In the heart of Franschhoek, Le Quartier Français stands as a sanctuary of luxury, where every corner reveals an experience that resonates with the soul.
As our South African holiday was winding down, we decided to end it on a high note. That's how we landed at Le Quartier Français in Franschhoek. Aiming for a blend of luxury, culture, and the finest dining, we were all set for what promised to be an unforgettable finale to our journey. It felt like we were about to embrace the essence of what makes this part of the world uniquely captivating.
Fortuitously, we managed to check in earlier, which allowed us to start our luxurious retreat without delay. Walking into the Four Quarters Suite at Le Quartier Français felt like stepping into a dream I didn't want to wake up from. Imagine this: 110m² of pure, unadulterated luxury, wrapped around a private courtyard that seemed to whisper, "Welcome home." The suite was a feast for the senses, with every corner telling its own story of elegance and comfort.
The living area, with its plush sofas, felt like the perfect spot for a lazy afternoon read or a cozy evening with a glass of the local vineyard's finest—except, of course, I don't drink, so for me, it was more about sipping on a rich, aromatic coffee while soaking in the tranquility. The walk-in dressing room was a dream come true for someone who travels with half their wardrobe. It wasn't just about the space; it was about the feeling of luxury it exuded, making every outfit choice feel like a special occasion.
But let's talk about the heart of the suite—the super king-size bed. Falling into it after a day of exploring was like being hugged by a cloud. And for families, that double sofa bed for children means everyone gets a taste of luxury. The full en-suite bathroom, with its inviting bathtub, was the cherry on top, offering relaxation and rejuvenation after a day out in Franschhoek's enchanting surroundings.
The suite emerged as a sanctuary, promising rest, relaxation, and a hint of home, all within the embrace of luxury. It quickly became clear that this experience would set a new standard for what luxury accommodation should embody, marking the beginning of an unforgettable stay.
After settling into our suite, the next stop on our indulgence itinerary was the Leeu Spa by Healing Earth. The anticipation was palpable as we made our way to what promised to be a haven of relaxation. Upon arrival, we were greeted with the task of filling out a form detailing our preferences and no-gos for the massage. I must admit, I had a laundry list of comments, but to their credit, they customised the massage to the letter.
Alicia and Maggie, our massage therapists, were nothing short of magicians. They began with a foot massage, using eucalyptus and tree oils that immediately transported us to a state of bliss. The cooling and softening effect on our feet was just the prelude to the symphony of relaxation that followed. The full body massage that ensued was a masterclass in tension release; we emerged feeling like we were floating on air.
But the experience didn't end there. We descended to the lounge, where I indulged in tea infused with strawberry leaves and honey—a subtle yet exquisite blend that seemed to echo the tranquility of our surroundings. The next couple of hours were spent meandering between the steam rooms and the plunge pool, the latter offering a serene view of a tranquil lily pond that seemed to stretch into infinity.
Hunger eventually made its presence known, so we ordered some quick bites. My choice was the Leeu salad with grilled chicken, a dish that was as delightful to the palate as it was nourishing. My partner opted for a wrap with crispy chicken, which, judging by the speed at which it disappeared, was equally satisfying.
Our grand culinary adventure in Franschhoek reached its crescendo with an evening at Epice, a spot that's been on my radar thanks to the buzz from my foodie friends. Walking in at 7pm, the air was thick with anticipation—mine, to be exact, about diving into a menu crafted by the culinary wizards behind La Colombe.
The vibe at Epice was immediately inviting, setting the stage for what felt less like dinner and more like an epicurean odyssey. We opted for the full tasting menu, a decision driven by both hunger and a keen curiosity to experience the full spectrum of Chef Charné Mouton's spice-infused artistry.
Our journey kicked off with the Saldanha Bay Oyster, elegantly paired with Granny Smith and chili, a dish that was kindly customized for us. This was followed by the Grass-Fed Beef, its robust flavors lifted by Mango Atchar and Chipotle. The Passion Berry Pepper then swept in, a refreshing prelude to the deeper dive into spices that awaited.
The bread course was nothing short of a revelation. Imagine warm wagyu dripping mingled with a hawajih spice blend, creating a symphony of flavors that danced across a brass plate. This wasn't just bread; it was a culinary masterpiece in its own right.
Then came the 'Feeding With Passion' moment at the chef’s counter, where the magic happened right before our eyes—a performance that added a personal touch to our spice journey. The Cape Malay Namibian Crab and Tuna with Turmeric followed, with my dish thoughtfully adapted to a vegetarian option.
As we ventured further, the Phaal Curry Karoo Lamb Roti introduced a gentle heat, perfectly balanced by Coriander and Kashmiri spices. The Scallop with Pork, Cashew, and Fennel showcased an impressive culinary range, leading us to the whimsical sorbet trolley. Its playful bell signaled a parade of ices, each with its own delightful twist.
Our feast neared its end with the Springbok, Artichoke, Spinach Dahl, and Biryani, where my aversion to game meat was met with a sublime Wagyu beef substitution.
The grand finale, Summer Berries with Hibiscus, Pimento, and Kaju Katli, was a sweet echo of the evening's spice-laden voyage.
Dining at Epice was an immersive tale of flavors, masterfully woven by Chef Sampson and her team. As we lingered over the last bites, I couldn't help but feel a part of something truly special—a culinary narrative that spanned hours but would stay with me for much longer.
As I reluctantly bid adieu to Le Quartier Français, I couldn't shake the feeling of gratitude for the opulent experiences it bestowed upon me. From the haven of the Four Quarters Suite to the bespoke pampering at Leeu Spa and the culinary spectacle at Epice, each moment felt like a cherished memory in the making. Franschhoek is just a canvas where luxury, culture, and culinary artistry converge to paint a picture of indulgence and discovery—a place where every encounter leaves an imprint on the heart and soul.
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