LA RESIDENCE
A WINE ROMANCE
Located in the beautiful Franschhoek valley at the heart of a private 30-acre estate, this hotel is an unforgettable hotel destination that exudes the glamour of a chateau. Surrounded by vineyards and plum orchards, with a stunning mountain backdrop, La Residence enjoys breathtaking views of the unspoilt rural surrounds and an atmosphere of complete tranquility. The first impression entering the airy reception area is of scale and space. Designed as a lofty barn, with massive chandeliers it exudes the aura of a palace. Designed with passion by owner Liz Biden. Original artwork and huge mirrors grace the walls; furnishings are plush, colorful and stylish. Elegant antiques and exquisite flowers create a feeling of refinement and sophistication. La Residence is a stellar addition to the Royal Portfolio owned and run by the Bidens family.
ACCOMMODATIONS
La Residence’s eleven spacious suites and five two-bedroom villas all have distinctive character and color scheme with art and antique furniture to match. The ample proportions set off the pieces that are a happy marriage of east and west, old and new. All suites have sunny balconies and breathtaking mountain views.
Dining
La Residence also enjoys a reputation for its superb cuisine, meals are served beneath glittering chandeliers in the baronial dining room or in the airy and scenic Persian Alley. With personalized service of the highest order, this is a Franschhoek accommodation of unparalleled luxury. Olive oil is made from the olive crop from the gardens that also produces fruit, vegetables and flowers. 2010 saw the maiden vintage of grapes from the 20 acre farm. Executive chef, Lennard Marais shapes menus around the home produce, always insisting on the finest ingredients – lamb from the Karoo, fish from Gordon’s Bay, Franschhoek valley cheese. Dinner can be enjoyed at his Chef’s Table, in the beautiful reception area or out door at the Persian Alley along a palm-fringed lawn to an infinity pool.
ACTIVITIES
Its striking scenery seduces all who visits, while lovers of superior food and fine wines are spoilt for choice in the “gourmet capital” of South Africa, with its plethora of wine estates, award winning restaurants and intimate bistros. Whether you are a connoisseur with your own cellar or an enthusiastic newcomer to the wonderful world of wine, Franschhoek wine tasting offers a unique experience for wine lovers. Explore boutique wineries or experience a private tasting with an expert, with or without food pairings. Wine tasting in Franschhoek means a huge variety of wine to be sampled and enjoyed. Winemaking has an illustrious 300-year old history in the Franschhoek Valley and the oldest family-owned wine farms are worth visiting for their quaint architecture and beautiful vineyards alone. Many wine estates are multi-faceted destinations offering museums, gardens, farm shops and restaurants as well as cellar tours and tastings. During a Franschhoek wine tasting experience, one will learn about the winemaking process and gain an understanding of what makes South African wine so special. Enjoy the charming village of Franschhoek, settled by the French Huguenots three centuries ago. And for the active there are World-class golf courses and numerous beautiful cycling, walking and hiking routes
PHOTOGRAPHY
A scenic paradise with superb year-round birding. The Cape Winelands are a beautiful part of the Cape Province, providing not only some of the best wines in the Country, but also breathtaking landscapes, vineyards and historical buildings. In autumn the vineyards explode into an array of different colors. Overcast days provide some of the best lighting to capture these vibrant colors, and reduce the shadows, in the vineyards. Don’t miss out on a scenic drive up Bain’s Kloof Pass.
