OPULENCE AND COMFORT IN THE WINE COUNTRY
Located in the beautiful Franschhoek Valley on a private 30-acre estate, La Residence is a tranquil haven of luxury and relaxation.
La Residence is surrounded by vineyards and plum orchards, with a spectacular mountain backdrop, breath-taking views of the undulating countryside and an atmosphere of complete tranquility. Step into the Great Hall and be transported to a world of exquisite beauty, opulence and grandeur in this luxury Franschhoek hotel.
Glittering Indian chandeliers hang from the vaulted ceiling, original artwork and huge mirrors grace the walls, while the furnishings of Liz Biden are plush, colourful and stylish. Elegant antiques and exquisite flowers create a feeling of refinement and sophistication.
ABOUT FRANSCHHOEK
Franschhoek is known as the ‘Culinary Capital of South Africa’ and for good reason. Although the list varies year-to-year, up to 8 of South Africa’s ‘Top 100’ restaurants are based in the small town of Franschhoek.
Franschhoek (‘French Corner’ in Dutch) is a picturesque village where the laid back café culture has a distinctly French charm. Full of character, Franschhoek is distinguished by its fine colonial architecture, numerous gourmet restaurants, art galleries and curio shops.
HISTORY OF FRANSCHHOEK
The first French Huguenot settlers arrived in South Africa at Franschhoek in 1688 and their influence lives on, for this is a destination undeniably devoted to the creation and enjoyment of good food and wine.
Many of the original French Huguenot refugees were given land by the Dutch government in a valley called Olifantshoek (“Elephants’ corner”), so named because of the elephants that crossed into the valley to calve. The name of the area soon changed to le Coin Français (“the French Corner”), and later to Franschhoek, with many of the settlers naming their new farms after the areas in France from which they came.
La Motte, Champagne, La Cotte, Haute Cabrière, La Provence, Bourgogne, La Terra de Luc and La Dauphine were among some of the first established farms — most of which retain their original Cape Dutch farm houses today.
WINE COUNTRY
Wine-making has an illustrious 300-year old history in the Franschhoek Valley. The oldest family-owned wine farms are worth visiting for their architecture and beautiful vineyards alone. Whether you are a connoisseur with your own cellar or an enthusiastic newcomer to the wonderful world of wine, wine tasting in Franschhoek offers a unique and diverse experience for oenophiles.
You’ll learn about the wine-making process and gain an understanding of what makes South African wine so special as well as the differences between new world and old world wines.
STELLENBOSCH AND PAARL
Stellenbosch and Paarl are a short distance from Franschhoek and are well worth exploring for a complete Wine Country experience. Different terroirs lend themselves to different wine styles and varietals while Stellenbosch also has several top rated restaurants.
Some of our favourite Stellenbosch and Paarl Wine Estates and Restaurants include Tokara, Thelema, Delaire Graff, Babylonstoren, Glen Carlou, Cavalli, Overture, Rust en Vrede, Terroir and Jordan.
WHEN TO VISIT
Franschhoek has something to offer all year round. Peak season is during the summer months from November until April when temperatures soar above 30 degrees celsius.
During the winter months, temperatures drop to an average of about 18 degrees while visitors enjoy crackling fireplaces, red wine and the many festivals hosted in the valley.
An integral part of the experience at Franschhoek’s La Residence is the elaborate and unique interior of each suite. Every suite has its own colour scheme and set of design influences, from the exotic Tibetan Suite with its oriental antiques and
rich orange tones to the blue and yellow Chambre Bleu with its Provençal antiques, velvets and silks. The 11 Suites at the hotel are ideal for couples while the 5 Vineyard Suites offer privacy and space for families and groups of friends.
Vineyard Suite 1 is an elegant and sociable space, with soothing green décor enlivened by splashes of pinks and reds. Light pours into the generously sized central living area where you can watch television on the plush pistachio-green couch, or dine in relaxed style at the glossy red oval table.
On either side of this space are two cosily splendid en-suite bedrooms, one with a king-sized bed, and one with a king-sized bed that can be converted into 2 twins. These boast huge mirrors and bold, contemporary artwork. Outside there is a terrace for al fresco dining and a private pool.
French blue is combined with hints of green to form the perfect setting for the striking, elevated four-poster bed which is accompanied by old-world footstools to assist ascent.
This suite has the luxury of two verandas, one looking across the perfectly manicured lawn to the dam, and the other surveying the olive grove and mountains.
