BEST 10 ACTIVITIES FOR TODDLERS IN FRANSCHHOEK
FAMILY WEEKEND SIGHTSEEING ATTRACTIONS ITINERARY
Franschhoek is a picturesque town located only an hour’s drive from Cape Town central. This tour itinerary includes the best spots for families looking for things to do in the holidays and weekends. Parents of toddlers feel most relaxed when there is play within view of their table, so they can enjoy their lunch while kids get their energy out. There are some of the most children friendly environments in the town itself at the Franschhoek Cellar, Pub Station and Grill, and Country Kitchen.Tokara, Franschhoek Cellar, Alee Bleue, and Leopard's Leap are more noteworthy sites. Historic farms like Boschendal, La Motte, and Plaisir provide a plethora of activities for the whole family.
Click here for CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR for another page with other activities.
Tokara Winery near Franschhoek
NO 1. FRANSCHHOEK CELLAR
PLAYPARK AND ASTRO TURF
The restaurant has a great ambience, with many of umbrellas shading a large playground and a fountain. There is much on the menu to satisfy any palate. The banquet space located behind the kitchen is the perfect size for a conference, wedding, or other special event. Sleep in or take a break at your vacation rental before heading out for breakfast, as the kitchen opens at 11 a.m.
See the website CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR for top activities for families in Cape Town.
Franschhoek Cellar Kids Play Area
Franschhoek Cellar
NO 2. LEOPARDS LEAP WINE FARM ACTIVITIES
STUNNING ARCHITECTURE & EATERY
This must-see tourist destination features a sizable, contemporary barn with plenty of space for a restaurant staffed by skilled cooks. The enormous bar area is surrounded by a number of meeting rooms, libraries, gift shops, and other attractions. Outside there is a shady space with blooming trees and plenty of playing equipment. With tables and chairs arranged thoughtfully, adults can eat lunch and keep an eye on the children. Be alert for the sculpture of a leopard that is hidden high up but still visible! You might also like CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR for more on what to do on Sundays in Cape Town and the Winelands.With views of the farm and the Cape winelands in the background, this massive restaurant has lots of seating. Seek out the sculpture depicting a coiled leopard perched atop a tall viewpoint. There's a large covered verandah with outdoor seating under trees that provide shade next to a kids' play area. In addition to meeting rooms and a gift shop, the superb bar provides a comprehensive area fit for a range of events. The interior design exudes warmth and inviting African Chic style, and it is beautifully implemented.
Leopard's Leap Play Area
Leopard's Leap Restaurant & Wine Tasting Centre
NO 3. EXOTIC PLANT COMPANY
PRETTY FLOWERS
For something completely different, stop at exotic nursery that contains large amounts of colourful orchids and other fascinating exotic plants that children will love to see. There is a bubbling brook running through the estate, where children can casually take off their shoes and get into contact with real nature. Enjoy a meal at the bistro, and be sure to purchase one of these thriving plants to brighten up your home, and help you remember the special time you had with your family at this exciting nursery.You might also like CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR for more on self-guided sightseeing tours of Cape Town and the Winelands.
Exotic Plant Company
CLOSER TO CAPE TOWN - PLAYALOT
PARTY INDOOR PLAYPARK
This marvellous arena has won awards for the vast variety of exercise based activities that it provides young developing children. Kids have a vast area of climbing equipment, trampolines and supervised climbing walls to choose from. Entertainment areas and party booths surround the main floor. Pay per hour and enjoy. Special prices at off-peak times.Go to CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR to find out more about tour historical tour itineraries in Franschhoek.
Playalot in Hazendal Mall
NO 4. ALEE BLEUE WINE FARM
PICNIC & JUNGLE GYMS AMID HISTORY
The estate's moniker, "Blue Alley," originates from the wide avenue of gum trees that welcomes guests. As you go inside, you'll be shocked by how much is there: a sizable dining room and tasting area with views of a lush grass and surrounding blooming trees. There is a play area set aside for kids with different wooden jungle gyms. Grab a prepackaged lunch from the restaurant and take pleasure in a shaded getaway from the city.Allee Bleue is proud of the variety and caliber of its wine choices in addition to providing cheese tastes of the same caliber. Committed to protecting the breathtaking valley that feeds it, the farm actively supports social responsibility programs and, when possible, farms using organic and environmentally friendly practices.
Find great photos at CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR of more parks and gardens in Cape Town, Somerset West, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and the rest of the Winelands.
Allee Bleue
RAINBOW LEARNER EARLY LEARNING
Rainbow Learner provides quality first readers that will have children reading on their own in no time. Maths worksheets grow childrens understanding of mathemtics in an activity book type environment.
Click here for GLITZYMAGAZINE another page with other activities.
Rainbow Learner Educational Readers and Actitivity Books
NO 5. WEEKENDS AT BOSCHENDAL
CULTURAL WINE FARM
With a tour of the vegetable gardens and a wonderful atmosphere created by giant, lovable chickens running amongst the tables, this is a perfect family venue where kids can learn about farming in the middle of one of South Africa's most valuable historical treasures.
Encircled by a centuries-old oak woodland is the majestic H-shaped home.
