Innholdsfortegnelse for April/May 2025 i Franschhoek Life

A TRANQUIL ESCAPE AT THE FOOT OF THE MAJESTIC KLEIN DRAKENSTEIN MOUNTAINS Far away from the hustle and bustle, yet right at home, Lynx Estate is an exclusive boutique wine farm where tranquillity meets unforgettable experiences. Perfectly situated just 15 minutes from Stellenbosch, 20 minutes from Paarl, and 10 minutes from the heart of Franschhoek, it’s your gateway to discovering the magic of this renowned wine region. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this enchanting landscape and feel at home from the moment you arrive. Choose from 17 exquisitely designed suites and deluxe double rooms, each thoughtfully curated with charming details to offer a cosy retreat for relaxation and serenity. Every room is located at ground level, complete with a private lounge terrace. Spend your evenings stargazing under endless skies…

In the shadow of the iconic Mill Street Monument sits Mill St Bistro, newly opened this past winter, this ode to French bistronomy is, for now, an undiscovered diamond in South Africa’s dining scene. Founded by acclaimed Welsh chef Phil Carmichael, the bistro is a culmination of a lifelong dream. Chef Carmichaels’ journey began in the kitchen of his local pub in Wales before he trained under Michel Roux Jr. at Le Gavroche, later earning his own Michelin star at Maze Prague. With guidance from Gordon Ramsay and Jason Atherton, he built a reputation as a “chef’s chef,” leading top restaurants like Berners Tavern in London. During the pandemic, Carmichael returned to South Africa with his family to pursue a more sustainable, locally driven approach to food. Partnering with Farmer…

Labotessa Luxury Boutique Hotel in Cape Town, has rebranded its in-house boutique to exclusively feature Diptyque, marking South Africa’s first standalone Diptyque Boutique. This transformation enhances the hotel’s luxury retail experience, immersing guests in the world of the iconic French fragrance house. Founded in Paris in 1961, Diptyque is globally celebrated for its craftsmanship and innovative approach to fragrance. The brand’s signature candles, perfumes, and home fragrances evoke memories and emotions, making it a favourite among connoisseurs and design enthusiasts. In much the same way, Labotessa shares a commitment to excellence and to delivering an outstanding guest experience. The hotel’s focus on personalised luxury, paired with its historic yet contemporary setting, makes it the ideal partner for Diptyque’s artistry and sophistication. This synergy is highlighted in the Diptyque Tea Experience,…

La Motte introduces a new interactive seasonal exhibition and programme of workshops in the recently introduced Ateljee on the estate. Entitled Landmarks, this exhibition focuses on an autumnal theme with leatherwork and watercolour painting and will run from 29 March to 8 June. Autumn is a season of quiet transition. After the rush of harvest, the land exhales, embracing stillness before the winter rains arrive. It is a moment of reflection, a natural landmark in the cycle of seasons. This exhibition explores the idea of landmarks through two distinct yet deeply connected materials: leather and watercolour. Each, in its own way, marks time, preserves history, and tells a story of the land. Together these materials speak to the rhythms of nature and craftsmanship, one shaped by the elements, the other…

Inspired by over 350 years of winemaking tradition and heritage, Franschhoek Cellar is home to a vibrant and celebrated range of wines. Join for specially curated wine tastings that include artisanal chocolates and cheeses, or for a delicious deli style lunch under the oak trees. Franschhoek Cellar also has a supervised kiddie’s playground, which means fun for the whole family! Two luxury cottages on the premises are the perfect central base from which to explore the Franschhoek Valley and the greater Winelands. Included in the offering, Franschhoek Cellar has a selection of unique event venues to suit every occasion, from weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, year-end corporate groups to intimate gatherings. Franschhoek Cellar is a beautiful asset to the Franschhoek wine route, combining the charms of leisurely country life with the elegance…

FRANSCHHOEK MYSTERY WEEKENDS RETURN FOR 2025! The much-loved Franschhoek Mystery Weekends are back, offering an unforgettable, stress-free escape in the heart of the Valley of Dreams. These curated weekends promise luxurious stays, award-winning wines, gourmet dining, and exclusive activities—all revealed only upon arrival! Each weekend kicks off with a VIP check-in, where guests receive a Mystery Weekend box unveiling their unique itinerary. Expect roaring fires, bold red wines, and Franschhoek’s signature hospitality—the perfect winter getaway. 2025 Mystery Weekend Dates: 27–29 June | 25–27 July | 29–31 August R9500 per couple (includes two nights’ luxury accommodation, meals, and exclusive experiences). Bookings now open! Contact mysteryweekend@franschhoek.org.za LA MAISON POMMERY BRINGS ITS ICONIC CHAMPAGNE TO SA Celebrated French Champagne house, La Maison Pommery, has partnered with Vinimark as its exclusive distributor in South…