OVERVIEW:
We think La Petite Ferme presents a very attractive option for anyone searching for accommodation in the Winelands. As its name suggests, it is a boutique-style property, and as such offering exceptional attention to detail.
ACCESS & LOCATION:
This area of the Winelands is usually accessed via road transfer from Cape Town, a distance of approximately 43 kilometres. La Petite Ferme has a lovely location amidst the rolling vineyards, surrounded by trees and with mountain views.
ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT LA PETITE FERME:
Communal facilities are housed in an elegant two-storey structure, featuring a wide veranda at the front. The interiors include the restaurant and adjoining bar, both with rustic furniture on floors of square stone tiles. Le Petite Ferme prides itself on providing a culinary experience like no other. Chefs Neethling du Toit and Tanya Rousseau like to fuse international flavours and methods using local ingredients, and all dishes are complemented with the farm’s own selection of wines. There is a tasting room here too. The restaurant flows out onto the veranda, which in turn has steps leading down to the well-kept gardens. These have a few benches, where you can sit with a glass of wine in hand and admire the gorgeous scenery.
Guest accommodation at La Petite Ferme consists of nine suites, four lodges, and two cottages. Four of the suites are found within the farm’s Manor House, a pleasant dwelling with views of Merlot vineyards. Of these suites, one is standard, two are superior, and one is deluxe. All are well appointed, with comfy beds, lounge areas, and en-suite facilities typically comprising flush toilet, twin washbasins, and shower or bath or both. One of the superior suites is named the Bridal Suite, and it benefits from a private veranda and a particularly spacious bedroom. The Manor House suites share a swimming pool. Just a 5-minute stroll from Manor House, there are the remaining five suites, situated in the gardens and overlooking Sauvignon Blanc vineyards. Each has access to a plunge pool, and the interiors are furnished in a lovely French country style. These suites are separated by low walls and trees, for plenty of privacy. Amenities include air conditioning, a cosy fireplace, a television and DVD player, and a mini-bar. Also on site, a slightly longer walk from the communal building and Manor House, there are four lakeside lodges, our top pick for families. These are comfortable rather than luxurious, capable of sleeping up to four persons each. Finally, La Petite Ferme’s two cottages are near the restaurant and in the midst of vineyards. Pear Tree Cottage accommodates two guests, whereas Maison Cottage has two double bedrooms and one twin bedroom. Both cottages feature a fully equipped kitchen, a wooden fireplace, and a private plunge pool.
ACTIVITIES AT LA PETITE FERME:
La Petite Ferme is perfectly positioned for guests to explore Franschhoek, with a lot of major attractions only a short drive from the hotel. Activities on the farm are centred on wine, as one might expect.
- You could start with a tour of the vineyards and cellar, which concludes with a tasting session.
- Similar pastimes are available at other estates in the region – for example, nearby Haute Cabrière also offers tastings and tours.
- A chocolate-tasting experience may be enjoyed at Huguenot Fine Chocolates, although the amount of chocolate provided is quite small.
- If you like to hike, you could consider a guided walk along the mountain slopes surrounding La Petite Ferme and beyond – biking is possible too, as is paragliding.
- Of course Franschhoek town is well worth a visit for many reasons – restaurants, art galleries, markets, monuments, and museums. Various guided tours are available in and around the town, to familiarise you with the area’s rich heritage.
- Further sports are played in Franschhoek, such as bowling on the green and tennis at the local club.
- Keen golfers can travel to Boschenmeer or Pearl Valley, near Paarl, for a few rounds in scenic settings.
- With archaeological sites, a classic car museum, and even a glass-blowing studio also within driving distance of La Petite Ferme, there really is something for everyone to enjoy in this fascinating region.