Boschendal, Wine estate and heritage site in Franschhoek Valley, South Africa

Boschendal is a roughly 2240-hectare estate with vineyards, orchards, gardens, and natural vegetation in the Franschhoek region. The property offers wine tastings at two locations, hiking trails, farm-to-table dining, and self-catering accommodations.

The estate was founded in the late 1600s by French Huguenot Jean le Long who settled in the region. The manor house was built in 1812 in traditional Cape Dutch style and remains standing today.

The estate operates a gallery showcasing South African artists with rotating exhibitions that reflect the region's creative traditions. Guests walking through these spaces see works that often connect to the agricultural and natural landscape around them.

The property is best explored with your own transport as activities are spread across the large site. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike, and allow plenty of time to experience the different areas.

The 1812 homestead was built by Paul de Villiers and his wife Anna Susanna Louw on the site of his father's house. In the later De Villiers years the British Governor at the Cape, Sir George Grey, stayed at Boschendal whenever he visited the region.