The "Werf restaurant" and the "Deli restaurant," in addition to a shop and butchery, are currently housed in the barns.
See the page ABOUT THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS in Cape Town during the
holidays and weekends.
THE DELI RESTAURANT
The bistro-style breakfast and lunch are served at the Deli restaurant, which is open for dinner from Saturday through Tuesday. It's pizza night on Sunday.
THE WERF RESTAURANT
The Werf restaurant is located in the restored heritage building in the cellar, directly opposite from the manor house. Enjoy looking at this exceptional example of a genuine Cape Dutch interior, which is difficult to find these days.
Eating here supports the community because locally grown produce and commodities sourced ethically are promoted. Many of the ingredients come from the expansive Werf Food Garden, which you can see from your table. Two of the restaurant's specialties are Forest Reared Duroc Pork and Black Angus Beef.
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GLITZYMAGAZINE which focuses more on weekend activities for
the grown-ups like wine-tasting and photographing landmarks.
ACTIVITIES ON THE FARM
With a guide, explore the expansive orchards and herb gardens.
Not only is this a perennially popular venue for weddings, but the werf is also available for picnics. The farm has bicycles that you can borrow from the trail center to ride its trails.
See CAPE NATURAL ATTRACTIONS ITINERARY for
for more sightseeing landmarks in Franschhoek and the rest of the Cape Winelands.
MANOR HOME AT BOSCHENDAL
The manor home has round-topped windows with green paint on them. Every window on the lower level has a working shutter. Now serving as the center of all agricultural activities, the mansion periodically opens its doors to the public for visits during art shows and other occasions, when its lavish interior and timbered ceilings are on display.
The gable is dated 1810, fifteen years younger than its neighbor at Rhone. Finding the foundations of an earlier T-shaped building during a restoration job in the 1970s was a notable discovery.
The buildings are now open to both in-person and out-of-town visitors thanks to the meticulous restoration work done by the farm's owners and caretakers over the years.
Reinvesting in the environment and neighborhood is a fundamental component of the wine farm's philosophy.
Visit this page on the website on the highlighted link
GLITZYMAGAZINE for more great itineraries and day trips.
The historical buildings are in the Cape Dutch Stykle.
The organic garden tour takes you through this countryside.
NO 6. TOKARA FOR KIDS
DESIGNER PLAYPARK
Travel the picturesque Banghoek Pass until you arrive to Tokara, one of the most breathtaking and kid-friendly wine vineyards in the Cape. The playground, which offers kids a full ergonomic workout in a creative tree house-style hideout, was created based on research conducted worldwide. From there, parents may have wine and watch the breathtaking sunsets that illuminate Simonsberg Mountain while their children take in the breathtaking vistas towards Stellenbosch. The eatery, which goes by the name "Delicatessen," serves a delectable assortment of dishes made by a skilled chef. Situated about 20 minutes away by car from Franschhoek's center, this place is a must-see on your itinerary. See THIS LINK TO BUILT ATTRACTIONS for a list of the top man-made sightseeing attractions to visit.DELICATTESSEN AT TOKARA WINERY
This beautiful site provides excellent exposure because it's right in front of drivers as they approach the T-Junction where it joins the main R45 highway from Stellenbosch. The focal point of the design is an h-shaped, historically significant farmhouse from the 1920s that is furnished in the authentic Cape Dutch Renaissance style. View the site GLITZYMAGAZINE for beautiful pictures of Cape Dutch gardens.The farm's ancient structures and traditions are a sharp contrast to the cutting-edge cellar machinery that assisted in the production of the estate's award-winning wines. Pinotage is a highly sought-after export from the winelands, having achieved international renown. The restaurant boasts breathtaking views of the Drakenstein Mountains in the distance, a large expanse of vegetation, and the neighboring river. The immaculate picnic area with a kids' jungle structure and space for a family get-together is one of the estate's unique characteristics. Click on FRANSCHHOEK HISTORICAL BUILDING ITINERARY for a great list of historical attractions in Franschhoek and the Winelands.
Tokara playpark.
The Deicattessen Restaurant.
NO 7. THE MOTOR MUSEUM
HISTORY KIDS WILL LOVE
This substantial collection of privately held classic cars is well-known throughout the world for its exceptional caliber. Both adults and children will find this to be an enlightening look into the past. Situated amidst lush indigenous fynbos, the Drakensberg Mountains provide a truly energizing experience for visitors. The collection was founded in Johannesburg and is owned by Johann Rupert. Please schedule an appointment before visiting this location in order to enhance security and, ultimately, the visitor experience. Don't miss this unique attraction; a little extra planning will undoubtedly pay off. Go to GLITZYMAGAZINE for more gardens and parks in Cape Town.Contact 021 874 9002 2023 Ticket Price: R80 p/p
Inside the Franschhoek Motor Museum.
The outside of the Museum.
NO 8. BABYLONSTOREN
THE AMAZING GARDEN
Babylontoren is a historic wine farm, with heritage buildings in the Cape Dutch style. The excellent management of this national treasure has lead to the deveopment of a vast organic garden surrrouding the historic buildings. Built on sustainable practices, two restaurants and a bakery thrive within the complex. The farm is a wonderful natural environment for children to experience and several farm animals roam the paddocks and may be fed healthy snacks!
