Kristen Carnes Photography

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South Africa Winelands {Travel Photography}

The South Africa’s winelands are located on the Western Cape nestled in gorgeous rolling hills and mountains, hands down one of the most picturesque places I have ever been! We decided to stay in the quaint old town of Franschhoek. In 1688 French Huguenot refugees began populating the valley establishing farms and businesses bringing with them their experience in agriculture. The name of the area soon changed to le Coin Français ("the French Corner"), and later to Franschhoek (Dutch for "French Corner"), with many of the settlers naming their new farms after the areas in France from which they came.  La Motte, Champagne, La Cotte, Cabrière, La Provence, Bourgogne, La Terra de Luc and La Dauphine were among some of the first established farms — most of which still retain their original Cape Dutch farm houses today. These farms have grown into renowned wineries.

with a population of only 15,000 Franschhoek has the most spectacular food and wine scene, you can truly eat and drink your way through this small town. My favorite meal was lunch at La Petite Ferme perched on the hillside overlooking vineyards and the cape-dutch countryside. The food was not only exquisite but all delicious and perfectly paired with their well crafted wines. After lunch we were able to walk down the road to another lovely spot, Haute Cabriere where we tasted some beautiful dry white wines, rose & Pinot Noir. We finished our afternoon by visiting Grand Provence Estate & Winery which was established in Franschhoek in 1694. Their grounds showcased the Cape-Dutch architecture of this region and some incredible local art pieces. My love of great food, wine and a beautiful backdrop found it’s perfect place in Franschhoek!

Our cute AirBnB: