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The off-beat Swartland region, only an hour’s drive from Cape Town, has over the past decade or so, found itself very much on the map thanks to a predominantly motley crew of young-gun winemakers who have settled in the region. They are producing extraordinary craft wines that can now be found from L.A to Tokyo.

The hamlet of Riebeek Kasteel in the Riebeek Valley is the go-to place when heading west and has become home to many lauded writers and artists. It’s here that Villa Franchi, named after the creative owners’ Italian heritage is situated.  Perfectly placed just off the village square this home is within easy walking distance to art galleries, restaurants and coffee shops (of which, in the owner’s opinion the best, ‘Beans About Coffee’, is practically on your doorstep!).

A Cape vernacular home with an easy country living ambience, Villa Franchi offers spacious, barefoot, luxury living. This funky, comfy, colourful and richly textured hideaway centres around a Mediterranean style courtyard with sparkling pool and a shaded patio… designed to encourage long, lazy days of lovely languishing!  Denim and linen draped couches, screed floors and a well armoured kitchen of the best appliances make for easy holidays.  For those that want to embrace their inner master chef, there’s a bountiful kitchen garden bursting with sun ripened aubergines, tomatoes and herbs.

Look past the pool to the grassland veld beyond and you’ll be delighted to find a herd of Springbok grazing nearby.  Set within easy distance to all that the Riebeek Valley offers, Villa Franchi makes for an idyllic country stay.

What we love!

What you need to know…

• Although there’s a fabulous Farmer’s shop nearby, best to do the bulk of your grocery shopping before you arrive
• The pool is raised and has no net – so would need to keep a close eye on any little people
• This is the owner’s primary home, available over the festive season and beautifully organised and equipped.
• One of the bedrooms is an annexe with separate entrance and plenty of space for a cot.
• This is the binneland… summers here are hot!