Provençal bliss in the Western Cape's French corner

Brian Berkman wonders if a trip to France is really necessary when Franschhoek offers so many delights Francophiles will enjoy.

- Brian Berkman

Long acclaimed for its Monneaux Restaurant, Franschhoek Country House and Villas (FCH) sits near the entrance of Franschhoek via Helshoogte Mountain Pass or from the Klapmuts approach. From FCH it is close to Grande Provence and Le Petit Provence and within proximity of La Motte Estate.

There are 25 rooms and suites at the five-star FCH. Standard rooms are located in the original manor house that dates back to 1890, while other accommodations are built around courtyards with villas offering the most square-metrage space. That said, even the most modest of accommodations are luxurious and spacious, with the villas larger than many family-sized apartments.

Farmer’s Weekly stayed in Villa 18 daubed, like all of the buildings at this property, in the ochre colour originally sourced from the clay hills of Provence, France. This garden-situated villa is accessed by a staircase.

The entrance hall has a coffee station and in-room bar and fridge. Franschhoek’s Terbodore Coffee is available in pods for use in the Nespresso machine along with Red Espresso pods for rooibos tea.

VAST VILLAS 

With large windows and opening French doors, the villas are bright and sunny. Generous balconies with sun loungers beckon relaxation with a view on Franschhoek’s mountains.

Space is the hallmark of the villas here, with a dining table and chairs and large couch, and two deep armchairs in front of the TV and entertainment unit in the sitting room. Not only is there a full bouquet of satellite television and radio stations available, but also a selection of CDs and DVDs. And, especially appealing, is that there are quality speakers in the bedroom and in the bathroom with individual volume controls, so listening to music in the large bathroom in a foam-filled hot bath is a treat.