For the non South African readers, Franschhoek is a village about 75km from Cape Town situated in the middle of the most beautiful mountains. The village was founded by French Huguenots fleeing religious persecution in the 1600's and is surrounded by historical vineyards which are still producing wonderful wines to this day. Even before the Huguenots of course were the Khoi and the San Bushmen, descendents of whom still live in the valley along with the descendents of the French families.
On a grey and wet morning we arrived at La Cotte House which has recently been renovated and restored to, surely more than, it's past glory by Dom and his team.
Luxurious and stylish, definitely, but never intimidating and always comfortable. To spend time here with a group of friends or family - you could not ask for a more accommodating and effortlessly friendly weekend destination. Have a look at the website - www.lacottefarm.com - you'll see what I mean.
The sun soon came out and the rest of the guests arrived for lunch. Delicious food, lots of wine, great conversation, a lot of laughter.
A quick walk around the farm to see the work in progress Forest Cottages, then it was time to head into Franschhoek. On the farm you feel as though you are far from civilisation but in reality, it's a quick 5 minute drive into the village.
John's work is magnificent! I have some pieces from years back and I'm going to hold on to them! They will be (are already) collector's pieces. That evening we grilled him about his methods and suffice to say - Unique! Want to see more - http://www.johnnewdigate.com/
It was lovely to see some old friends and to meet some new ones. More champagne was drunk - obligatory in Franschhoek.
Back to the farm and in time for the beautiful evening light.
Sigh ...
The next day we made a quick stop at Boschendal for lunch and a walk around on a very hot day before heading back to Cape Town and a flight back to the cold the next day.
Thank you my friends! Next year in Greece?
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