| Franschhoek |
Website Links For Franschhoek |
Information AboutFranschhoek |
| CATEGORIES ABOUT FRANSCHHOEK, WESTERN CAPE | |
| wine regions of south africa | |
| towns in western cape, south africa | |
| huguenot history | |
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Franschhoek is a small town in the Western Cape Province and one of the oldest towns of the Republic Of South Africa . The valley was originally settled in 1688 by French Huguenot refugees, many of whom were given land by the Dutch government in a valley called Olifantshoek (Elephants Corner), so named because of the vast herds of elephants that roamed the area. HISTORY The name of the area soon changed to Franschhoek (French Corner). Many of the settlers named their new farms after the areas in France from which they came. La Motte, La Cotte, Cabriere, Provence, Chamonix, Dieu Donne and La Dauphine were among some of the first established farms - most of which still retain their original farm houses. These farms have grown into regionally renowned Wineries . This heritage lives on today with the Huguenot monument standing proudly at the top of the village. The museum nearby chronicles the history of the first settlers, with each of the original Huguenot farms having its own fascinating story to tell. The Cape Dutch architecture in much of the village is unspoiled with restrictions having been placed on the extent of renovations and new construction, to keep in the spirit of the original settlers to the area. RECENT DEVELOPMENTS Once a sleepy country retreat, the village began experiencing a boom during the 1990's, which continues today. The construction of a new English-medium private school, Bridge House School , outside the village attracted many urban dwellers to the village, and property prices began to soar. Franschhoek is notable for having some of the top restaurants in the country within its quiet borders. This fact, together with the strong wine culture, and pristine natural and architectural beauty has made Franschhoek into what many describe as "The Food and Wine Capital" of South Africa The attributes of the village have turned Franschhoek into a tourist mecca, with dozens of B&B's and small cottages available for accommodation at premium prices. The idyllic summer weather, snowy peaks in winter and proximity to Cape Town have turned Franschhoek into one of South Africa's most sought after residential addresses. SEE ALSO EXTERNAL LINKS |
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