18s are included with soft drinks instead of wine tastings.
Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and pack something warm—the Cape weather tends to keep you on your toes.
Franschhoek Classic Car Festival 2025 – One of the Top Things to Do in Franschhoek
One of the standout events on the calendar this spring is the Franschhoek Classic Car Festival, taking place 4–5 October 2025. Split across two venues, the weekend offers something special for every car enthusiast, from the curated display of 40 rare models at the Huguenot Monument on Saturday, to the once-in-a-lifetime Formula One 75-year tribute and anniversary showcases for Ford Perana, MG, and BMW.
On Sunday, the festival shifts to the Franschhoek Motor Museum at L’Ormarins, where visitors can see an actual championship-winning F1 car, celebrate 50 years of the BMW 3 Series, and enjoy access to the museum’s world-class collection.
Tickets range from R200–R400, with weekend passes available through Webtickets, making this one of the most exciting things to do in Franschhoek for anyone who loves history, heritage, and high-performance engineering.
4. Cocktails and Small Plates at the Lamu Collection
For a stylish yet easygoing spot to wind down, the Lamu Collection is a hidden gem and a fresh entry on any list of things to do in Franschhoek that aren’t all about wine.
Technically a boutique, the Lamu Collection doubles as a restaurant and cocktail bar—and it’s quickly become a favourite for locals and visitors looking for a relaxed setting with great views and inventive drinks.
There’s a balcony overlooking Huguenot Street with a clear view of the surrounding mountains. It’s where you can settle into a high stool, sip well-crafted cocktails, and graze on small plates that borrow flavours from across the globe. The owners’ travels inspire the tapas-style menu, and there’s a lot of variety without it feeling overcomplicated.
The cocktail list is a highlight, with clever blends beyond the basics. Many guests call it the best in town. Add warm, attentive service, and it’s easy to see why this has become a go-to spot for a casual evening out.
Beyond the food and drinks, the space is part of the draw. The boutique downstairs is stocked with carefully sourced fashion, homeware, and accessories, crafted by East African artisans. It’s a thoughtful space where shopping, sipping, and socialising marry under one roof.
5. Hiking in Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve
For a more active outing, hiking in Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve is one of the best outdoor things to do in Franschhoek. Just an hour from Cape Town, this reserve forms part of the Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve and offers over 30 km of clearly marked hiking trails.
There’s something here for every pace. If you’re after a short walk with great views, the Breakfast Rock Trail is a solid option. It’s just under a kilometre from the main gate, with a manageable incline that most people can complete in under 30 minutes. The route also serves as a starting point for several longer hikes, including Vista, Du Toitskop, and Uitkyk.
For something more demanding, the Perdekop Trail is the reserve’s most challenging option. It climbs steadily to 1,575 metres—the highest point in the reserve—and takes around seven hours to complete. It’s a serious hike, so good gear and decent weather are non-negotiable. While you can tackle the trail in either direction, most hikers go clockwise.
Mont Rochelle is open from sunrise to sunset, every day of the year. Permits cost R70 per adult, and kids under 12 can join for free with an adult. Annual permits are also available if you’re local or plan to return. You can buy your permit at the entrance (card only), even after your hike if you arrive early.
You won’t need a guide, but if you’re heading up to Perdekop or venturing out solo, check the weather beforehand and let someone know your route.
6. Sushi and wine tasting at Glenwood Vineyards
Where else can you pair gourmet sushi with fine wine in a mountain vineyard? GlenWood Vineyards, a small, family-run estate, offers this unique combo, making it one of the more unexpected yet memorable things to do in Franschhoek.
The menu features a range of flavourful sushi options, with vegetarian and gluten-free choices available on request. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared to pair beautifully with GlenWood’s wines.
Wine tastings take place either on the vine-covered terrace or inside the cosy tasting room if the weather turns. You’ve got two tasting routes to choose from: a standard flight of five wines, or the Home of Chardonnay experience, which dives deeper into GlenWood’s standout varietal.
For some breathtaking scenery of the Robertsvlei Valley, there’s Nature’s Window—a scenic tasting room on the mountain above the winery. You can walk (20 minutes uphill through indigenous fynbos), or hop into a 4×4 to explore the vineyards and get a close-up look at GlenWood’s flora, including King Proteas and Blushing Brides, when in bloom. Wine tastings are held up at the top, and sushi can be pre-ordered to enjoy with the views.
They’re open Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00–16:00. Plan for about two hours if you want to make the most of it—and yes, it’s very much worth it.
7. Cheese, Charcuterie & Fruit Platter with a Glass of Rosé at Eikehof
Eikehof Wine Estate is a family-owned winery just outside Franschhoek. The estate has been in the Malherbe family since 1903, and the wines are still made in the same cellar used by their great-grandfather.
The estate is home to some of South Africa’s oldest vines, including the country’s oldest still-producing block of Semillon bush vines. Eikehof produces a variety of wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Shiraz.
The winery doesn’t serve full meals but offers relaxed platters. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings alongside a selection of platters. Choose from cheese-only platters or add charcuterie and fruit for a more complete tasting experience.
Eikehof is on the Red Line of the Franschhoek Wine Tram, making it easy to stop by and enjoy its casual charm and scenic views of the nearby Jonkershoek Nature Reserve.
8. Music and wine tasting experience at Black Elephant Vintners
At Black Elephant Vintners, the wine-tasting experience is anything but ordinary. Combining music with wine, this unique offering transforms a traditional tasting into an engaging, interactive event and one of the most fun things to do in Franschhoek. The idea is simple: each wine is paired with a carefully selected track to enhance the tasting experience, adding a new layer of enjoyment to the sound and the taste.
Guests can enjoy the Bubbly and Wine Experience, which features 8 wines, including a selection of Cap Classiques and wines from the Golden Circle, Festival, and Backstage ranges. This experience lasts 2 to 3 hours and is available on Saturdays at 11:00 AM. There is a minimum booking of 2 people and a maximum group size of 20.
Led by owner Kevin Swart, who brings a relaxed yet knowledgeable approach to the tasting, the experience explores the origins of the wines, the winery’s philosophy, and his journey. With his charisma and sense of humour, Kevin offers wine education in a fun, approachable way. He believes that “the best wines are the ones you like,” and his passion for the craft is evident throughout the experience.
The venue reflects the winery’s laid-back spirit, with raw wooden tables, rock ‘n’ roll gear, and vibrant street art decorating the walls. On cooler days, a wood stove adds warmth, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests to unwind and enjoy their wine tasting.
The pairing of music with wine is a standout feature of the tasting. Songs are selected that mirror the characteristics of each wine, creating a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
9. Golf at our Signature Jack Nichlaus Designed Pearl Valley Course
If you’re up for a bit of golf while you’re in the valley, Pearl Valley Golf Course delivers a solid experience. This championship 18-hole course was designed by the Jack Nicklaus team and is consistently rated one of the best in South Africa.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Simonsberg Mountains, the course is beautifully maintained with year-round pristine fairways, cleverly placed bunkers, and water features that add challenge and visual appeal. Whether you’re looking to squeeze in a quick 9 holes or commit to the full 18, both options are available year-round, with tee times adjusted for summer and winter.
There’s a pro shop on site stocked with leading golf brands, so if you forgot your gear—or want to upgrade—you’re covered. You can also rent clubs if you’re travelling light.
It’s a great way to mix a bit of sport into your wine-soaked weekend, especially if you’re craving fresh air and wide-open space between tastings. Just be sure to book your tee time in advance—this course is popular for a reason.
10. Craft Your Own Blend at Café du Vin
Ever wondered what it’s like to be a winemaker? At Café du Vin in Franschhoek, you can step into those shoes with their “Winemaker for a Day” workshop. This two-hour session offers a hands-on introduction to the art of wine blending—the process of combining different grape varieties to create a well-balanced wine.
During the workshop, you’ll learn the basics of blending, then mix, cork, capsule, and label your bottle. It’s a rewarding experience that’s open to anyone with an interest in wine, no prior knowledge required. With a maximum of eight participants per session, there’s plenty of room for questions and individual guidance.
The workshop takes place in the Vintage Room at Café du Vin, a bistro and wine bar in one of Franschhoek’s oldest heritage buildings. Known for its impressive 800-label wine list—recognised by the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence—the venue offers a fitting backdrop for the experience.
Workshops run by appointment from Monday to Sunday, between 10:00 and 17:00. The price includes all materials, plus an apron to take home. Participants must be 18 years or older.
Luxury Accommodation in Franschhoek
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Franschhoek, The Oyster Collection stands out as the ultimate home base. Offering three distinctive and luxurious properties, each one places you within walking distance of the village’s renowned restaurants, boutique shopping, and art galleries.
Whatever your reason for visiting Franschhoek, our luxurious accommodations offer unbeatable convenience.
La Fontaine Boutique Hotel is a serene sanctuary in the heart of the village. Spread across two beautifully restored heritage buildings, its 17 individually designed rooms offer elegant interiors with warm hospitality. Guests can unwind in tranquil gardens, take a dip in the pool, or enjoy views of the surrounding mountains—just a stone’s throw from the action.
If you’re after something with historic soul and modern flair, Avondrood Guest House ticks every box. This Victorian Cape Dutch gem dates back to 1870 and offers eight spacious suites. It’s a peaceful spot with lush gardens, a pool, and deep roots in Franschhoek’s French Huguenot heritage—perfect for those wanting a storybook stay.
For guests seeking the height of exclusivity, Pink Door Franschhoek delivers. This elegant three-bedroom, three-bathroom villa is a private retreat with a chef’s kitchen, butler and private chef services on request. Whether you’re planning a gourmet getaway or just want the best of the best, Pink Door Franschhoek offers high-end seclusion just minutes from top wineries and restaurants.
All three Oyster Collection properties in Franschhoek offer onsite parking, dedicated concierge service, and thoughtful amenities.
So if you’re searching for things to do in Franschhoek, start by staying somewhere unforgettable. With exceptional service and beautifully curated spaces.
Who is Justin Mitchell?
Justin has been in the hospitality industry since 1999, starting his career as a field guide in the Sabi Sands. What began as a temporary role quickly evolved into a passion for lodge management and a long-term commitment to guest experiences.
After gaining valuable experience in boutique hotels in Plettenberg Bay and Stellenbosch, he became co-owner of Avondrood Guest House in 2012. In 2016, Justin joined The Oyster Collection as General Manager for the Franschhoek property, and by 2019, he was overseeing all Western Cape operations.
Since 2022, he has served as Head of Operations and Sales, bringing his years of hands-on hospitality experience to the broader Oyster Collection portfolio.