Western Cape Article - South African Vacations

FRANSCHHOEKThe Franschhoek (“French corner”) valley was settled by French Huguenots in 1688 and, to alarge extent, has retained its French flavour. The town was originally known as Olifants Hoek(“Elephants Corner”) on account of the elephants who used the protected valley as a“maternity ward”. The town lies in the valley that is protected on three sides by soaringmountains. The beautifully restored manor houses lend grace to the fruit-laden orchards andspreading vineyards.180