A day in Franschhoek

Babylonstoren Gardens, located in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is a historic farm and garden that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and contemporary farming practices. Established in 1692, Babylonstoren boasts one of the best-preserved Cape Dutch farmyards and a stunning 8-acre garden inspired by the historic Company’s Garden in Cape Town.

The gardens feature a diverse array of plant species, including fruit orchards, vegetable patches, indigenous plants, and fragrant herb gardens, all arranged in a visually appealing and functional layout. Visitors can explore winding pathways, tranquil ponds, and scenic vistas, experiencing the farm’s rich biodiversity and seasonal changes. There’s also an excellent on-site restaurant, and an elegant farm shop that sells local foods and homewares.

They offer daily walking tours guided by the estate horticulturists. These showcase both the sustainable farming techniques and the historical significance of the estate.

A must for gardeners and food-to-table devotees.

Showcasing over 200 classic cars from the Rupert family’s private collection, petrolheads can delve into a century of motoring history, from South Africa’s first Model T Ford to the rare Ferrari Enzo. It’s open daily, but you must book an appointment via the website before you go. You can also book a ride in a classic car.

The best way to explore this fantastic, world-class wine region is on the Wine Tram.

This charismatic hop on hop off experience allows you to visit multiple wineries in one day – as and when you please – without having to worry about getting home afterwards. Vineyards on the route offer wine tastings, cellar and vineyard tours, exceptional dining – and world-class wine. Along the way, your driver will tell you the history of wine production in the valley.

There are five equally excellent routes to choose from, each stopping at 7-8 vineyards, though usually 3 to 4 visits are enough in one day. Highlights to look out for include Sir Richard Branson’s Mont Rochelle (Blue line) and Babylonstoren (orange line).

The concept was inspired by the history of the Franschhoek branch line, which dates back to 1904 and was originally used to transport wine and produce from the valley to Cape Town. It’s all run by a private company dedicated to promoting the region’s rich wine heritage.

Franschhoek is an easy day trip from Cape Town  – see our recommended tours below. They’ll arrange everything for you, including dropping you off and picking you up from the start/end points of the Wine Tram, with return transfers from the city to Franschhoek.

This small museum, opened in 2012, showcases the history of perfume through an extensive collection of rare antique bottles, vintage advertisements, and classic fragrances, and offers visitors an immersive experience into the art of perfume-making.