Ask a local where to find the best views in Franschhoek, and chances are the answer will be the terrace and gardens at La Petite Ferme.
Perched on the mountain flanks above this picturesque Winelands town, La Petite Ferme – ‘the little farm’ – opened its doors 40 years ago this year, and has weathered the ups and downs of the decades to remain one of the best-loved destinations in the winelands.
And this winter there’s a new reason to visit, with the newly opened Winery Suites offering a contemporary bolthole boasting bright and colourful décor combined with a nod to the Cape vernacular architecture of what was once the farm’s original wine cellar.
The farm’s heritage is reflected in the name of each new suite, from The Viognier Suite – a cultivar the farm is especially known for – to The Variation Suite named for the estate’s signature Rhône-style blend.
While the history is celebrated, the new suites are thoroughly modern, from the bold wallpaper framing the king-size beds to the steel sliding screens that separate the bathroom area from the bedroom.
Each suite features an inclusive mini-bar, with a private balcony for you to sip the farm’s Sauvignon Blanc as you soak up the valley views. The five suites also overlook a brand-new shared swimming pool available for guests.
Aside from the new Winery Suites, La Petite Ferme’s luxury accommodation also includes five Manor House Suites, sharing their own swimming pool, and five luxury Vineyard Suites, each with a private plunge pool.
But, it’s winter, so perhaps you’ll be doing less swimming and more sipping? Guests at La Petite Ferme enjoy a complimentary wine tasting, hosted in the intimate bar and lounge at set times throughout the day. A complimentary afternoon tea service is also included in each stay, available to enjoy at the fireside in the restaurant or in your room if you prefer.
All of which makes it rather tempting to stay in, right? Happily, the farm’s restaurant has also just launched their winter menu, offering a distinctly upmarket take on Winelands cuisine. With four to six options per course, it’s a ‘set menu’ of two- or three-courses, and you’ll be hard-pressed to choose.
Starters bring a contemporary take on Cape flavours, in the ‘Smoorvis’ reinterpretes here as a dim sum with kombu dashi and micro salad, or the clever presentation of traditional bobotie in ‘bitterballen’ style, served with a cilantro and mint yoghurt sauce. Portions are hearty, but don’t miss the Cape Malay butter chicken curry, or the buchu-infused pork belly with apple pearls and potato pavé.
With new rooms, a new menu but the same great views and country charm, it’s little surprise that La Petite Ferme heads into the its fifth decade looking better and brighter than ever.
Have you heard? The Spier Hotel is set for a major renovation.