Innholdsfortegnelse for September/October 2025 i Franschhoek Life

South Africa is a melting pot of cultures, all of which influence food traditions and styles of cooking. Join Chef Christiaan Visser and be introduced to the diversity of South African cuisine as he prepares the dishes, explains the history and shares the tales behind the three-course meal that follows. A true celebration of typical food styles, ingredients and wine from South Africa’s rich culinary heritage. A new hands-on element invites guests to take part in some of the preparation and cooking elements of this interactive experience and also to share their own food stories. Joining the Chef at the generous table in the vibey Leopard’s Leap kitchen is an enthusiastic Wine Tasting Ambassador who introduces guests to the Leopard’s Leap wines and their unique South African attributes. In September,…

Steeped in the mythical tale of a forgotten African kingdom, The Palace of the Lost City is more than a hotel—it is a living legend. Every arch, every carving, every glittering mosaic whispers of a world where fantasy and refinement exist in perfect harmony. Step through towering, hand-carved doors and into a realm of enchantment. Here, hand-painted domes shimmer above mosaic floors, bronze statues guard majestic hallways, and crystal chandeliers scatter light like a canopy of stars. Outside, lush tropical gardens unfurl beneath the watchful gaze of Shawu, the life-sized bronze elephant, while the call of the Pilanesberg wilderness lingers in the air. A LEGEND REIMAGINED Since its unveiling more than three decades ago, The Palace has reigned as one of Africa’s most iconic destinations. Today, it continues to enchant…

In the heart of the Franschhoek Valley, the historic 18th-century Veepos cottage sets the scene for one of South Africa’s most remarkable dining experiences. Beneath the shade of an age-old oak, framed by lavender fields and mountain views, JAN Franschhoek welcomes guests back to its celebrated 18-seater table for Season IV. Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen once again reimagines the South African family table with creativity and global inspiration. Expect menus that are both nostalgic and daring, rooted in local heritage yet elevated with glamour, mystery, and the artistry of contemporary cuisine. Each course is beautifully paired with La Motte’s acclaimed wines, transforming the experience into a journey of flavour, memory, and place. Renowned for its Cape Winelands hospitality, La Motte invites you to share in this culinary…

Soak up the views and the vintages at Mont Rochelle’s brand-new Tasting Deck, now open for relaxed wine experiences in the heart of Franschhoek. Set against a stunning backdrop of mountains and vineyards, this elevated deck is the perfect setting to enjoy a glass of wine or a curated wine flight featuring Mont Rochelle’s award-winning wines — including the much-loved MIKO Chardonnay and MIKO Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc. Whether you’re staying at the hotel or simply dropping by, know your way round a wine list or just in the mood to unwind with a glass in hand, there’s something for everyone. Treat yourself to the Gourmet Tasting with perfectly paired wines and flavourful nibbles, or go for the cheese and charcuterie sharing platter, made with locally sourced ingredients. The new deck…

Inspired by over 350 years of winemaking tradition and heritage, Franschhoek Cellar is home to a vibrant and celebrated range of wines. Join Franschhoek Cellar for specially curated wine tastings, perfectly paired with artisanal chocolates and cheeses, or enjoy a delicious deli-style lunch beneath the shade of the oak trees. With a supervised kiddies’ playground on-site, it’s an experience the whole family can enjoy. For those looking to extend their stay, two luxury cottages on the property provide a stylish and comfortable base from which to explore the picturesque Franschhoek Valley and the greater Cape Winelands this winter. Franschhoek Cellar also offers a range of distinctive event venues, ideal for every occasion—from elegant weddings, milestone birthdays, and anniversaries to year-end corporate functions and intimate private gatherings. As a proud gem…

Soak up the views and the vintages at Mont Rochelle’s brand-new Tasting Deck, now open for relaxed wine experiences in the heart of Franschhoek. Set against a stunning backdrop of mountains and vineyards, this elevated deck is the perfect setting to enjoy a glass of wine or a curated wine flight featuring Mont Rochelle’s award-winning wines — including the much-loved MIKO Chardonnay and MIKO Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc. Whether you’re staying at the hotel or simply dropping by, know your way round a wine list or just in the mood to unwind with a glass in hand, there’s something for everyone. Treat yourself to the Gourmet Tasting with perfectly paired wines and flavourful nibbles, or go for the cheese and charcuterie sharing platter, made with locally sourced ingredients. The new deck…

