IN PHOTOS: Western Cape town named amongst world’s greatest places

This is a massive, massive win for Franschhoek. After more than two-and-a-half years of COVID-induced panic, the tourist hot-spots of South Africa are looking to relaunch themselves in a world that is continuing on its long road back to normality.

Why has Franschhoek been named as one of the world’s greatest places?

Certainly, boosts don’t come much bigger than this. The iconic TIME Magazine has identified this Western Cape haven as one of ‘the world’s greatest places’ for 2022 – and Franschhoek is now looking to capitalise on its burgeoning international reputation.

On the list of 50 locations, Franschhoek can be seen rubbing shoulders with The Zambezi, Miami, Jamaica, The Galapagos, and Doha. It is truly an exclusive club, full of luxury destinations and quaint slices of paradise. But what makes SA’s sole representative stand out above the others?

• TIME praised the ‘lavish valley’ for it’s location. It’s buried in the Cape Winelands – but sits only an hour outside of the Mother City.
• The magazine officially labelled Franschhoek as a ‘wine lover’s dream’.
• Boutique wineries and idyllic restaurants bumped the town up the list.
• Everything from charcuterie boards, to fresh seafood and delicious pizzas ensure that all culinary tastes are met.
• Franschhoek’s breathtaking views and intimate lodges also ticked TIME’s boxes.

Western Cape now home to one of the world’s greatest places

If you’ve ever been to Franschhoek, you’ll know its place on this coveted countdown has been well-earned. Its status as a wine lover’s paradise has been carefully crafted over the past decade – but the town is also incredibly versatile, catering for more than just your average oenophile.

Beautiful architecture and stunning scenery go hand-in-hand. There’s not a bad view in Franschhoek. Sub-standard just isn’t a word that’s used in this part of the Western Cape. The people are friendly, the town is easy to navigate, and the booze just doesn’t stop flowing.

TIME Magazine give tourism boost to Franschhoek

This town is thriving, and civic pride in Franschhoek flows like a full-bodied red. Everyone who is part of ‘the valley of dreams’ knows that they are playing an important part in building an intoxicating community spirit – something the local municipality is very keen to highlight.

“With Franschhoek on the world map, this recent inclusion serves as a further reminder of the incredible diversity and quality on offer within the historic valley. We continue to strive for and celebrate the diversity of our unique village that attracts local AND international visitors.”

Franschhoek Municipality