Franschhoek situated in the winelands region of the Western Cape was established more than three centuries ago by about 200 French Huguenots. They had just escaped religious persecution and settled in the Berg River Valley and founded the community of Franschhoek. With its fine balmy summers and the majority of its rainfall in winter, the French Huguenots recognised the potential of the region for wine production and fruit growing.
The French established vast wine estates throughout the Franschhoek valley. Today you will not only find many of these estates but also numerous small family vineyards. Sixteen of these vineyards form part of the Vignerons de Franschhoek which was formed to promote the valley and its wines. The Franschhoek wine route is open for tastings and cellar tours and is within half an hour's drive from Stellenbosch, Paarl, Wellington and Somerset West wine routes. Franschhoek also forms part of the scenic Four Passes Fruit Route.
Franschhoek is often referred to as "the gourmet capital of the Cape" and this title is justly deserved as it has some of the finest restaurants in the country. With meals ranging from French cuisine, to typical Cape cooking, to simple country fare, there is a menu for every taste and for every pocket.
Pearl Lodge is situated amongst all these natural wonders on one of South Africa's most exclusice golf estates - Jack Nicklaus Signature Pearl Valley. Playing a round of golf on this course is in itself an experience unique to Africa and the Franschhoek tradition.
All the noble cultivars and classic styles are on show here. From superb whites such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon and Chenin Blanc to the rich reds of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinot Noir and Merlot. Not to mention the valley's renowned methode Cap Classique Sparkling wines and Ports. And you'll be happy to know most farms readily welcome visitors for tastings.
The Villa
This bright, modern and spacious house overlooks the Pearl Valley Golf Course and surrounding mountains. The house offers three en-suite bedrooms and a large beautiful open-plan living and dining area. It comfortably sleeps six people.
Facilities
Sleep maximum 6 persons, 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms
Fully equipped kitchen and scullery with washing machine & tumble dryer
Living room (wood fire place, television, VCR and DSTV satellite)
Large dining room
A separate covered pool terrace and outdoor entertainment area
Veranda overlooking the surrounding countryside
Guests are required to bring their own beach towels, food and charcoal
The villa is serviced daily if required
Included
The rates are quoted per couple/persons sharing and include the self catering accommodation, use of a VW Polo hired vehicle, a round of golf every 2’nd day of stay and cleaning services
High Season
Rate per couple per day from R 1300.00 (approx. €175)
Low Season
Rate per couple per day from R 900.00 (approx. €120)
Rates are subject to amount of people in group, number and class of vehicles used, amount of golf played and use of golf carts. Early bookings are advised due to high occupancy and demand throughout the year.
Wine & Dine
Franschhoek is one of the premier destinations in the World of Wine not only for its spectacular beauty but also for its high quality, award-winning wines. With its French wine heritage and excellent climate this valley became one of the earliest wine producing regions in the Cape. Today, this noble tradition is continued by the members of the Vignerons de Franschhoek, an association of twenty-one wine farmers (including some of South Africa's most respected winemakers) who produce many of the country's finest red, white and sparking wine.
But Franschhoek's finer tastes don't end with wine. The picturesque valley also offers some of South Africa's most acclaimed restaurants and with everything from delicious Cape country fare to sublime French cuisine, it's not surprising that the area if known as the "Wine and Food Capital of the Cape". There's a menu here for every taste, and every pocket.