A Wilderness Journey across Namibia’s wild soul – where purpose, people, and pristine landscapes converge Three Wilderness Camps. One Unforgettable Circuit. From the shifting sands of Sossusvlei to the volcanic ridges of Damaraland, this is Namibia in its rawest, rarest form. A desert safari that speaks to the soul—and gives back to the land. Track black rhino with expert guides across one of the last truly wild landscapes This is no curated safari glamour—it’s raw, immersive adventure WILDERNESS DESERT RHINO CAMP In the remote reaches of Namibia’s Palmwag Concession lies Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp—an exclusive outpost and one of Africa’s most remarkable safari experiences. Set against the stark beauty of Damaraland, this is more than a getaway; it’s a powerful encounter with one of the continent’s great conservation success stories.…

Inspired by over 350 years of winemaking tradition and heritage, Franschhoek Cellar is home to a vibrant and celebrated range of wines. Join Franschhoek Cellar for specially curated wine tastings, perfectly paired with artisanal chocolates and cheeses, or enjoy a delicious deli-style lunch beneath the shade of the oak trees. With a supervised kiddies’ playground on-site, it’s an experience the whole family can enjoy. For those looking to extend their stay, two luxury cottages on the property provide a stylish and comfortable base from which to explore the picturesque Franschhoek Valley and the greater Cape Winelands this winter. Franschhoek Cellar also offers a range of distinctive event venues, ideal for every occasion—from elegant weddings, milestone birthdays, and anniversaries to year-end corporate functions and intimate private gatherings. As a proud gem…

SEPTEMBER 1-14 LAMTA PRESENTS: NOISES OFF – COMEDY IN CHAOS Theatre on the Bay hosts Michael Frayn’s uproarious farce Noises Off, presented by LAMTA and directed by Chris Weare. This play-within-a-play follows a hapless cast whose backstage blunders rival their onstage drama — sardines, slamming doors, romantic entanglements and all. Starring Aidan Scott and Natalie Robbie alongside the talented LAMTA ensemble, it’s a masterclass in comic mayhem. BOOKINGS  webtickets.co.za https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/ SEPTEMBER 4 WINEMAKER’S DINNER AT MONT ROCHELLE Join Executive Chef Terence and Resident Winemaker Michael at Mont Rochelle for a wine-pairing dinner. The experience kicks off with a tour through Mont Rochelle’s historic wine cellar, before the evening unfolds with a five-course feast and curated wines. Starts at 18h30, R1320 pp. Next dinner 4th December. countrykitchen@montrochelle.virgin.com BOOKINGS 021 876 2770 https://www.virginlimitededition.com/mont-rochelle/ SEPTEMBER 13…

In July 2026, Club Med will unveil South Africa’s first all-inclusive holiday club: Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari, on the breathtaking Dolphin Coast north of Durban. Here, golden beaches meet untamed wilderness, offering guests a unique combination of sun-soaked relaxation and Big Five safari adventure. Set across 32 hectares of dunes, coastal forests, and pristine shoreline, the Resort features 411 contemporary lodgings, including 345 rooms and 66 Ilanga suites in the Exclusive Collection. Interiors by Mobius and Parisian studio MHNA celebrate local Zulu culture with handwoven fabrics, natural palettes, and subtle graphic motifs, while large windows frame the surrounding beauty. Four pools, tropical gardens, and terraces create the perfect backdrop for daytime bliss or evening cocktails. Dining is a journey: Oceana serves globally inspired dishes, while Nguni Gourmet…

Vergelegen, in the heart of Somerset West, is a magical wine estate, famous for its glorious gardens and breathtaking mountain views. Whether you’re planning a book club get-together, a year-end office party, a conference, or a spectacular wedding, Vergelegen offers a variety of stylish venues to suit your event. RIVERSIDE CONSERVATORY: Imagine an elegant glass conservatory next to the tranquil Lourens River, seating up to 400 guests. Rain or shine, it’s a beautiful spot, with a riverside lawn — perfect for enjoying cocktails and catching up with friends, or networking with business colleagues. LAKE AND MOUNTAIN VENUE: With the Helderberg and Hottentots Holland mountain ranges as your backdrop and the calm lake reflecting their beauty, this spot is perfect for exchanging vows or enjoying preevent drinks and canapés. CAMPHOR FOREST:…