THE GARDEN HOUSE
Welcome to the Garden House, a charming heritage home in a quiet, elevated setting on the edge of Franschhoek’s Historic Area, with beautiful valley views, yet only a short walk from the shops, restaurants and cafes in the village.
THE COTTAGE AT THE GARDEN HOUSE
Your stay will be in The Cottage, separated from the main house by a peaceful shaded courtyard. It offers a spacious bedroom with a queen-size bed, air conditioning for both heating and cooling, a ceiling fan, fridge stocked with complimentary soft drinks, tea and coffee-making facilities (including Nespresso), hairdryer, safe, and TV with Netflix.
The large en-suite bathroom has underfloor heating, a heated towel rail, and dressing gowns for your comfort.
For groups of three or four, additional accommodation can be made available in season in the main house, which has an attractive double room with en-suite facilities.
MORE INFORMATION
Breakfast
From October to April guests can have the choice of :
- breakfast including muesli, yoghurt, seasonal fresh fruit, orange juice, Franschhoek smoked trout, local cheeses, and toast with lovely valley views from the the main house veranda;
- breakfast at one of the excellent cafés and restaurants in the village; or
-croissants and coffee at Motherdough or The Old Mill at La Cotte, both just a short walk away;
From mid-April to mid-October, guests may choose a light breakfast, left in The Cottage the night before, of muesli, yoghurt, fruit, and orange juice, or have breakfast at one of the cafés or restaurants in the village.
Garden
We’re not known as The Garden House for nothing but don’t expect the pristine perfection of Versailles or Kew Gardens! Ours is a delightful, rambling garden where you can really relax. Deadhead a few roses. It’s very therapeutic!
Pool
The pool is big enough to swim in, or just relax in the sun loungers!
Solar Energy
With our solar energy installation, you'll always have free WiFi, lighting, hot water and air-con.
Sundowners
Ours are legendary! Before going out for a wonderful dinner, join us (and anyone else who may drop in) for an aperitif! Whether you fancy a G&T (with delicious locally made fynbos gin) or a Jack Black Lager, a glass of chilled Chenin or full-bodied Shiraz from a nearby vineyard, or simply an ice-cold fruit juice, hopefully we’ll have something to whet your palette!
About Us
We are Annette and Barry. In October 2021 we moved from London to Franschhoek where we have lived happily ever since. We are both actively involved in the local community. Annette works in animal welfare, raising funds for the sterilisation of dogs and cats in the nearby township and helping to convert 200-litre drums into kennels. Barry is involved in community activities and teaches chess at the township primary school.
Our Pets
They are all "rescues" and an important part of our life. Lizzie is a very friendly little dog who is usually there to welcome you. Any, or all, of our cats, Bovver, Archie and Trouble may come to see how you're settling in.
GALLERY
THINGS TO DO
Wine Tasting
With around 30 vineyards in the Franschhoek Valley, you’re spoilt for choice. The very popular Wine Tram goes to many of them if you’d like the company of other bon viveurs (but you have to book); or you can just turn up at some vineyards or make an appointment at others for a personalised wine tasting.
Museums
A 15 minute walk away, the Huguenot Museum and Memorial tells the story of how 250 Huguenot refugees settled in the Cape in 1685.
South Africa’s first Perfume Museum is also nearby.
A 10 minute drive away, an incredible collection of over 80 classic cars is on display at the Motor Museum on the beautiful L’Ormarins Estate. You don’t have to be a petrol head to enjoy it with a little wine tasting afterwards.
Wining & Dining
With some of the finest world class restaurants in South Africa, Franschhoek is for foodies. Many cafes, pubs and restaurants are in walking distance of the Garden House, while others are just a short drive away. Take your pick from pizza to posh, from fish ‘n chips to the finest of fine dining.
Other Activities
Take a hike, ride a bike, run a trail, swim a lake, ride a horse, serve an ace, swing a club and then visit a spa - it's all here!
GUEST REVIEWS
OUR RATES
Until mid-October 2026
R2200 to include Cottage Breakfast
R1800 for Room Only
Mid October 2026 to mid-April 2027
R3200 to include Veranda Breakfast
R2700 for Room Only
Please note:
-
The rate is per night, inclusive of cold drinks, sundowners and bicycles.
-
The rates may vary during festivals and are subject to confirmation at the time of booking.
-
The rate for a combined booking of The Cottage and the Main House room is available upon request.
-
We don't normally take bookings for less than two nights.
-
If you cancel your reservation less than 30 days before your arrival date the full amount will be due if we can’t get another reservation for the same dates.
We look forward to welcoming you at
The Garden House!