Franschhoek, South Africa’s Gourmet Capital, is once again celebrating its French Huguenot heritage with a wonderful feast of food, wine and entertainment at its annual Bastille Festival on the weekend of 14 and 15 July in 2008.

With lots to see, do and enjoy for the whole family, make a memorable winelands weekend getaway of your visit and take advantage of the special Bastille packages offered by a plethora of the great and cosy hotels and guest houses in Franschhoek, 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 Bastille Festival, and 2008 will not be different. Enjoy this gastronomic affair in style, as chefs and winemakers showcase Franschhoek’s crème de la crème.

Award-winning restaurants in Franschhoek, such as Ruebens, La Petite Ferme and Moreson Bread and Wine are compiling special menus exclusive to Bastille.

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.

The Bastille Food and Wine Marquee in the centre of Franschhoek’s main road 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.

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. Du Vin, du pain; C’est la vie!

Franschhoek Bastille Festival

Dates: 14 – 15 July 2008 (dates to be confirmed)
Location: Franschhoek

For more information on the Franschhoek Bastille Festival, subscribe to our Editor’s Picks Newsletter, including confirmed dates of the festival.

Read our directions overview article for directions from Cape Town to Franschhoek.