Modest neutrals are undeniably chic, which make this room a modern classic. An astonishingly beautiful painting of a ballerina is balanced by furnishings in greys, browns and
creams that work harmoniously to create a mood of calm and repose. Views from the private balcony take in the manicured lawns, the dam and the surrounding mountains.
Relish the vibrant pinks and greens of this suite, which give it a funky and modern feel. Signature pieces include a bright pink chaise lounge and impressive four-poster king-size bed
in lime green. The room looks across the gorgeous vineyards and to the mountains beyond, with fine views of the lush garden and main pool from its spacious balcony.
Stylish in white and gold, this light and airy white marble room boasts a built-in king-size bed on a heated marble plinth. The glamorous bathroom is reminiscent of Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors. Both rooms are decorated in neutral tones,
with slight touches of eastern flare seen in the decorative ornaments and pieces of art. From the spacious veranda, guests are free to enjoy stunning views of both the vineyard and Franschhoek mountainside.
Relax amidst a symphony of pinks. The artwork, fine fabrics and harmonious colour palette merge to give an air of sophistication and refinement. In the bathroom, beautiful pink marble, French antiques and
delicately patterned rugs complete the feel of luxurious elegance. Open the French doors and sit on the veranda to enjoy exquisite views across the lawn, down to the dam and across to the mountains beyond.
Be enchanted by the warmth and brightness of this suite. Orange and golden yellow predominate while a mahogany four-poster king-size bed is the room’s key feature. Light
streams in from expansive windows and the view stretches across the sunlit vineyards to the mountains beyond. A spacious, private veranda leads onto the garden.
In remembrance of the first settlers in Franschhoek, this room is decorated in wonderfully soft antique blues and yellows. The deep mustard-gold of the king-size four-poster bed is echoed by the richly-upholstered
couch and armchair, while a sophisticated, arresting chandelier hangs overhead. The room opens out onto a private balcony which presents you to the views across the vineyards to the surrounding mountains.
Exotic Indian décor, antique paintings and crystal wall-sconces create a sumptuous interior that is warm, inviting and unashamedly opulent. Gold accents add glamour while the built-in
king-sized bed is approached by gleaming marble steps. The room boasts two balconies, one overlooking the lush lawns and dam, the other facing the olive grove and mountains.
Accents of the African sun are harnessed in the brilliant yellows that enliven this suite. A king-sized bed with padded headboard is set off by vibrantly coloured African paintings
adorning the walls. Views from both the room and the adjoining balcony take in the lawn and expansive dam with the mountains providing a sublime backdrop.
Revel in regal reds and greens in this lavish suite. Rich styling includes a king-size bed with an accompanying, ornately padded headboard that can be separated into twin beds. Large Chinese
scrolls adorn the wall above the plush sofa, and an elegant chandelier hangs over the room. The room opens onto a veranda which looks out onto the vines and mountainside.
Be transported to a place of complete and utter tranquillity with this oriental oasis of a suite. Giant antique Tibetan hangings above the king-size bed add a touch of grandeur, and the bed can easily be separated into twin beds, if required.
The suite is decorated in deep oranges and maroons, and a burnt orange chaise lounge is one of the room’s most impressive features. Sweeping views of the vineyards and mountains can be appreciated from the private balcony.
Let the rich red interior of Vineyard Suite 2 warm and inspire you. Fabulous swaged curtains, a high ceiling and rustic stone fireplace create a sense of homely grandeur. Downstairs is a king-size bed with a striking
en-suite bathroom, complete with black and white harlequin-patterned vanity cabinets. Upstairs, an inviting twin-bedded loft room with en-suite shower commands spectacular views across the valley.
Sumptuous fabrics, brilliant, jewel-like colours and magnificently over-sized furniture conspire to create a sense of sublime opulence in this luxurious Franschhoek hotel accommodation option. This is a special place with a positively palatial feel that boasts
an elevated four-poster bed, high ceiling and glamorous en-suite bathroom. Curl up on the vast plum-coloured couch and enjoy a roaring fire in winter, or sit outside on the terrace in summer and soak up the beautiful mountain scenery.
Vineyard Suite 4 is an undeniably tranquil space: the soothing palette of blue and yellow combines with the gentle rush of the fountain to delight both eye and ear. The high-ceilinged central living room and two generous en-suite bedrooms all have French doors leading to the private poolside terrace and lawned garden. One room contains a king-sized bed, while the other is accompanied by either an extra king-size bed, or two queen-size ones.
