When guests arrive at Franschhoek Country House & Villas, one of the first things they ask is: “What are the best experiences nearby?” That’s exactly why we put together this guide – to share the best of Franschhoek, from wine estates and walking trails to art, food, and easy day trips.

Some guests are here for the wine – others for the walking trails, the food, the art, the scenery, or just the feeling of slowing things down. What we’ve found is that most people don’t want to venture too far – and you don’t have to.

Everything listed below is either right here in Franschhoek or just a short drive from Franschhoek Country House – ideal if you’re looking for things to do nearby during your stay. No long detours, no tourist traps – just real, worthwhile experiences that pair beautifully with the calm and comfort of staying here.

We’ve broken it up by interest so you can browse through, pick your favourites, and plan your stay, your way. And if you’d rather not plan at all – our team is always here to help. Franschhoek Country House Villas Golf

Tee Off at World-Class Golf Courses

For many guests, golf is part of enjoying the Franschhoek experience – a quiet luxury between wine tastings. If a morning on the green sounds like your idea of downtime, you’re in good company. Many of our return guests build a round of golf into their stay – not as a main event, but as a quiet luxury between wine tastings and slow afternoons.

Pearl Valley is the one we hear about most – a championship course designed by Jack Nicklaus, about 30 minutes from the estate. It’s immaculate, well-run, and scenic enough to forgive the odd bunker. You’ll need to book ahead, especially in peak season, but it’s always worth the drive.

Closer in, Boschenmeer offers a more relaxed round, with wide fairways and beautiful mountain views. It’s great for couples, groups, or anyone looking to fit in 9 holes without rushing breakfast.

And for something with a bit of heritage, Stellenbosch Golf Club is one of the oldest in the country. The course itself is well maintained, but it’s the atmosphere – mature trees, slower rhythm – that our guests tend to remember.

If you’d like help booking a tee time, arranging transport, or hiring clubs, just let us know. We’re always happy to organise the details. 

Hike Through Vineyards, Forests & Mountain Passes

Hiking here isn’t just exercise – it’s one of the best ways to take in Franschhoek’s scenery, from vineyard trails to sweeping mountain passes. You don’t need to be a serious hiker to enjoy the scenic trails near Franschhoek accommodation – there’s something here for everyone. What makes this valley so special is the range of walking routes that cater to all energy levels. Some are more of a gentle ramble, others offer a proper climb – but all of them deliver views worth slowing down for.

Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve is just above the village and one of our top recommendations. You can choose from a few different routes depending on how far you want to go, but even the shorter ones give you panoramic views across the valley. It’s peaceful, uncrowded, and a lovely way to start the day.

If you’re looking for something a little more off the radar, the Berg River Dam trail is quiet and wild, especially midweek. If you enjoy scenic mountain drives too, you might also like our piece on the Western Cape’s most breathtaking passes. You’ll often have the path to yourself – just birdsong, water, and fynbos for company.

And then there’s the La Motte Historic Walk, which combines gentle terrain with a bit of cultural context. It’s ideal for anyone who enjoys walking with a story – and it pairs well with a wine tasting afterwards.

We can help with directions, trail maps, permits, or even pack you a breakfast picnic if you’d like to set off early.

Explore Franschhoek by Bike – Scenic Trails & Wine Routes

There’s something freeing about cycling through the Winelands – the breeze in your face, vineyards on either side, and that quiet sense of distance you can’t get in a car. Whether you’re after a casual ride or something more technical, there’s a trail here with your name on it.

Boschendal’s MTB routes are a great place to start – well-marked, beautifully maintained, and suitable for all levels. You’ll find everything from gentle farm loops to more adventurous climbs with sweeping views. They also offer bike rentals and a farm café that’s perfect for a post-ride coffee.

Closer to the village, the Franschhoek Trail Network offers a mix of gravel roads, single track, and country paths that wind through orchards, vineyards, and quiet backroads. It’s a lovely way to explore the area at your own pace.

We’ve also seen more guests opting for e-bike wine tours, which combine guided cycling with tastings along the way. It’s a fun, easy-going experience – no Lycra required – and a brilliant way to spend a sunny morning.

Let us know if you’d like to book bikes, arrange a guide, or get a few route suggestions based on your comfort level. We’ll make sure you’re set up for a great ride.

Art, History & Hidden Cultural Gems

Not every day needs to be busy. Some of our guests prefer slower mornings – browsing galleries, sitting with a coffee, and letting the rhythm of the village take the lead. If you’re looking for Franschhoek activities for guests that don’t require much planning, exploring the village’s art and cultural scene is a great place to start.

