Location: Franschhoek
Top Things to do in Franschhoek
The 10 Best Outdoor Activities in Franschhoek, Western Cape
The village of Franschhoek (French Corner), tucked into the Cape Winelands of South Africa, is known as the country's food and wine capital. Galleries and antique shops fill the tree-lined streets, and vineyards established more than 300 years ago cascade over the hills just outside town. Local activities range from wine-tasting tours to trout fishing and hiking. The Huguenot Memorial Museum honors the town's early settlers, who fled religious persecution in France.
Restaurants in Franschhoek
1. Franschhoek Cycles
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 20 reviews
Cycling around Franschhoek is a fun way to explore the area, do some wine tastings have lunch at one of the many vineyards or just to get some exercise. There are different routes from beginner to experienced cycling in the area with absolutely amazing views. We also cater for the littler explorers from one year old and up so bring the family.
2. Alpha Equestrian
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Amazing fun out rides through beautiful orchards and vineyards with stunning views of the mountains. 1-2 hour out rides for beginners, intermediate and experienced children and adults. Also special packages for full and half day rides, swimming with horses, wine tasting etc.
3. Franschhoek Adventures
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 29 reviews
Fun, Informative and Adventurous outdoor activities in and around the historical and beautiful wine valley village of Franschhoek. From hiking in our majestic mountains to bike riding between wine farms for a few tastings or a lovely light lunch. From History Tours of the village to Art Route tours to visit our many galleries and resident artists. There is something for everyone in our repertoire.
4. Joshua Juries
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 15 reviews
I grew up on a farm in Franschhoek and have been part of this Valley for 31 years. My Land Rover and I will whisk you off the beaten path to give you an unforgettable experience that only locals know about. Having spent my professional life working at a 5 star hotel, I know how to provide a tailored service - catering to your every whim. I've taken people camping, mountain biking, rode RVs and shown guests the best Franschhoek wines. Hakuna Matata means no worries, with us, it's just fun.
5. Paradise Stables
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 156 reviews
In Franschhoek, enjoy horse riding through vineyards, forests and over mountains.
Reviewed By shaomildred - Hong Kong, China
Best R400 spent for a sunset horseback riding experience through a mountain and vineyards! Even though we have already seen the scenery on a mountain bike the day before, it was such a different experience and perspective on the horse! The sunset was beautiful and the horses were very well behaved. It was my partner's first time on a horse and we didn't find any issues. I was under the impression that there was also wine involved, but there was none, which wasn't really a problem for our party. Other than that, everything else exceeded my expectations!
6. Franschhoek Pass
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,064 reviews
Reviewed By dewaldr - Cape Town Central, South Africa
Having not driven the Franschhoek Pass in a long time I immediately grabbed the opportunity when it came up. The pass is about 13 km (give or take) and is slow and winding. Although the driver needs to focus a lot on this route, there are some areas where you can pull over and take in the beautiful views which make it worthwhile. On the one side of the pass you have the town of Franschhoek with the pass looking over it in certain sections, and on the other side you have Theewaterskloof dam which is the largest dam providing water to the City of Cape Town and surrounds. The pass can get very busy and has been closed on numerous occasions in the past because of rock slides, so keep that in mind when planning your trip. Also, something to note is that during winter when it is really cold, the surrounding mountains can be covered in snow which is always special to see.
7. Cape Winelands Riding
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 40 reviews
Riding holidays and private guided tours through long mountain treks and magnificent vineyards customized for your group and level. Cape Winelands Riding is the equestrian adventure you will come back to time and again, we turn ordinary holidays into once in a lifetime equestrian experience.
Reviewed By JaneL869
I had the best week at CWR. As the only guest I was made most welcome by Louis, Ellen & Kate. I visit many riding places every year but only return to a few, and CWR is definitely on that list. The horses live out in small groups and are very well cared for; the riding was just how I like it (fun and fast) on the amazing Olympia & Dixie; the routes took in different terrain & scenery each day & the guides could tell me about the flora and fauna we encountered; and it was perfect to visit different wineries for a tasting & lunch while the horses rested in a paddock nearby. And the dinners in local restaurants each evening, hosted by one of the staff, were excellent too.
8. Pearl Valley Golf Course
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 29 reviews
Reviewed By Premier_Africa - Cape Town, South Africa
I spent the day out at Pearl Valley yesterday to get a feel for the place as its been a while since I've played golf there and visited the venue. I must say, the course was in immaculate condition even tho it is winter. The greens were rolling so true and fast and it was an absolute pleasure to roll the putts. Damian Wrigley and his team made me feel at home with magic service all round. Pearl Valley now has a hotel on site right behind the driving range. The rooms are brand new, self catering apartment style and are very cozy. They are also running some amazing stay and play packages and winter golf specials so I would highly recommend any keen golfer to plan a few days away and go to Pearl Valley!
9. Experience Franschhoek
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 3 reviews
Experience the Franschhoek Wine Valley through mountain biking, hiking and many other adventure activities. Experience Franschhoek gives you the opportunity to explore the Franschhoek Wine Valley with our Mountain Biking (MTB) tour through the vineyards. The Franschhoek Wine Valley doesn’t only have some of the greatest wines in the world. Experience Franschhoek will show you there is so much more in the beautiful Cape Winelands. The Franschhoek Conservation Area at the Berg River Dam and the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve won’t disappoint with spectacular views. Our professional guides offer you amazing adventures on mountain bike and hiking trails. We accommodate all fitness levels. For those wanting something a little less strenuous, we offer a drive into the Franschhoek Conservation Area and a picnic in the mountains. Our newly developed historical village walking tours and expanded bird-watching tours are also now available. More educational than strenuous, you will learn about the extensive history of the area or about our abundant bird life. The Wine tram is everyone’s first choice with a few options to choose from. For those who want a more private tour you can always book a guided Tuk-Tuk wine tour. You can choose from 3 to 5 wine farms in the the Franschhoek Valley. Other things to do in Franschhoek range from the newly introduced Scootours in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve, taking a tour with our guide to the Le Bonheur crocodile farm, where you can look, touch and dive with Nile Crocodiles. Helicopter trips, trout fishing, horse-back wine tours and so much more is also available. See our website for more details on all these offerings.
10. true Experience wines&township tours
True experience providing memories that will last a life time, giving you true stories and a memorable experience .
