Innholdsfortegnelse for December 2023/January 2024 i Franschhoek Life

A burst of confetti at Cape Town’s GrandWest Grand Arena on Sunday 19 November concluded the much-anticipated 2023 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards ceremony, where over 800 guests gathered to celebrate South Africa’s culinary excellence. Embracing the star-rating system introduced in 2022, South Africa’s top restaurants were awarded with 3, 2 or 1 stars following a meticulous judging process led by chief judge Abigail Donnelly. The criteria spanned the entire spectrum of the dining experience – from decor and ambience to service, the wine list and the quality of the ingredients – with restaurants needing to score between 70 and 79 out of 100 to win one star, between 80 and 89 to win two stars, and over 90 to win three stars. 1-STAR RESTAURANTS Acid Food & Wine Bar…

Tommy Hall is not a man who leaves things to chance. As Director of Global Operations for a Fortune 500 technology company, Hall is all about meticulous planning, managing risk and being prepared for the unexpected. And yet, fate played a hand in bringing Hall and his family to the beautiful Franschhoek valley and the gates of an historic Cape farm. A place offering both a new adventure and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of a Cape farming community. The Solms-Delta Wine Company, is an entirely new venture established to continue the ambitious journey of land restitution and community upliftment that was begun by Mark Solms in 2001.While Solms’ goals were laudable, between the cost of land restitution and the economic challenges of the wine…

Ever dreamed of escaping the monotony of day-to-day life and finding serenity on a secluded island in the heart of the Indian Ocean? Enter the exquisite world of Constance Hotels & Resorts, hidden gems across this enchanting ocean and, at each Constance Spa, every detail is orchestrated towards your comfort and well-being. In the Maldives, at Constance Moofushi and Constance Halaveli, where crystal-clear waters embrace lush, green islands, you will find restful respite in a private paradise exclusively for you. Start your day with sunrise yoga on the beach, guided by a seasoned instructor, connecting your mind and body with the beauty of nature. For those seeking the ultimate relaxation, choose from island-inspired signature massages, which infuse the scent and spirit of the ocean into a truly rejuvenating experience. The…

“the intangible feeling of love, gratitude and peace that you bestow upon someone who has given you a meaningful and worthy gift”… Tintswalo honours this beautiful Shangaan expression by offering guests an unforgettable getaway amongst Africa’s finest wildlife, enjoyed in the comfort of a five-star lodge. Tintswalo Safari Lodge is one of only three commercial lodges located in the pristine Manyeleti Game Reserve. Boasting 27,000 hectares of untouched African wilderness, this is a slice of private wilderness within the world-renowned Greater Kruger National Park. Qualified guides and local trackers take guests on authentic African safari experiences with exceptional game viewing offered twice daily in open safari vehicles. The abundance of wildlife guarantees uninterrupted, intimate encounters with a great variety of animals, including sightings of the Big Five, as well as…

Franschhoek Cellar has always been driven to bottle all the Joie de Vivre that makes the Franschhoek Valley so magical, and in their unwavering commitment to support local, they want to get a taste of magic beyond their Valley. Franschhoek Cellar is set to shine a light on the local hotspots that bring so much joy to your communities. You know the ambient little café that whips up an unforgettable brunch, the hidden jazz bar off-the-beaten-track that is home to the perfect burger, or the unassuming Trattoria that serves up the tastiest Italian fare. They want to hear about it and reward YOU, with a years’ worth of wine, and much more! So how do you WIN? VISIT www.loveyourlocal.co.za; VOTE for your favourite listed local; Stand to WIN fabulous prizes,…

Nearly three years in the making and after breaking ground nearly a year ago, Vrymansfontein has just opened its doors to the public. The 380-hectare Suid-Agter-Paarl property is a working almond farm, with one of the largest orchards in South Africa. Originally planned as a wine tasting facility for the Vondeling wine brand, plans for Vrymansfontein later evolved into the magnificent lifestyle and dining destination it is today, complete with its bespoke wine tasting facility, an impressive glass-fronted indoor restaurant and two alfresco dining options. Together with architect Rick Stander and hospitality interiors specialists Source IBA, owner Max Ward has crafted a contemporary destination unique to the region, which thanks to its elevation, it is graced with some of the most extraordinary vistas imaginable. Visitors can choose from a sophisticated…

