Franschhoek

Source

Considered the food and wine heartland of South Africa, Franschhoek was settled 300 years ago by the Huguenots. After the Edict of Nantes was revoked in France in 1685, and Protestantism was outlawed, hundreds of French Protestants fled their homeland, with some 275 of them arriving by ship at the Cape of Good Hope. The Dutch government gave them land in a valley called Oliphantshoek (Elephant Corner), so named because of the vast herds of elephants that roamed the area. Soon after they settled there, the valley become known as Franschhoek (French Corner).

The area is known for its vineyards, wineries and fine cuisine.

Last updated: June 15, 2004.