When it comes to leisurely exploration of the Franschhoek Valley, the Franschhoek Wine Tram offers an unparalleled experience. A casual but captivating adventure, this hop-on-hop-off tour invites you to discover the valley’s wine estates at your own pace.
Also read: A week of art, food and wine awaits at Franschhoek Creates 2023
You can choose between five tram lines, each leading you to a curated selection of Franschhoek’s renowned wineries.
The day is yours to shape, choosing how long to linger at each stop (within the line’s schedule) and deciding where to indulge in fine dining or a refreshing drink. You can even opt for various activities to elevate your journey.
The start of your wine tram adventure depends on the line you pick, starting either at the Franschhoek Terminal or the Groot Drakenstein Terminal. You can enjoy a comforting coffee and a beignet before your departure.
Here is a map of the tram lines:
These are the stop points for each line:
- Blue Line: La Bri, Holden Manz, Mont Rochelle, Atlas Swift, Klein Goederust, Rickety Bridge, Grande Provence, and Franschhoek Cellar.
- Navy Line: Plaisir, Vrede en Lust, Boschendal, Solms Delta, Allée Bleue, Camberley, Bartinney, Le Pommier, and Zorgvliet.
- Orange Line: Boschendal, Solms Delta, Plaisir, Noble Hill, Babylonstoren, Baccō, Anura, and Vrede en Lust.
- Pink Line: Rickety Bridge, Grande Provence, Franschhoek Cellar, Eikehof, Leopard’s Leap, Dieu Donnê, Chamonix, and Pigcasso.
- Red Line: Rickety Bridge, Grande Provence, Franschhoek Cellar, Maison, Lynx, Paserene, Haute Cabriêre, and Le Lude.
Departures span from 8:45 am to 1 pm, with tickets available for both adults and children (and little ones under the age of three ride for free). As an added bonus, each journey includes an enlightening narration of the history of Franschhoek and the art of winemaking in the valley.
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Planning your adventure:
If you are driving to Franschhoek, park at the Franschhoek Terminal, located on the corner of Main Road and Cabriere Street. Alternatively, you can make use of the parking at the Groot Drakenstein Terminal if you plan to travel on the Navy and Orange lines.
Tickets must be collected at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the tour from the tickets office at the Franschhoek Terminal (tickets can also be collected at the Groot Drakenstein Terminal if you’re travelling on the Navy and Orange lines). This terminal is located on the corner of the R45 and R310 roads. Due to this, the departure time for the Navy and Orange routes is based on the shuttle service from the Franschhoek Terminal to Groot Drakenstein.
To ensure a seamless journey, it is advised that you familiarise yourself with the individual estates and their offerings before selecting your line. The timetable for your chosen line should serve as your itinerary, so you can effortlessly plan your day.
It’s essential to keep an eye on the maximum number of stops allowed for each departure time, as not all estates are conveniently situated next to the railway tracks. Some will require an open-sided bus ride to reach.
If you’re looking for a specific line and departure time, booking your tickets in advance is a wise choice. Online bookings can be made here. Additionally, consider the option of booking a transfer along with your tickets, complete with a private chauffeur for a worry-free return home after your indulgent tour.
If your journey includes the purchase of fine wines, consider acquiring the Franschhoek Wine Tram tote bag, crafted for a charitable cause. It also features a discount card for use at participating estates, adding a touch of practicality to your wine-sipping adventure.
For larger groups of more than 16 people, explore group booking options for a hassle-free experience. Before embarking on your adventure, fuel up with breakfast and stay hydrated throughout the day. A quick coffee and snack are at your disposal at the terminal pre-departure. Bear in mind that food and drinks are not permitted on the tram or tram bus.
Details:
- Cost: Adults R280 | Children aged 3 to 17: R90
- Wine tastings at each estate range between R50 and R260 per person
It is advised that dining reservations be made 24 hours in advance. Here is the restaurant contact list. Note that the costs mentioned above do not include the cost of the Wine and Cuisine Experience, which includes four food and wine pairings and a visit to three world-renowned Franschhoek Valley wine estates.
Cape {town} Etc discount: Embark on a round trip from Cape Town to the Winelands and back for R2 449 (valued at R3 500). Get it here.
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Picture: Franschhoek Wine Tram / Facebook
