The Franschhoek Cellar, located at the gateway of the Western Cape tourism hub Franschhoek, is known for high quality hospitality, but visitors will be thrilled to learn that this premier winelands destination has expanded its offering even more, with many exciting attractions still to come.
The Franschhoek Cellar incorporates the brands Franschhoek Cellar, Bellingham and Brampton, and from May 2015 introduced a number of exciting new venues on the premises to create a complete wine tourism encounter and unrivalled product offering.
Wine remains a central part of the new features, with a contemporary and inviting wine emporium where the iconic Franschhoek Cellar and Bellingham wines can be tasted. Next to the wine emporium visitors will find the stylish Bernard Premium Lounge, where tutored tastings can be reserved for groups seeking a more in-depth, personal tasting experience. This venue will soon play host to exclusive monthly master-classes led by award-winning winemaker Niël Groenewald.
Also adjacent to the wine emporium is the modern events venue. This spacious venue can accommodate 300 guests, making it one of the biggest in the region. The intimate ambience created by soft lighting makes it equally suitable for smaller groups, however, and a neutral colour palette provides the perfect canvas for any decor. An expert events manager is on hand to assist with every detail in planning the perfect function, whether it is a wedding, dinner party, corporate event or conference.
Another venue that is certain to charm visitors is Mountain View. Overlooking the breathtaking Franschhoek Mountains, it has an intimate and comfortable lounge and dining area with a bar and basic kitchen, and also houses a magnificent barrel cellar which will be used for private wine tastings. With its cosy and casually elegant feel, it is perfect for small functions and soirées. Starting in October, Mountain View will host cooking classes with The Franschhoek Cellar’s resident chef Jerry Kennedy and winemaker JD Rossouw. More information about these events will be announced imminently.
The Lapa is situated in a tranquil, rustic corner of the premises surrounded by green pastures and overlooking the scenic mountains. It offers a completely private space that can accommodate between 20 and 30 people, with conferencing facilities and a fully-equipped kitchen, as well as a thatched boma and undercover outdoor entertainment area perfect for an authentic South African braai. It is also ideal for intimate country weddings.
Luxury self-catering accommodation is also available in the form of 2 beautifully furnished cottages, Rose and Protea, which have both been remodelled to fit the contemporary, elegant style of the collective venue. These chic cottages both have two beautiful bedrooms that can each sleep four adults. They are conveniently located close to the other amenities at The Franschhoek Cellar and provide the perfect central base from which to explore the winelands. Bookings can also be made via AirBnB.
To book online:
Protea cottage: www.airbnb.com/rooms/10002297
Rose Cottage: www.airbnb.com/rooms/9782725
Allowing The Franschhoek Cellar to cater to the needs of the whole family, is its popular children’s play area. This wonderful covered facility will keep the kids busy for hours under capable childminder supervision while mom and dad enjoy the delicious food and drinks of the restaurant and beer garden flanking the play area. The restaurant boasts an inspired menu that has ensured a stream of devoted patrons, with its signature burgers and a great selection of fresh, seasonal dishes and mouth-watering snacks.
Visitors can also taste and buy the trend-setting range of Brampton wines at the Brampton Bar on a checkerboard floor area in The Platform. This old railway platform was remodelled to mimic a train carriage and offers exquisite mountain and vineyard vistas. It is a convivial space with air conditioning in summer and fireplaces in winter, perfect for celebrations of any kind and can accommodate up to 80 guests. Visitors can also enjoy the relaxing sounds of live music on weekends. Exciting new developments are coming soon to the area behind The Platform, so watch this space!
No matter what the event or occasion, The Franschhoek Cellar is consummately equipped to be the perfect host. With a selection of unique venues to fit every need, this top winelands destination seamlessly combines the charm of leisurely country life with the elegance of world-class facilities. Unsurprising then that it has become the preferred port of call for discerning local and international travellers to the Cape wine country. Contact the events team at 021 876 2086 or [email protected] for more information.
