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Accommodation, Cape Winelands

La Residence Franschhoek

Written by Cynthia Deneux

Ker & Downey Africa > Journal > Travel Diary: La Residence Franschhoek

General Manager of Ker & Downey® Africa France DMC division, Cynthia Deneux, was recently treated to a luxury stay at La Residence in Franschhoek in the beautiful Cape Winelands. Below, Cynthia shares some of her positive experiences and gives general feedback on her stay and the property as a whole.

We like to share this in-depth insider knowledge with you to assist you with deciding on the perfect choice of accommodation for an escape to the Winelands.

About La Residence

La Residence enjoys breath-taking views of the mountains and undulating countryside

La Residence is considered one of the most exquisite boutique hotels in Franschhoek, located just one hour drive away from the city of Cape Town. It is so lovely to sit back and take in the scenery of rolling hills and flourishing farmlands, while enjoying the Ker & Downey® Africa luxury transfer. 

 

The hotel sits on the outskirts of Franschhoek (a mere 3-minutes away) and it is nice not being located right in the center of the town, but still having it so easily accessible. La residence is located at the end of Elandskloof Private Road – just up the hill from Franschhoek. Upon entering the property, I was completely blown away by the picture perfect backdrop of vineyards, olive groves and mountains. A setting that is beyond comparison, while also being very private and intimate.

A peacock at La Residence Franschhoek.

The resident peacock at La Residence 
The resident peacock likes to make an appearance from time to time and fits right in with his large colorful iridescent tail feathers. 

I was presented with a bottle of MCC upon arrival which was enjoyed by the pool before appetizers on the outdoor patio. The resident peacock likes to make an appearance from time to time and fits right in with his large colorful iridescent tail feathers.

The Hotel

Relax around the large infinity pool with magnificent views of the valley

The interiors at La Residence are simply out of this world. Think high ceilings, magnificent artworks, oversized bouquets, giant chandeliers, marble floors, large sofas and Persian rugs. It is opulence and luxury at its finest!

During my stay, I enjoyed long walks around the manicured gardens and relaxing around the swimming pool overlooking the valley.

Cynthia Deneux at the pool at La Residence Franschhoek

Cynthia enjoying the daybed after a dip in the pool

During my stay, I enjoyed long walks around the manicured gardens and relaxing around the swimming pool overlooking the valley. I particularly enjoyed reading my book around the pool, curled up on a comfortable daybed, surrounded by the most incredible beauty.

Accommodation

All 11 opulent guest rooms are individually decorated and beautifully furnished. Room types consist of luxury suites, superior suites, 1 bedroom vineyard suite, 1 bedroom vineyard suite with a loft bedroom, 2 bedroom vineyard suite and a 3 bedroom vineyard suite.

Extraordinary artworks adorn almost every wall, and colorful, plush throw cushions add a sense of playful elegance. My room was enormous and my bathroom had an opulent chaise lounge. Although I didn’t need to make use of it, there are heated floors for the chilly winter months.

Luxurious bathroom at La Residence, Franschhoek

The luxurious Tibetan suite bathroom

Dining

Dining at La Residence is exceptional! The focus of the restaurant is on fine wine and delicious cuisine using fresh, local ingredients, many of which are grown on the estate. The extensive wine list showcased some of the finest wines in the country, and you can tell that a lot of effort has gone into making the overall dining experience an unforgettable one.

Fresh fruit and croissants for breakfast at La Residence Franschhoek

Fresh fruit and croissants at the lavish breakfast buffet
The lavish breakfast buffet was a particular highlight for me and is sure to satisfy anyone’s cravings with delicious baked goods, cereals, fruits, cheeses, meats and more.

La Residence is open to the public for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner subject to availability and by prior reservation only. The lavish breakfast buffet was a particular highlight for me and is sure to satisfy anyone’s cravings with delicious baked goods, cereals, fruits, cheeses, meats and more.

Facilities

Guests can indulge in a beauty or massage treatment at the La Residence Spa – I highly recommend pre-booking this. I also particularly loved the wine tasting, especially trying the local Cabernet Sauvignon which is made from the grapes grown on the farm. Long walks amongst the vineyards are a great way to spend the afternoon. You can also request a bicycle and take a pedal through the surrounding wine farms or the short distance into town. A complimentary transfer is also provided into town if you do not wish to cycle.

Long walks amongst the vineyards are a great way to spend the afternoon

General Feedback

La Residence is one of my favorite properties in the Cape Winelands. Staying overnight gives you time to explore the region and various activities. But this is definitely a 2 or more night destination so that you can enjoy a lazy day around the pool and a beauty treatment at the Spa. The property is extremely romantic, and would be a great option for couples. If you want to indulge in luxury and spoils and experience the best of the Cape Winelands, then this is the property for you.

Highlights: The sunset from the outdoor patio, the comfy daybed, the stellar service, and of course the delicious breakfast!

A huge thank you to La Residence for this incredible experience and in particular to Werner the GM of the property. Do yourself a favor and book a stay here, you will not be disappointed!

If you are interested in experiencing a luxurious stay at La Residence Franschhoek with Ker & Downey® Africa, get in touch with one of our LuxVenture® Designers today!

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