Franschhoek, where both La Motte and Leopard’s Leap Winesare situated, owes its existence to French immigrants would fled persecution after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes in France in 1685, when Protestantism was outlawed, and arrived in South Africa and settled in this beautiful valley. Translated, the name Franschhoek means French Corner.
We haven’t forgotten our French roots and every year Franschhoek celebrates Bastille Day. This is how it was described on the Franschhoek website:
“Franschhoek celebrates Bastille Day with reckless abandon. In fact, we like to commemorate our forefathers by celebrating for an entire weekend. Highlights of the Bastille Festival include a Food & Wine Marquee, a French Film Festival, the Chef’s & Waiters Race, Pêtanque, the Barrel Rolling competition and lots more!”
For more information on this year’s festival which runs 11 – 12 July, click here