Room 4a enjoys a tiny private courtyard complete with fountain and lofty palms, as well as an outside shower room off its glamorous mirrored bathroom. In both bedrooms curtains of shimmering gold silk convey a sense of luxurious indulgence. An eclectic mix of old and new create a relaxing but stylish environment, while the views beyond the palm trees that edge the garden are heart-stoppingly beautiful.
Vibrant colours and a lovely openness in design characterize Vineyard Suite 5. A wealth of influences is evident in the interior, creating an elegantly diverse space. Pinks, reds and oranges predominate, with plenty of interest provided by the artwork and furniture. Antique Chinese cabinets sit alongside brightly painted octagonal tables and couches in mouth-watering tangerine
and raspberry velvet. Off the central living area lies one spacious en-suite bedroom with a king-size bed, one en-suite bedroom with one king-size bed, or two queen-size beds, and a charming twin room with an en-suite shower. The terrace is perfect for relaxed dining, while the pool and lawned garden enjoy spectacular views and complete privacy.
Despite its diminutive size, Franschhoek boasts an incredible range of snug cafés and stylish restaurants with every style of food on offer. From traditional English pub food to classic French bistro fare and from superb wood-fired pizzas to contemporary Indian cuisine – there is something for every palate.
RECOMMENDED FRANSCHHOEK RESTAURANTS
Foliage, The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Francais, Bread&Wine at Môreson, Grande Provence, The Kitchen at Maison, Pierneef at La Motte, Ruben’s and Ryan’s Kitchen.
RECOMMENDED FRANSCHHOEK WINE ESTATES
Chamonix, Boekenhoutskloof, La Motte, L’Ormarins, Grande Provence, Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines, Rupert & Rothschild, Stoney Brook, Franschhoek Pass Winery, Haute Cabriere and Colmont.
Executive Chef Lennard Marais oversees the dining experience at La Residence.
His cuisine emphasises fresh, local ingredients, many of which are grown on the estate.
Because the cuisine is such an integral part of the experience at La Residence, our guests will often sit down with the chefs to discuss their preferences and dietary requirements with menus being tailored accordingly.
The chefs at La Residence are of the highest calibre, dedicated to ensuring that every meal is unforgettable.
Breakfast at this Franschhoek hotel is a lavish, buffet affair. All manner of cereals, fruits, cheeses and meats are on offer, as well as a scrumptious hot breakfast menu. Lunch is fresh and flexible. The emphasis is on light and tasty seasonal fare. Night-time dining at La Residence is always something to look forward to.
Begin with an apéritif in the loggia while watching the sunset over the dam, or sit beside the fire for cocktails and canapés by candlelight.
At the Chef’s Table in the Great Hall guests will enjoy a completely interactive evening with one of our celebrated chefs.
An evening perfectly curated to your preferences and interests. The experience begins with a leisurely stroll through the La Residence gardens.
The abundance of black figs, ripe pomegranates, juicy plums, green artichokes and fragrant herbs will leave you spoiled for choice as you select the freshest seasonal ingredients for your feast.
The four-course meal complete with amuse bouche, palate cleanser and petits fours will be prepared in front of you while the chef talks you through the ingredients, cooking techniques and flavours.
All that remains is for you to enjoy your meal accompanied by a perfectly paired selection of wines by our wine steward.
The dining area at La Residence is known as the Great Hall – resplendent with dazzling chandeliers, black and white Victorian tiles and vast fireplaces.
Outside, the Persian Alley offers a delightful setting for alfresco meals, overlooking the lush green lawn and palm fronds. The chef presents a seasonal menu that is alive with flavour.
And, of course, no dinner would be complete without a carefully selection wine from the extensive wine list.
The wine stewards are on hand to offer advice or guide you through a food and wine pairing where the hotel's team will select a wine that complements the flavour profile of the dishes you have chosen.
La Residence has two in-house spa therapists. Signature treatments include the Swedish Massage to relax muscles and stimulate circulation, the tension releasing Deep Tissue Massage to ease stiffness, and the Pinotage Body Polish – a treatment inspired by the natural benefits of the uniquely South African Pinotage grape. When the weather is good, massages and
other spa treatments can also be enjoyed outside in the Tea House overlooking the dam. For those keen to keep in shape while on holiday, there is a fully-equipped gym at the hotel. And for those requiring a healthy meal plan, our team of award winning chefs will gladly oblige with a special healthy meal plan designed around your dietary requirements.
For those keen to keep in shape while on holiday, there is a fully-equipped gym at the hotel.
Signature treatments include the Swedish Massage to relax muscles and stimulate circulation, the tension releasing Deep Tissue Massage to ease stiffness, and the Pinotage Body Polish.
