Sophistication tends to adopt a neutral palate. Creams, whites and a whole library of beige have become synonymous with luxury. Some would criticise the trend as dull. It takes confidence to buck the norm and quirkiness to believe that elegance can coexist with the more exuberant colours of the spectrum. Le Quartier Français has just the right mix of metal and idiosyncrasy to pull the combination off. The boutique hotel relies on popular muted tones and then surprises by throwing pink cushions around teak loungers – shrugging its shoulders in nonchalance as it paints a bathroom wall a I-dare-you-not-to-notice-me yellow.
Our videographers were recently lucky enough to saunter around the property, taking in the sights, smells and, yes, they were even lucky enough to taste some of the delicacies offered by the Tasting Room: Le Quartier Français’s principal restaurant.
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Perhaps the root of this confidence resides in the awards that Le Quartier Français continues to rake in. Or maybe it’s the other way around: the confidence was of the estate’s own making and the recognition followed. Either way, Le Quartier Français has been rewarded for its efforts… The property bears the honour of wearing the Relais & Chateaux label which recognises hotels offering a holistic experience, concentrating on a high level of hospitality and fine dining. This association alone is enough to sharpen any establishment’s self-assurance but Le Quartier Français has other accolades to be proud of… The Tasting Room claims a spot on San Pellegrino’s World’s Best Restaurants and earns a position on the Elite Travelers 100 Restaurants in 2014 list.
Franschhoek – the home of Le Quartier Français – exudes a French elegance in its quaint streets. It would be tempting for any restaurant to emulate this European influence but the Tasting Room resists the urge, choosing to showcase South African ingredients and cuisine. As Executive Chef Margot Janse puts it, the Tasting Room completes “the experience of travelling in Southern Africa and South Africa with an experience of food.”
If you’re a wine enthusiast, enjoy the sun and picturesque settings appeal to you, then the Cape Winelands is a destination made for you. Make the most of the country by combining your wine tasting with a truly South African adventure: a safari in the Kruger National Park.
Stop imagining and start planning by contacting one of our travel planners.