Hotels in Franschhoek

Franschhoek's property boards have prices quoted in rands, euros, and dollars -- proof of its popularity with visitors from all over the world who fall in love with the valley and want to own a piece of it. This tribe -- commonly known as Swallows -- spend the summers in Franschhoek and then head back to Europe during the miserable cold and sodden rain of winter. They've pumped serious capital into the valley, and as a result, there has been a mushrooming in accommodations options. But frankly, you'd be hard pressed to beat the following recommendations. Were it not for the mammoth price, these full reviews might include the gorgeously decorated La Residence, sumptuous summer residence of the owner of Domaine des Anges, a vineyard on the outskirts of Franschhoek village. Its 11 suites are by far the best dressed in the valley, and it's utterly exclusive -- set on a 12-hectare (30-acre) working farm -- so it's well worth considering if money's no object (tel. 021/876-4100; www.laresidence.co.za; doubles from R8,200). Also take a gander at The Owner's Cottage, at Grande Provence, which Harper's Bazaar recently named among its 10 Most Fabulous Villas in the World. Lodged in a sumptuously decorated Cape Dutch manor, you'll have every luxury you can imagine, as well as the run of one of Franschhoek's most exquisite wine estates. It's rented on an exclusive basis, with a maximum of five couples allowed to share; rates start at R12,000 for one room, or R14,000 for two. Check it out at www.grandeprovence.co.za.