We may receive a commission if you make purchases through affiliate links (at no extra cost to you). Read why our approach to travel is different.
The small wine region of Franschhoek just beyond the famous Stellenbosch and only about an hour and 15 minutes from Cape Town has developed into an oasis for all types of travelers over the years. It’s no surprise that there is now a huge number of options for accommodation in Franschhoek, and the best boutique hotels in Franschhoek know that lodging in the area is part of what makes the experience so great.
And the reason why lodging is so important in Franschhoek is because the region is blessed with stunning mountain views and delicious food. We firmly believe that this is one of the few places in the world that makes you want to pause and just take in the natural beauty of the area. We’ve put together this list to make sure that you get the quintessential Franschhoek experience, irrespective of your budget.
Skip to...
Ultra high-end/luxury
La Residence ($$$$$)
We’re not sure there is a more picture-perfect hotel in the entire world. La Residence is the crème de la crème, offering an experience that goes far beyond lodging to be an experience in and of itself. The hotel was closed for some time on account of a flood that destroyed much of the land, but it has come back to life with even more vigour than before – and it is absolutely one of the best boutique hotels in Franschhoek.
La Residence is located on a private 30-acre estate that is perfectly positioned for you to enjoy the best views of Franschhoek Valley. It’s also located very close to a number of the best wineries in Franschhoek, which means it’s easy to start the day with their incredible breakfast and get straight into hopping between wine farms.
The team behind La Residence has created a thing of beauty when viewed from any and every angle. La Residence really is grandeur, opulence and beauty all in one, and it will no doubt enter your list of best stays.
Of the many stunning sights within the private estate, there is a plum orchard where you can go pick plums directly from the tree which taste so much better. The team is always happy to get you around the estate including to the Great Hall and animal farm, and they’re serious about their service standard because the hotel can only accommodate 22 people.
Make sure you carve out a bit of time in your stay to visit The Curio Shop which sells some of the finest goods you can find in the region. And beyond that, you won’t get your money’s worth unless you bask in the warm African sun in a sunlounge.
High-end
Leeu Estates ($$$$)
Leeu Estates consistently delivers a premium experience for every guest, and the team has done that through everything from the small touches to the grand gestures. There is exciting and interesting art pieces located all over the property, and the views from every room are absolutely stunning which makes it one of the best boutique hotels in Franschhoek.
Leeu Estates is also home to La Petite Colombe, one of the best restaurants in Franschhoek. So even if you’re not staying in Leeu Estates itself, you’ll be able to experience the magic of it by booking lunch or dinner at La Petite Colombe.
Mont Rochelle ($$$)
Mont Rochelle is famously part of the Virgin group of hotels which also runs some of the best safari lodges in Kruger National Park, so you know you’re in good hands at Mont Rochelle. Like all of the best boutique hotels in Franschhoek, there is a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and vineyards which will excite you for getting out in the day and experiencing the best of Franschhoek.
If you’re traveling with a big group or family, Mont Rochelle also offers a standalone four-bedroom villa called The Manor House. But even if you’re staying in the hotel, you’ll still get a grade A experience with views of the Klein Dassenberg Mountain Range.
La Clé Lodge ($$$)
If you’re looking for a truly boutique experience, La Clé Lodge is a charming boutique hotel in Franschhoek with only five rooms. For what they lack in size, they make up for in unrivalled service and warm hospitality. And beyond that, the breakfast is beautifully done with clear attention to detail and an emphasis on local produce.
If you plan on doing the Franschhoek Wine Tram, there is a wine tram stop located at the end of the road that La Clé is on which makes it the perfect base to explore the winelands. And if you’re the type that prefers to be closer to town, La Clé is just minutes away from the town center.
Medium class
La Petite Ferme ($$$)
La Petite Ferme holds the dual honor of being one of the best boutique hotels in Franschhoek and also one of the best restaurants in Franschhoek. It is also often heard from locals that La Petite Ferme is the jewel in Franschhoek as it combines the majestic mountain views with the spoils of the amazing wine culture and fresh food produce.
If you choose to stay at La Petite Ferme, the team are well trained in the local vineyards, so make sure to ask them what their favorites of the season are.
La Cotte ($$)
La Cotte is wonderfully affordable, especially given that you still get stunning views of Franschhoek Valley while also being only a moment away from the fun of the main street of Franschhoek. Your stay at La Cotte will be at the Orchard Cottages, Forest Cottages, The Manor House Hotel or at the private villa.
If you’re able to choose, locals know that the Orchard Cottages offer the best value for money, with each having a private pool and a glorious veranda looking out to the valley. But irrespective of where you stay, you’ll be treated to a tranquil space of your own surrounded by the stunning vineyards that you will invite you to explore them.
Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa ($$)
Quiet and unassuming, Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa offers an elevated experience without the price tag. You’ll still be situated right in the heart of it all, and you won’t be sacrificing any of the pleasures that make Franschhoek such an incredible place to be. The staff will go out of their way to make your time at Le Franschhoek joyous, so make sure to tap into their knowledge.
Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa is also located close to the town of Franschhoek so you’ll have many more dining options available to you without having to trek to the wine farms.
Share This Article
Traveling soon? Subscribe to The Insight below and get exclusive access to our personalized travel advice community via WhatsApp so you can ask all your burning travel questions.
Looking for the best comprehensive travel insurance? SafetyWing has you covered.
And for your eSIM in every country, there is only one option we recommend: Airalo.
Read more of our best insights from around the world