DestinationsAfrica10 Best Boutique Hotels in Franschhoek, South Africa
Best Boutique Hotels in Franschhoek, South Africa

10 Best Boutique Hotels in Franschhoek, South Africa

Are you going to Franschhoek in South Africa and you would like to stay at some of the best boutique hotels?

Yes? Perfect because the below list will help you find the best accommodation in Franschhoek to fit different budgets as well as styles.

Let’s dive straight in!

Franschhoek has some of the best accommodation in South Africa. This list will help you find the best boutique hotels to make your trip ideal! Photo credit Bonschendal.
Franschhoek has some of the best accommodation in South Africa. This list will help you find the best boutique hotels to make your trip ideal! Photo credit Bonschendal.

Intro – Franschhoek, South Africa

Franschhoek should be near the top of your travel bucket list!

Firstly, it is only an hour from Cape Town and has some of the best restaurants in Africa.

Secondly, as it is in the Cape Winelands, there are amazing wines to enjoy.

Thirdly, the town of Franschhoek itself is beautiful and historic, with boutiques and galleries as well as great restaurants. Additionally, the Franschhoek Valley has stunning views of the mountains and vineyards wherever you look.

Finally, Franschhoek has activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing, and attractions such as the world-famous Franschhoek Wine Tram.

Therefore, it is a must-visit destination for everybody! However, where should you stay?

CHECK MY GUIDE TO FRANSCHHOEK'S 10 BEST RESTAURANTS HERE

Butique Hotels in Franschhoek

Franschhoek has almost as many great boutique and luxury hotels as it does restaurants. And that is a lot! Therefore, the choice can be overwhelming!

Luckily, we have created a list of our top 10 places to stay when visiting Franschhoek.

We’ve thought about things you might want to consider such as location, budget, and the standout features of each place.

Read on to discover the best hotels Franschhoek has to offer!

CHECK MY GUIDE TO THE BEST AIRBNBS IN CAPE TOWN HERE

Top Tips

  • Plan Ahead: The best hotels, especially those smaller boutique ones in Franschhoek are booked up fast. Make sure to book your accommodation at least 6 months, if not 12 months in advance! That is particularly true especially if you are a large group.
  • Appreciate Service: It is almost expected to tip those who take special care of you during your stay. The tips are always welcomed with a big smile!
  • Book your restaurants: As soon as you have booked your accommodation in Franschhoek, book your restaurants. Those best ones get quickly booked out.

10 Best Boutique Hotels in Franschhoek, South Africa

  1. STERREKOPJE
  2. LA COTTE
  3. 7 KOPPIES FARM
  4. BOSCHENDAL
  5. LA RESIDENCE
  6. LEEU ESTATES
  7. AKADEMIE STREET HOTEL
  8. LA PETITE FERME
  9. LION ROARS
  10. IL SANTO BEVITORE

1. STERREKOPJE

BEST FOR: Luxurious healing farm

PRICE RANGE: High

Sterrekopje – a place which finally and truly justifies the sentence “heaven on earth”. I do not exaggerate when I say that this is my favorite hotel in the whole world. It feels almost strange to call it a hotel because it is so much more than that. A healing farm seems more appropriate.

Everything at Sterrekopje (‘star mountain’) is about luxurious rest and relaxation. Firstly, there are amazing activities here such as moonlit meditation, yoga in the beautiful gardens, hiking in the mountains, and wild swimming. Also, it serves local, organic dishes which are as healthy as they are tasty. However, it is just as comfortable and sophisticated as any boutique hotel.

Also, the vibe of the place is laid-back and female-led. The magic owners duo have mastered combining all that is beautiful and remarkable about South Africa, Kenya, Morocco as well as Bali.

TIP: Keep an eye out for special retreats that offer amazing activities and experiences. Sterrekopje has one, especially for families and one for ‘Wise Women’.

2. LA COTTE

BEST FOR: Affordable yet beautiful self-catering in historic manor houses close to the bustle of Franschhoek

PRICE RANGE: Medium

The cottages at La Cotte are some of the most historic in the Franschhoek Wine Valley. However, these seventeenth-century buildings have all the luxury of a boutique hotel at a modest price. Additionally, the self-catering properties let you cook the best produce in South Africa yourself. The peaceful, beautiful grounds feature old oaks and large swimming pools. Lastly, order tasty breakfasts and lunches at La Cotte’s simple but excellent restaurant.

TIP: Visit nearby Babylonstoren for fresh, local produce to bring back to your cottage and for amazing tours of the wine estate. Book it here.

3. 7 KOPPIES FARM

BEST FOR: A boutique & exclusive guesthouse away from home in the stunning Franschhoek Valley

PRICE RANGE: High

This quirky name comes from the seven beautiful hills (‘koppies’) around this luxury retreat. Therefore, it is the perfect place to find rest and relaxation in the gorgeous Western Cape countryside. Moreover, you can stay in one of its huge rooms with beautiful interior design. Also, there is a butler service! Finally, it has a 25-meter-long pool with one of the best views of the Franschhoek Valley around.

TIP: Book the Garden or Orchard rooms for unforgettable views of the Valley.

4. BOSCHENDAL

BEST FOR: Amazing farm-to-fork food at the Werf, the Deli, and the Cellar Door.

PRICE RANGE: Low to Medium

Boschendal is a great destination for the whole family. Firstly, it has accommodation to suit every need. Additionally, Boschendal’s great restaurants serve seasonal, local dishes sure to please everyone! Furthermore, the gardens and farmland are beautiful and have activities to suit kids and adults alike. Also, there are attractions such as a great spa and a modern art gallery. Finally, Boschendal often has exciting events or amazing markets. These are fun to visit and give the place a lively atmosphere.

