Le Quartier Francais

Franschhoek, meaning “French corner,” is an oddity in Dutch-settled South Africa — a village founded by Huguenots during the seventeenth century, and a place that retains its Provençal character to this day. The surrounding area is part of the South African wine country, and the nearby vineyards still bear French names, as well as a quaint array of antique shops and museums.

Here, just 45 minutes from Cape Town, is a strange blend of two hemispheres, the stunning landscapes of the Western Cape set against the distinctly Provençal facade. Bedrooms are spacious, even sprawling, dressed in rich colors and hand-painted fabrics, eschewing any African references in favor of an updated and simplified French auberge look. The courtyard pool is the centerpiece in the summer, and in winter, guests can be found tucked in around their wood-burning fireplaces.

It's no surprise that food and wine are the focus of Le Quartier Francais; La Petit Colombe, the restaurant, is sister to the celebrated La Colombe in the Constantia Valley wine region. The contrast of French auberge style with South Africa's towering granite peaks is a pleasant one — just don't be surprised if you can't remember which hemisphere you are in.

How to get there: Le Quartier Francais is approximately a 50 minute drive from Cape Town International Airport.