Find out about the best places to swim and relax after an exciting day.
La Residence is set on a 30-acre estate in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley among orchards and vineyards and against a backdrop of magnificent mountains.
FARM LIFE
Tango and Twist, the miniature horses, are just two of the characters that you might bump into at La Residence. Keep an eye out too for the springboks, guinea fowl and strutting peacocks.
THE VINEYARDS
La Residence is set among Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz vineyards from which we produce our own wines - the two single varietals and a refreshing rose.
THE HERB GARDEN & PLUM ORCHARDS
One of our chefs will gladly show you around our herb garden and the plum orchards where many of our daily ingredients are grown.
WEDDINGS
Towering mountains, the exhilarating sweep of a vine-covered valley… Where better to celebrate with South Africa’s finest bubbly than in the heart of the beautiful Cape Winelands? As a Franschhoek wedding venue, La Residence offers views to take your breath away and the hotel’s opulent interiors provide an enchanting, fairytale setting.
WINE TASTING
Taste the iconic wines of the Cape in the comfort of La Residence. Either be guided by our suggestions or compile your own tasting ‘menu’ from our comprehensive wine list.
And what better way to conclude a tasting than with a stroll through our own vineyards where we grow Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz grapes on our 30-acre farm.
On 2 January 2011 our maiden 2010 vintage was bottled. At present we have bottled three of our own wines named after members of the Biden family, the Nicole Charlotte Cabernet Sauvignon, the Alexandra Frances Shiraz and the Rosemary Jane Rosé.
HONEYMOONS
La Residence was voted the No 1 Hotel in the World in the Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards in 2013 and South Africa’s Best Boutique Hotel by House and Leisure magazine in 2015.
La Residence has perfected the balance between luxury and comfort and there can be few more romantic destinations in the world than the Franschhoek Valley. The surrounding mountains turn a shade of cerise pink in the evening as guests enjoy a stroll through the vineyards before a wine tasting and dinner in the Great Hall.
La Residence is surrounded by some of the world’s top rate wine estates. For newlyweds a day of wine tasting is considered mandatory – lolling from one picturesque farm to the next and sampling some of South Africa’s most distinguished wines along the way. Whether it be by helicopter, on horseback, on a bicycle or on Harley Davidsons – there is something to suit every couple.
FAMILY HOLIDAYS
The Vineyard Suites at La Residence are ideal for families as they offer space and privacy with ample living areas replete with board games and a large television. Each Vineyard Suite is like a self-contained cottage and there are multiple permutations to suit just about every sized family.
The Franschhoek Valley has so much to offer families beyond wine tasting. Horse riding, cycling, chocolate tasting, exploring or simply playing by the pool are just a few of the activities available.
THE HUGUENOT MONUMENT
The French heritage is commemorated by the Huguenot Monument which stands at the end of the town. The museum nearby chronicles the history of the first settlers, with each of the original Huguenot farms having its own fascinating story to tell.
In 1904 a 27 km train line was built between Paarl and Franschhoek to serve as an alternative to ox drawn carts for farmers wanting to get their produce to market. Steam locomotives operated along the route until diesel locomotives took over in the 1970s and then, in the 1990s, as the need for rail transport decreased, service along the railway line was discontinued. The branch line was reinstated in 2012 by a private operator which now operates as the Franschhoek Wine Tram.
A VIBRANT CULTURE
Within the vicinity of the village there are more than 40 wine estates, many of which offer classical concerts, art exhibitions and jazz evenings alongside cellar tours, tutored wine tastings and award-winning dining experiences.
Franschhoek has become synonymous with exciting art, culture and gourmet festivals throughout the year. Top of the calendar are:
- Literary Festival (May)
- Bastille Festival (July)
- Franschhoek Uncorked (September)
- Open Gardens Festival (October)
- Cap Classique & Champagne Festival (December)
Horse riding, cycling, chocolate tasting, exploring or simply playing by the pool are just a few of the activities available.
Keep an eye out for the horses, springboks, guinea fowl and strutting peacocks.
La Residence has the perfected balance between luxury and comfort and there can be few more romantic destinations in the world than the Franschhoek Valley.
One of our chefs will gladly show you around our herb garden and the plum orchards.
La Residence is set among Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz vineyards from which we produce our own wines.
Where better to celebrate with South Africa’s finest bubbly than in the heart of the beautiful Cape Winelands?
Either be guided by our suggestions or compile your own tasting ‘menu’ from our comprehensive wine list.
LA RESIDENCE
Elandskloof Private RoadElandskloof Farm, FranschhoekSouth Africa