TIP: Book to stay in one of the Werf cottages. Here, you will have access to an exclusive pool. Conveniently, they are also close to the center of the estate with its restaurants, spa, and other activities. You can book it here.

YOU CAN READ MY HONEST REVIEW OF BOSCHENDAL HERE
Boschendal has some of the best boutique accommodations you will find in Franschhoek, South Africa. Photo credit Boschendal.
Boschendal has some of the best boutique accommodations you will find in Franschhoek, South Africa. Photo credit Boschendal.

5. LA RESIDENCE

BEST FOR: One of the world’s best boutique hotels in the stunning Cape Winelands.

PRICE RANGE: High

La Residence is often on lists of the best hotels in Africa and the world! It is a luxury hotel on a farm a short walk from Franschhoek. It is not hard to see why people love it so much. Its rooms are spacious and luxurious with beautiful, unique designs. Additionally, the service from La Residence’s staff is superb. Furthermore, the hotel has a spa, a large pool with amazing views, and a restaurant serving delicious local produce. It is on the expensive side but a magical stay at La Residence is well worth it.

TIP: Families looking for privacy and comfort should book one of the Vineyard Suites. This is a set of exclusive, luxury suites very close to the main hotel.

YOU CAN BOOK LA RESIDENCE HERE

6. LEEU ESTATES

BEST FOR: A state-of-the-art spa with luxury products from South African brand Healing Earth.

PRICE RANGE: High

The Leeu Estates used to be a country house but is now a boutique hotel. Moreover, it is a wellness hotel with an amazing spa on the site. Otherwise, pick from only seventeen spacious, luxurious views. All of these have gorgeous designs and stunning views of the valley. Finally, the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinners to die for! You can book it here.

TIP: Make sure you book at the Leeu’s Dining Room restaurant. It is exclusively for guests and serves delicious South African food! 

7. AKADEMIE STREET BOUTIQUE HOTEL

BEST FOR: A boutique hotel in the center of Franschhoek, which has the best food and wine in South Africa!

PRICE RANGE: High

The Akademie Street Hotel has several beautiful cottages and suites in the heart of Franschhoek. Moreover, these are historic buildings with luxurious designs that mix old with modern. Otherwise, enjoy your own personal swimming pool or one of the wood-fired hot tubs. Additionally, the Akademie Street Hotel serves a famously delicious breakfast! Finally, the sunny gardens and courtyards are the perfect place for a homemade cocktail.

TIP: Book the Oortuiging cottage for luxurious touches such as four-poster beds, freestanding copper baths, and a private plunge pool. Furthermore, you will be staying in one of the most historic buildings in Franschhoek! Book here.

YOU CAN BOOK AKADEMIE BOUTIQUE HOTEL HERE

8. LA PETITE FERME

BEST FOR: A modern, luxury hotel close to Franschhoek’s center.

PRICE RANGE: High

La Petite Ferme is a boutique hotel just outside Franschhoek. Moreover, it is in the middle of the gorgeous Cape Winelands! Expect beautiful modern design and luxurious rooms. Also, enjoy a delicious local, seasonal dish from the luxury hotel’s restaurant. They serve breakfast and lunch during the week and all three meals at weekends. Finally, relax by the pool and try one of the estate’s very own wines! Book here.

TIP: Ask a member of staff to book you a private spa treatment in your room!

9. LION ROARS BOUTIQUE HOTEL

BEST FOR: A simple, comfortable stay right on Franschhoek’s Main Street.

PRICE RANGE: Low

The accommodation and service at the Lion Roars Hotel are rather basic. However, it has every luxury you could need, such as underfloor heating. Additionally, its central location is ideal for exploring Franschhoek’s amazing restaurants, shops, and galleries. Lastly, the well-known Franschhoek Wine Tram even stops right outside the hotel! Book here.

TIP: Look on the Lion Roars website for special packages that can get you a room in Franschhoek for the lowest price possible.

Lion Roars - a simple and cheaper boutique hotel option for your stay in Franschhoek, South Africa. Photos by Lion Roars
Lion Roars – a simple and cheaper boutique hotel option for your stay in Franschhoek, South Africa. Photos by Lion Roars

10. MONT ROCHELLE

BEST FOR: A luxurious, family-friendly hotel with some of the best views of the Franschhoek Valley around.

PRICE RANGE: High

This luxury hotel has incredible views of the surrounding Franschhoek Wine Valley. Additionally, it is only a few kilometers from the center of the town with all its attractions. Inside, the rooms of this country house are simple but elegant and comfortable. Otherwise, there is a heated pool and a great spa on the estate. Mont Rochelle has two restaurants that both serve tasty food. Miko has high-end, seasonal dishes using produce from the Western Cape. Country Kitchen has a more laid-back style and menu.

TIP: Book the Manor House for an unforgettable, luxurious stay for up to eight adults and six children. This building is incredibly spacious and comfortable. Additionally, it has perks such as a private gym and two private swimming pools! Book here.

Final Tips for finding your perfect boutique hotel in Franschhoek

In conclusion, if you had to choose the perfect hotel depending on your budget, I would recommend

First – Sterrekopje if you can splash out.

Second – La Cotte if you are ready to spend some money, but do not want to break the bank.

Finally, Boschendal can be your best find for cheaper accommodation if you book well in advance!

Yours,

Voyage Provocateur

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