Franschhoek is a village in a valley ringed by mountains, and it calls itself the Cape's gourmet capital. French Huguenot refugees settled here more than 300 years ago and brought winemaking with them.
Nearly everything is on one main street, so it's easy to explore on foot. You'll pass restaurants, galleries and tasting rooms, and at the top end you'll find the Huguenot Memorial and its museum, which remember the settlers who fled religious persecution in France.
A day here fills up quickly. Boschendal and Rickety Bridge both offer tastings, and the hop-on hop-off Franschhoek Wine Tram lets you visit several estates without driving. Art lovers can head to the museum at La Motte, which shows work by JH Pierneef alongside contemporary pieces.
It's a longer drive than Stellenbosch, so set off in the morning. In summer, book restaurants well ahead, because tables go fast.