The Huguenot Memorial Museum is a good starting point – it’s small, sincere, and gives you a real sense of the town’s roots. The surrounding gardens are peaceful, and the museum itself is easy to explore in under an hour.

Then there are the local galleries and sculpture gardens, many of which are just a short walk from the main street. You’ll find contemporary pieces, classic Cape works, and often the artists themselves pottering about behind the scenes.

We also recommend popping into one or two of the craft studios tucked away between boutiques – there’s real talent in this valley, and it shows in the ceramics, textiles, and handwork you’ll come across.

If the weather isn’t playing along, or you’re in the mood for something gentler, this is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. And if you’re not sure where to start, we’re always happy to point you towards something interesting.

Boutique Shopping & Market Finds in the Village

Franschhoek might be small, but the shopping here is thoughtful. You won’t find big brands or chain stores – just a collection of boutiques, galleries, and markets where every item feels a little more considered. It’s a lovely way to spend an hour or two if you’re browsing for boutique shopping in Franschhoek.

Many of our guests enjoy a slow stroll through the village in the late morning or early afternoon – no pressure to buy, just browsing with a coffee in hand and seeing what catches the eye.

There are fashion boutiques with carefully curated pieces, homeware stores full of handmade treasures, and artisanal shops selling everything from olive oils to hand-stitched linens. If you’re looking for a gift to take home (or just something lovely for yourself), you’re in the right place.

Weekends usually bring local markets, where you’ll find fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and often live music in the background. You can also check out our guide to Franschhoek Events & Festivals in 2025 for more seasonal happenings and markets. It’s a great place to pick up a few snacks for your room or just soak in the local atmosphere.

If there’s a particular kind of store you’re after – or a market happening while you’re in town – we’re happy to help you plan your route.

Horseback Riding & Wine Tasting – A Day to Remember

If you’re after something a bit special – something you won’t find in a brochure – a full-day horseback wine tasting might just be it. It’s one of those experiences that sounds like a novelty until you try it, and then becomes a holiday highlight.

You’ll be matched with a gentle, well-trained horse and a local guide who knows both the trails and the vineyards. The pace is easy – no galloping or drama – just a relaxed ride through scenic farmland, with stops at a few handpicked wine estates along the way.

It’s a fantastic outing for couples, groups of friends, or even first-time riders who want to try something a little different. The wine tastings are generous, the scenery is unforgettable, and there’s a certain joy in arriving at a cellar door on horseback.

Most tours include equipment, training, and transfers – and we’re more than happy to take care of the arrangements for you. Just let us know the kind of experience you’re after, and we’ll handle the rest.

Slow Days at the Estate – No Itinerary Required

Not every experience needs a booking. Slow days at the estate remind you that some of Franschhoek’s real highlights are found right on your doorstep. Some of the best moments at Franschhoek Country House & Villas happen right here on the property – no schedule, no rush, just time to enjoy the space around you.

Start with a slow breakfast on the terrace, where fresh fruit, baked pastries, and locally roasted coffee set the tone for the day. Then take a quiet walk through the gardens, or find a sunny spot with a book and settle in. If you’d like a visual preview of what awaits, explore our estate gallery.

Our Treatment Room at Franschhoek Country House is designed to help you fully unwind – with personalised treatments that ease you into the pace of the valley. Treatments can be booked in advance or on the day, depending on availability.

If the sun’s out, the poolside loungers are hard to resist – especially with a glass of something chilled and a good view. And when it comes to dinner, Monneaux Restaurant is just a few steps away, serving seasonal dishes in an elegant but relaxed setting.

Some guests never leave the estate – and honestly, we understand why.

Wine Estates & Tasting Rooms Nearby

If you’re looking for wine tasting near Franschhoek hotels, you’ll be pleased to know that some of the valley’s most beloved estates are just minutes from our doorstep. Just beautiful settings, honest winemaking, and tastings that linger well into the afternoon.

Babylonstoren is a guest favourite – not just for the wine, but for the gardens, bakery, and overall atmosphere. It’s a full sensory experience and well worth a visit, especially if you enjoy pairing tastings with farm-to-table bites. For a more family-friendly view of the Winelands, you might enjoy our guide to exploring the Cape with little ones.

GlenWood offers something a little more intimate – tucked away and peaceful, with a focus on elegant whites and friendly, down-to-earth service. Guests often mention how unpretentious and welcoming it feels.

Rickety Bridge and La Motte are both close by and easy to include in a half-day outing. Rickety Bridge has a casual charm, while La Motte combines heritage with beautifully structured tastings in a refined setting.

If you’re unsure where to start – or if you’d like to map out a route – we’re happy to help. From transport to tasting bookings, we’ll make sure everything runs smoothly so you can focus on the good stuff.