There is something infinitely romantic about sailing the high seas, and simply no better way to spoil that special somebody in your life. Your base, on board a luxury boutique ship or yacht includes all the amenities you can imagine for pure indulgence, from being served Champagne and Caviar on your private verandah by your personal Butler, to plush linens and beautiful amenities, multiple dining venues offering culinary sensations, delightful spa treatments or simply relaxing poolside or sipping a cocktail in the jacuzzi. But more than that, your luxury ship offers the perfect platform to explore some of the most magical and breath-taking destinations around the globe. It is almost impossible to pick just a handful but here are our top five picks of stunning and romantic destinations and voyages:…

With over 300 years of nautical heritage coupled with their innate understanding of luxury, the Aponte Vago family have carefully curated the design of the suites, penthouses & residences to create a luxurious home at sea reflecting the brand’s philosophy of creating an Ocean State of Mind, exquisitely designed to stimulate the senses and enhance connection with the ocean. The innovative ship seamlessly blends elegant Swiss precision with modern European craftsmanship and vibrant design, to create luxurious, serene, and spacious ‘Homes at Sea’ ranging from 35 sqm in the Ocean Terrace category up to 280 sqm for the Owners Residence. Each suite has been created with simplicity and comfort as the focus, and presents unrivalled space and privacy to offer a real ‘Home at Sea’. The European family roots and…

https://lifebrands.co.za/food-wine/here-are-the-winners-of-the-2023-eat-out-woolworths-restaurant-awards This year’s prestigious 2023 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards event marked an exceptional showcase of culinary excellence. Distinguished as the revered culinary capital of the Western Cape, the Franschhoek valley proudly showcased its exceptional dining landscape with numerous local establishments securing accolades in the esteemed star-rating system. Chief judge Abigail Donnelly, praised the recognized restaurants for their unwavering commitment to excellence, innovative approaches and absolute dedication to the craft. Franschhoek boasts its culinary prowess and would like to congratulate all the winners with special mention to home favourites. 1-STAR RESTAURANTS – Chef’s Warehouse at Maison, Le coin Français, Orangerie at Le Lude, and Protégé. 2-STAR RESTAURANTS – Epice. 3-STAR RESTAURANTS – ARKESTE by Richard Carstens and La Petite Colombe. These prestigious acknowledgements reflect the region’s unwavering pursuit of culinary…

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SALON “REVEAL” ED In the heart of Stellenbosch, Revel Salon, Revel makes it easier for busy people to celebrate self-care with a luxurious, thoughtful, full-service salon experience. A haven of indulgence, offering head-to-toe grooming services with meticulous attention to detail. With a focus on time efficiency and consistency, every visit leaves you feeling pampered and confident and where impeccable service, a passion for self-care, and a commitment to excellence create a truly extraordinary salon experience. Look out for their monthly promotions and special packages. For appointments www.revelselfcare.co.za A SUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM AT SPIER WINE FARM An enchanting family-friendly show, staged outdoors in a magnificent natural amphitheatre on Spier wine farm. The event starts on the Werf with a feast. Ticket options include Spier’s delicious food options, from a braai burger…

THE LOUNGE SAA, Discovery have just unveiled their premium lounge: Elevating travel to new heights. A first-of-its-kind at OR Tambo International Departures. This newly revitalised space is a cornerstone in realising their joint vision of providing exceptional luxury and convenience for travellers. Discovery Bank Purple, Black, and Platinum cardholders can now join SAA Business class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members in accessing The Lounge, and the airline’s local flight network on the Vitality Travel platform. The Lounge blends experience and interior design seamlessly – from the copper-clad concierge pods to mood-setting smart lighting, and aeronautical-inspired design elements. A variety of thoughtfully laid out sections including focus booths, private suites, quiet meeting rooms and open-plan seating areas cater to every traveller’s preference. Guests can savour a buffet-style selection of dishes…