Simonsbergh in the Background.
The Animals of Babylonstoren.
The Thriving Organic Gardens.
NO 9. LA RHONE
THE SECRET ROSE GARDEN
Situated on the R310, this old farmhouse is easily overlooked by visitors heading to the more well-known Boschendal Manor from Stellenbosch. Nonetheless, it is undoubtedly the more picturesque of the two identical structures, constructed in close proximity to one another and reachable by the same door. Simply make a right turn at the Boschendal Estate's main entrance. Click on the link SOUTH AFRICAN ARCHITECTURE STYLES for for a comprehensive list of things to do for the whole family especially on public holidays and weekends.Both buildings are owned by Anglo American Farms, and Rhone is occupied by Rhodes fruit farms. Architect Gabriel Fagan oversaw the tasteful renovations, which are currently home to the company's PR department but are off-limits to the public.
A level grass is enclosed by a big circular driveway bordered with roses. This is the pinnacle of Cape Dutch architecture and gardening, preserved and magnificent. Dating back to 1795, the gable is a stunning illustration of early neoclassical architecture. It features two half windows and four full windows that are mirrored around the fanlight-equipped central entrance door.
Kids will learn so much about our heritage, in a safe and tranquil environment surrounded by mountains.
THE RESTAURANT AT RHONE
This old structure, which is near to Boschendal, has a gable that dates back to 1795 and is a stunning illustration of early neoclassical architecture. The gorgeous building is fronted by a lovely rose garden. You should bring your family to this undiscovered gem. The Rhone Restaurant offers a classic Cape cuisine buffet meal on Sundays. On other days, bookings can be made by calling in advance; groups bigger than 20 can be accommodated. This is a peacefully beautiful place to enjoy the amazing view, located in the Banghoek valley at the base of the Groot Drakenstein mountain. The buildings are now open to both in-person and out-of-town visitors thanks to the meticulous restoration work done by the farm's owners and caretakers over the years. Try click on GLITZYMAGAZINE for more photos of iconic landmarks in the Mother City.Its partners are all deeply committed to giving back to the environment and the local community. They collaborate with other like-minded farms in the area to preserve the area's natural beauty.
Tel: 021 870 4274 Sundays: 12p.m. to 2:30p.m. Arrive by 1:30p.m.
The secret Rose Garden.
The Manor House at Rhone.
NO 10. STATION PUB AND GRILL
Try the biltong platter for a distinctive and genuine South African meal. Enjoy great South African hospitality in a historic previous train station. Jungle gym swings and slides in view of the tables.
Inside the Station Pub and Grill
The jungle gym is located near the tables.
Interested in early-learning? Visit RAINBOWLEARNER for a vibrant new range of early readers and educational workbooks.
IN CAPE TOWN - TOTAL NINJA
The main attraction is the huge inflatable jumping area. There are coaches here, utilizing props to teach the kids the fundamentals of defense. With a variety of obstacle courses, kids can have a great time while improving their balance and coordination! This is a must-have for every celebration, and if you're lucky, you might even be able to get pre-made cakes and party booth decorations. There are many kid-friendly cuisine options, including burgers, pizza, and burritos. There's a first aid facility for emergencies. Visit GLITZYMAGAZINE for more things to do in Franschhoek and the greater Winelands.
Total Ninja.
IN SOMERSET WEST - VERGELEGEN
The wine estate Vergelegen in Somerset West is one of the best places to take kids because it has a vast strolling space where you may study different plant climatic zones. Well-maintained gardens encircle a number of historic Cape Dutch-style buildings. Restaurant Stables serves pizza, salads, steaks, and other classics from South Africa. Open to restaurant patrons is the thoughtfully planned playground. For the small price of an admission ticket and the cost of dining out, take in this wonderful location. Go to GLITZYMAGAZINE to view photos on Cape Town Architecture built landmarks.
Vergelegen Wine Farm
RAINBOW LEARNER
EARLY LEARNING
EARLY LEARNING
LAUNCHING SOON
The Rainbow learner series is based on exposing children to literacy as early as possible through the use of large print and captivating pictures. Fun stories, like “Pup had a Bib” and “Pig had Fun,” will move your child from alphabet knowledge to three letter words during heartwarming bed time stories that parents and kids will remember forever.
Rainbow Learner Maths Workbooks have been designed in such a way that the exercises build on each other step by step, and guide kids in creating useful mental pictures. This novel approach enables children to learn sophisticated concepts younger than expected!
“Rainbow Learner - Teaching Children to Draw,” is a book soon to be launched on Amazon.com, that breaks up realistic drawing into 4 key concepts. This enables children to draw realistically from a young age, based on a systematic approach that will give them a great foundation in art. Expressive works are encouraged and follow on naturally from this basis.
The Rainbow Learner Series of educational books and workbooks is under development, and is planned to be launched on the Amazon.com platform early in 2025.
Keep a lookout for the latest developments on the official RAINBOWLEARNER website, at the highlighted link.
