Le Quartier Français

The Abridged: Right on the main thoroughfare of Franschhoek's bustling high street, LQF (as the staff all call it) couldn’t be better positioned. Boasting the same level of service, with a slightly lower price tag than its big sister hotel, Leeu Estate. Home to La Petite Colombe, it boasts some fine dining too.

The Story

Yet another hotel owned by Indian healthcare mogul, Analjit Singh (but he prefers BAS) who has taken something of a shining to Franschooek and introduced some fabulous additions to this antiquated corner of the Western Cape. The feeling of a village within itself the Victorian-style townhouses surround a central outdoor pool. The grounds are peppered with bronze statues from local artisans, as well as a lifesize artwork in the entrance hall (we’ll leave you to discover it for yourself - it’s quite the conversation starter)!

The Beds

Each of Le Quartier Francais’ 22-rooms are styled in colourful yet calming colour palettes. Lime greens, azure blues, cerise pinks and soft greys brighten up a cream backdrop, whilst patterns and prints add some fun. Enormous colourful artworks by Gary Stephens add a sense of your locale. There’s an entire book on the Leeu Collection’s art collection, well worth a read for those interested in Franschhoek vibrant artistic scene. The best rooms would have to be Garden Suites which offer a bit more room, living areas, and enormous bathrooms. 

The Menu

A proper breakfast spread is laid out in The Conservatory, but make sure to book a table at La Petite Colombe, one of Cape Town's best restaurants. John Norris Rogers heads a young and enthusiastic team, serving six and twelve-course menus. Marigold restaurant, owned by BAS himself introduces some homespun Punjabi flavours to Cape Town's French Quarter.

 The perfect guest: Foodies. Boutique lovers.

Best time to visit: November to April, but we love Franschhoek all year round.

Spa: No, but their sister hotel Leeu Estate has an excellent one.           Gym: Yes.

Best Room: The Garden Suites

Wi-Fi: Yes.     Pet Friendly: Not         Room Service: Yes.

Rates: From £265 per room per night. Inc. Breakfast & Taxes.

For bookings click here.

Words and photography by Megan Lambert.