Hop On the Wine Tram – A Classic Franschhoek Experience

If you’re wondering what to do in Franschhoek without needing to drive, the Franschhoek Wine Tram is one of the most relaxing and scenic ways to explore the valley. It’s one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore the valley — no maps, no designated driver, and no pressure to plan too much in advance.

Each route stops at a mix of handpicked wine estates, with plenty of time at each stop to relax, taste, and take it all in. You can hop on and off as you like, enjoy a long lunch, or simply sit back and enjoy the ride through vineyards and mountains.

There’s a tram station just a short distance from the hotel, and we’ll gladly help you choose a route that suits your pace — from bigger estates to smaller boutique farms with a more personal feel.

The only thing we do suggest? Don’t leave your booking too late. The tram fills up quickly over weekends and in summer, so if you’re thinking about it, chat to us early. We’ll take care of the arrangements and share a few insider favourites while we’re at it.

Eat Like a Local – Foodie Favourites in the Valley

Franschhoek’s food scene is one of the reasons so many of our guests return year after year. It’s not just the fine dining – though there’s plenty of that – it’s the mix of honest flavours, thoughtful ingredients, and chefs who still cook with heart.

If you’re celebrating something (or simply in the mood to indulge), places like La Petite Colombe, Le Coin Français, and Epice offer a tasting menu experience you’ll remember long after the last course. For a few highlights from our own kitchen, have a look at the Top 5 Dishes at Monneaux. They book up quickly, so we’re happy to help secure a table ahead of time.

For something more casual but still full of character, try the farm-to-table cafés, bakeries, and wine estate kitchens dotted around the village and valley. Many of them use local produce, bake their own bread, and grow what they serve – no fuss, just good food done properly. You can browse the current Monneaux seasonal menu for inspiration.

We also love pointing guests toward a few hidden gems – a tiny bistro with a great local following, a weekend bakery market with the best croissants in town, or a shaded terrace that’s perfect for a long, lazy lunch.

If food’s part of your holiday (and for most people, it is), you’ll be well looked after here. And if you’re not sure where to start, we’ll happily match your appetite to a spot that fits.

Day Trips to Stellenbosch, Paarl & Elgin

While there’s plenty to enjoy close by, we often recommend day trips from Franschhoek guest houses to places like Stellenbosch, Paarl, or Elgin – all within easy reach.

Stellenbosch is the obvious first choice – a university town with deep wine roots, historic streets, and a buzzing café scene. You can spend the morning browsing art galleries, do a wine tasting at one of the nearby estates, and still be back by mid-afternoon.

Paarl tends to be quieter and a bit more spread out, but it’s full of hidden gems – lesser-known cellars, local delis, and beautiful mountain drives. If you enjoy a slower pace and discovering places off the main route, it’s worth exploring.

And then there’s Elgin – known for its cool-climate wines, orchards, and rugged beauty. It feels different from the Winelands, more forested and earthy. If you’re after something scenic and slightly unexpected, Elgin delivers. You’ll find more inspiration in our Ultimate Summer Retreat guide – ideal for pairing with day trips.

We can help you plan a half-day or full-day itinerary depending on how much time you want to spend on the road – including stops, directions, and a few suggestions that don’t always make it onto the map.

We’ll Help You Plan It All

You don’t need to figure everything out before you arrive. In fact, most guests only decide what they feel like doing once they’ve had a good night’s sleep, a proper breakfast, and a sense of the weather.

Whether it’s a full-day wine tour, a last-minute dinner reservation, or just a scenic drive with a few stops along the way – our team is here to help. You can contact our team anytime – we’re here to help with bookings, transport, and more. We’ve spent years getting to know the valley, and we’re always happy to share local favourites, make bookings, and handle the small details so you don’t have to.

No pressure, no fixed schedule – just thoughtful recommendations, tailored to how you like to travel.

If something catches your eye, let us know. And if you’d rather leave it open and decide on the day, that works too. And if you’re thinking about staying longer, explore our latest Franschhoek accommodation specials. However you choose to spend your time, you’ll find the highlights of Franschhoek come alive when paired with the calm and comfort of staying at Franschhoek Country House.

Let Us Help You Make the Most of It

If you’re still deciding what to do during your stay, don’t stress – that’s part of the fun. Some guests arrive with a plan, others figure it out over coffee on the terrace.

Either way, we’re happy to help. From dinner bookings to day trips, we’ll put together a few ideas that match the kind of pace you’re after.

You’re welcome to get in touch if you’d like to start planning. Or have a look at our accommodation specials if your dates are still flexible.

We’ll sort the details. You just show up and enjoy the valley.