The South African wine country and surrounding Cape winelands, situated in the range of mountain valleys to the east of Cape Town were settled by immigrants from European countries in the 1600's. Many of these early settlers were French Huguenots and their legacy can still be found in the names of the estates, La Motte, La Provence, Haute Provence and L'Ormarins are some of the better known producers of fine wines founded by those early pioneers.

The wine country is popular for day tours from Cape Town, most of the estates offer wine tasting and sales. Many of the wine estates include top quality restaurants, while others provide picnic baskets which can be enjoyed on the lawns under shady oaks.

The pocket sized town of Franschhoek boasts more than 20 restaurants at last count with a wide variety of choice, from gourmet breakfasts to top quality dinners including smoked trout from the clear and unpolluted local rivers and lakes.

Stellenbosch is the second oldest town in South Africa and the wine capital of the region, is very popular for its oak-lined streets, beautiful Cape-Dutch architecture and fine restaurants.

A worthwhile trip is a drive over Franschhoek Pass to the Elgin Valley, the foremost region in the country for the growing of apples. The pass follows the route originally taken by elephants on their travels, although it is now well maintained asphalt.