It’s around this time of year that the Franschhoek Wine Valley is the place to be. The annual Bastille Day festivities have descended on the picturesque village, celebrating its rich heritage and connection to the French Hugenots, who fled to South Africa in the late-1600s.
Boschendal Wine Estate acknowledges the history of Franschhoek’s ‘French connection’ by hosting the 20th Bastille Day.
The event is a two-day occurrence, and will take place over the weekend of 16 July 2016. The wine farm has adventures planned out, and they offer the privilege of a real farm experience to visitors who stay at one of the 60 cottages on the estate. Guests are free to explore the estate, help themselves to fruit from the orchards and engage with the farmers.
Food fanatics get ready to be spoilt rotten! The winery offers a variety of distinct banquet experiences. You get to choose the environment in which you may savour your meal. Farm- or table-shared meals; it’s entirely up to you. You will be treated to traditional Cape cuisine and fresh natural produce.
This year, Simondium’s Country Lodge joins in the celebrations. They are hosting an Afri-French Market in honour of Bastille Day. Those with a sweet tooth will be thrilled to find a gourmet delight with fresh, home-baked produce. You can take the French flair home with you by purchasing exquisite French lace, embroidery, silverware and glass, and ornaments at the market.
The sale will take place from 15 July 2016 – 17 July 2016, and opens from 9:30 am until 4 pm on Friday and Saturday. Sunday it ends an hour earlier, 3 pm. Entry tickets cost R30 per adult. Kids under the age of 18 enter free of charge. Call +27 21 874 1046 for more information on the Afri-French Market.
With Bastille Day happening at the Franschhoek Wine Valley, you’ll be hitting two birds with one stone. Enjoy a getaway like you’ve always dreamed, with an opportunity to have fun and play games with family and friends. While always a busy time of year for Franschhoek, Boschendal is peaceful and allows visitors the intimacy of a small wine-obsessed village just a short drive from Cape Town.
OF NOTE
Where Boschendal Estate, Pniel Road, Groot Drakenstein, Franschhoek
Contact +27 21 870 4206, [email protected]
Photography courtesy Boschendal Wine Estate
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