I spent last week visiting Franschhoek for a much deserved break! With Franschhoek being so close, I’m surprised I don’t get out there more often. You can really guarantee that you’ll leave the city well behind when visiting this area!
I stayed at the quaint Residence Klein Oliphantshoek, which is a really charming 4 star establishment in the heart of the town. The location is absolutely brilliant being within walking distance of the main street but just far enough that you don’t hear any hustle and bustle. If you have been to Franschhoek you will know that it’s not very big! Most of the activity happens on Huguenot Road running down the centre of the town. The street is lined with sophisticated art galleries, side-walk cafe’s, chocolate shops and decadent bakeries – if you had to stand for a second and absorb the sights, you could easily be forgiven for thinking you were in the heart of Toulouse itself.
There is a sense of cosiness when staying at Residence Klein Oliphantshoek in that all the rooms lead onto the main living area where (in winter) there is a roaring fire and big, comfy couches with lots of cushions – perfect for a rainy day and a good book! If you’re lucky, the resident cat will come say hello and demand a back rub!
Otherwise, a lovely warm sunny day could just as well be enjoyed around the beautiful swimming pool or on the patio overlooking the lavender filled garden.
We stayed in one of the courtyard rooms which is just slightly bigger than the comfort rooms (their entry level rooms). As the name implies, the courtyard rooms have doors leading onto a beautiful flower garden where you can sit and enjoy the sunshine (in our case, it was a bit rainy, so we preferred the fire place). The suites are all individually designed and perfect for those who have certain tastes or require a bit more space and comfort.
Another unique aspect about this establishment is that there is a walk-in kitchen where they will serve the breakfasts in the mornings and where the chef will do his delightful cooking in the evenings. The food is very good and we decided to go for the Winter Special which is currently on offer for R135 per person (3-course meal without wine) or R150 per person (3-course meal with a glass of wine). After dinner, it’s really pleasant being able to chat over a glass of wine around the fireplace in the lounge – very cosy to say the least.
If you would rather try the other restaurants in the area, the well-known Reuben’s is just around the corner as well as The Tasting Room (at Le Quartier Francais) – both within 5 minutes walking distance from Residence Klein Oliphantshoek.
I would sincerely recommend this establishment – it’s a good 4 star standard and is in a great location! The atmosphere is warm and cosy and the prices are really affordable.
