It’s the time of the year when a lot of people start to feel a slump coming on. Maybe it’s the cold, rainy days and kids getting cooped up inside the house, maybe it’s just the grind of everyday life and the last holiday feeling like a distant memory. The good news is that it is school break…and so is family fun that will take the edge off. Head to beautiful Franschhoek this school holiday and experience a wealth of entertaining activities that will lift the spirits of kids and mom and dad alike –

Start your journey at the portal to the Franschhoek Valley and its ultimate winter destination, The Franschhoek Cellar. Boasting an unrivalled family vibe, it has a fantastic enclosed play area supervised by seasoned child minders. There is also a special kids section on Chef Jerry Kennedy’s legendary menu, which is known for mouth-watering snacks, burgers and delicious seasonal fare. In winter it gets particularly cosy in The Franschhoek Cellar’s Platform venue, with crackling fireplaces and the best hot chocolate in town, as well as many more heart-warming treats just waiting to be enjoyed.

On the topic of sweet indulgence, Franschhoek is not only famous for its exceptional wines, but also for superior artisanal chocolate. Huguenot Fine Chocolates offers a 30 min chocolate tour for small groups which covers the history of chocolate, a demo of chocolate-making, tasting and a small gift. Sounds like a sure-fire way to keep chocoholics of all ages deliriously happy.

If the weather allows, treat your family to an outdoor adventure – Franschhoek style!

For a quintessential Franschhoek family outing, try trout fishing at La Ferme. The Wemmers River runs through the farm, and they also have dams stocked with different species. Fishing permits and rods available at the farm.

If cycling is your thing, there is a 7 kilometer off-road tarred path running from De Villiers Street (opposite The Franschhoek Cellar as you drive into the village) to the Wemmershoek/Berg River Dam crossroads. Guided tours in association with Franschhoek Cycles are also available.

Another way to explore the scenic winelands around town is via horseback. Paradise Stables offers a variety of tours for riders of all ages and aptitude. They even have wine-tasting rides!

After all this physical action, gear down to a more leisurely pace at Franschhoek’s favourite local market and convivial meeting place, The Franschhoek Village Market. The market takes place every Saturday morning (weather permitting) in the center of town, and hosts a number of high-quality traders offering a wide variety of products.  Here you’ll find everything from live music, fun activities for kids, deli treats, hand-made clothing and crafts to name but a few.

And finally, no visit to Franschhoek would be complete without a trip on the local Wine Tram. This hop-on, hop-off tram is a fun and very pretty way to explore the fabled winelands of Franschhoek. There are currently five routes to choose from, each visiting eight wine estates and showcasing a separate part of the valley.

Whatever tickles your fancy, find your way to Franschhoek this winter holidays. Your family, and frame of mind, will be all the more carefree and revitalised for it!

To make bookings contact us at: [email protected] / 021 876 2086