Autumn at La Residence

Red, gold and green…

The Franschhoek Valley is beautiful at any time of year, but never more so than in autumn. It’s certainly one of our favourite times of year, and not just because of the breathtaking scenery and spectacular colours of the trees and vineyards. It’s also the perfect season to simply cosy up next to the fire or to enjoy the very best of the Franschhoek lifestyle, from cuisine to culture. Here are just a few Franschhoek fall highlights for you to enjoy during your perfect stay at La Residence.

“Autumn carries more gold it its pocket than all the other seasons” – Jim Bishop

Left: Embracing autumn’s vibrant vineyard view; Right: Autumn relaxation next to the fire

Where history comes to life

Franschhoek has a rich history and heritage, and autumn is the perfect time to explore it. For a slice of more recent history, take a drive down memory lane at the Franschhoek Motor Museum as you discover the displays of historic vehicles and motorbikes, and automotive memorabilia. You can also go much further back in time at the Huguenot Monument, where displays tell the story of the French refugees who founded the town of Franschhoek, and introduced many of the winemaking techniques that began traditions that have continued to this day.

Spend a morning at the Franschhoek Motor Museum

Nothing is more French than Bastille Day – and it’s celebrated in Franschhoek with just as much fervour as it is in Paris. If you’ll be staying at La Residence (specifically on July 13th and 14th) you’ll have the chance to take part in the joyful atmosphere.

Keep your cool

The combination of cooler weather and gorgeous autumn colours mean that fall is a wonderful time to hike the many trails around La Residence, including the route up Mont Rochelle (Jonkershoek). The path to the summit is not as taxing as when it’s hot, and the valley views are definitely Instagram-worthy as the vine and tree leaves transition from green to more fiery shades.

If you enjoy horseback riding, then you’ll simply love the experience of
a scenic ride through the vineyards, forests and mountains surrounding
Franschhoek.

Left: Venture into the mountains; Right: Journey through the farmlands on horseback

Turn over a new leaf

If you enjoy a good read – and you enjoy deep diving into plots and character development with other bookworms and South African and international authors – then May sees a must-attend event. The renowned Franschhoek Literary Festival offers an immersive experience, but we won’t give too much away as no true reader wants to have the plot twist revealed before they turn the last page. We can however let you know that this year’s festival will take place from May 17th – 19th.

Celebrating the harvest

The fertile soils, gentle rains and sunshine of the Franschhoek Valley make it a perfect setting in which to grow grapes… and many other fruits, and vegetables.

Then there’s the artisanal cheese, pickles, preserves… enough to fill a great many market stalls – and it does! Three of our favourites are the Boschedndal Friday Market, the Weekend Market on the main street of Franschhoek as and the market at Blaauklippen. That’s three days of great markets each week, and plenty of opportunities to experience the tastes of the Franschhoek Valley.

Autumn’s rich palette surrounding La Residence

During this time of year, we highly recommend embracing the simple pleasure of spending autumn days at La Residence. Whether you opt for a wine tasting, a tranquil picnic by the pond, or our renowned afternoon tea experience with your loved one, each moment assures warmth and enjoyment.

These are just some of the autumn highlights in the Franschhoek Valley – book your perfect stay at La Residence to experience the best of this wonderful region.