When it comes to places to stay in Franschhoek, visitors are spoilt for choice. There is an abundance of beautiful places that showcase the valley at its best and often it is the small, thoughtful differences and the personal attention that separate one from the next. This is exactly what you will experience at Fransvliet.

Fransvliet Guesthouse

The boutique guesthouse is situated on a working grape and olive farm. Although most of the grapes are sold on to surrounding winemakers, the olives are processed onsite, so you can take home Fransvliet olive oil or bottled olives as a memento of your stay.

The guesthouse is owned and run by Shirley Kilian, a native Joburger who found herself in Franschhoek in retirement. Not content to be doing nothing, she, along with her business partner, revamped sections of an original house to create the accommodation and reception areas of Fransvliet.

Surrounded by vineyards and with views of the surrounding mountains, it is, in a word, idyllic.

The guesthouse consists of 5 suites, as well as a separate honeymoon suite and a self-catering unit as well. The self-catering unit is perfect for out of town guests looking to stay for a longer period of time and will make a great base to explore the valley from. All rooms are surrounded by lush greenery, a mix of natural fynbos and flowering plants, creating a cosy and natural space.

The rooms are beautifully appointed with plush furnishings and all the amenities you need to make your stay comfortable. The king-sized bed and uber-luxe linen made for an incredibly restful night. Even though we haven’t fully hit winter yet, there is a definite autumn chill in the air, so heated floors in the bathroom made all the difference. There is aircon for those sweltering summer days and a fireplace in each room for when the weather is cooler.

Wine and Dine in Franschhoek

The guesthouse is located on the way into town itself, a mere 4kms from the centre, so is close enough to get an uber into town (yes there’s uber in Franschhoek!) and also far enough away from the bustle that you can escape. Of course, Franschhoek is awash with amazing restaurants and wine estates, so you can while away your time in a variety of ways (we visited La Petite Colombe for their winter lunch menu).

When morning breaks at Fransvliet the sun comes up from behind the mountains directly in front of the rooms, so you can open your French doors and have a coffee on your private patio while catching the early morning rays. Alternatively, pop on your trainers, as we did, and take a walk through the vineyards. You may want to consider this option, as the breakfast spread is such that you’ll want to have some extra calories to spare.

Special Touches

A selection of fresh fruits is offered with granola and yoghurt to start. The yoghurt with real vanilla seeds and has a beautiful flavour – it’s one of those small but thoughtful touches. Another is the freshly squeezed juice made onsite –it changes daily depending on what fruit is available. We enjoyed a refreshing blend of nectarine, lemon, apple with a hint of ginger.

Along with this is a cooked breakfast option. There is a daily special offered and on the day we dined it was delicately smoked Franschhoek salmon trout with creamy scrambled eggs and avo. A delicious way to start any day. We were also served a lovely plate of mixed pastries and breads that we tucked into. Accompanying this was a selection of local artisanal cheeses and homemade jams made by Shirley and the team. The patio outside of the dining area receives floods of morning sunshine and is the perfect place to enjoy a cappuccino and fresh croissant while you plan your day in the valley.

If you’re staying when the weather is warmer Fransvliet has a stunning pool and tanning area that will be blissful to enjoy with a good book.

Shirley and her team go out of their way to ensure that your every need is met and the friendly and relaxed vibe is very welcoming. Get in touch to book your staycation getaway – idea .

R45 Main Road, Franschhoek | 021 876 3726

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