Franschhoek, South Africa's Gourmet Capital, is once again celebrating its centuries-old French Huguenot heritage with a wonderful feast of food, wine and entertainment at its annual Bastille Festival on the weekend of July 14 and 15.

With lots to see, do and enjoy for the whole family, make a memorable weekend of your visit and take advantage of the special Bastille packages offered by a plethora of hotels and guest houses, many of which include a complimentary bottle of Franschhoek wine.

The theme of heavenly cuisine and fine wines is the order of the day and threaded throughout the Festival. Enjoy this gastronomic affair in style, as chefs and winemakers showcase Franschhoek's crème de la crème. Award-winning restaurants are composing special menus exclusive to Bastille. The Bastille Food and Wine Marquee is the focal point, drawing people to the hub of activity and fervour, as well-loved wineries and esteemed chefs parade their talents at colourful, vibrant stalls, offering delicious fare from: oysters, sushi, local and French cheeses to charcuterie, hand-made chocolates and salmon trout from the valley, complemented by Franschhoek's fine wines.

However, culinary indulgence is far from all this annual celebration has to offer. Frequent all the galleries, boutiques, crafts shops and food emporiums, dressed up to the nines and draped in French apparel. Amble along the charming aisles and weave in and out of the alcoves, delighting your senses...

Come along and paint the town red and blue, with entertainment ranging from a French Film Festival at Le Quartier's Screening Room, to boules, a chefs and waiters race, street soccer, a barrel-rolling contest and fly-fishing competitions. Guests can jive to the tunes of musicians while shopping up a storm at the market stalls and drinking in the wine, food and atmosphere. While a wide variety of children's activities promise to keep your little ones amused for hours.

So, with something for everyone, come celebrate this universal, colourful appreciation of French heritage, history and culture. C'est la vie!

Franschhoek Bastille Festival 2007
When: Saturday, 14 July to Sunday, 15 July 2007; 12pm-6pm
Where: Franschhoek
More Info: Franschhoek Wine Valley and Tourist Association +27(0) 21 876 3603


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