After several days holidaying in Cape Town we decided to visit the some of the nearby wine lands. We stayed in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek and enjoyed the wine tasting tours. The restaurants were great and the scenery was beautiful.

Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch is the major town in the Cape wine region.

 Dorp Sreet in Stellenbosch, South Africa

It is particularly noted for its attractive historic streets. Strolling along Dorp Street we passed many buildings in the typical  Cape Dutch architectural style.

Elegant Cape Dutch style buildings in Stellenbosch

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Franschhoek

Franschhoek lies in a valley

A short drive from Stellenbosch lies picturesque Franschhoek

John in Franschhoek, South Africa

set in a valley surrounded by scenic mountains.

Franschhoek is surrounded by mountains

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Huguenot Monument commemorates the arrival of the French settlers in Franschhoek

The French Huguenots settled in this area and the French heritage is still evident in the town today.

The Huguenot Monument in Franschhoek, South Africa

 

 

 

The Huguenot Monument at one end of the main street commemorates the arrival of the French settlers.

 

 

 

 

wine tasting in Franschhoek, South Africa

There are plenty of vineyards to visit in the area, so naturally we booked a wine tour and we enjoyed tasting the wines.

John at the start of a wine tasting session

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended restaurant

The Big Easy
http://www.ernieels.com/wines/the_big_easy_restaurant.html
Owned by Ernie Els. This historical building is on Dorp Street and offers a fantastic wine list.

Check out my recommendations for other restaurants I have enjoyed visiting whilst on holiday around the world

See more photos from our trip to Cape Town other holiday photos.