Meeting the recent trend for families and groups of friends travelling together, La Cle Des Montagnes, or simply La Cle, not only provides the key to the mountain but also to the entire village which is just a few minutes walk away. Set on a working vineyard, La Cle at 13 Daniel Hugo Street, Franschhoek is a series of four villas, some historic and protected structures, all of which have been upgraded by decorator Sarah Ord who has produced deluxe interiors with her trademark bold colour combinations.
Keywords are elegance, privacy and comfort as the team of butlers and private chefs under the watchful eye of veteran hotelier Peggy Klement create sumptuous breakfasts and evening canapes in your villa’s kitchen.
Our stay in La Galerie couldn’t have been more lovely. So named for the special art collection (many by artist Bengt Lindström and local South African artist Peter van Straten) and wonderful art and interior design books available, this is the villa to book for you and another couple to enjoy. En suite accommodations are on either side of the “gallery” corridor with the shared sitting room, dining area and open-plan kitchen which leads out onto the covered deck and manicured gardens and pool beyond. The outside area is totally private and French doors lead from both bedrooms and bathrooms into a secluded garden lane.
Every comfort you can imagine is available but we especially liked the opportunity to prepare our own meals in the foodie-style kitchen from local produce purchased at the weekly farmer’s market and nearby supermarket - both within walking distance - not to mention proximity to some of the best wine cellars in the land.
La Grange accommodates six guests in its double volume living space, here the look is more rustic and textured with exposed original brick, yet no less luxurious. A private verandah, garden, and pool are also available for your exclusive use.
Le Manoir accommodating four guests is inspired by Franschhoek’s French heritage with red accents that highlight the French Corner of Franschhoek’s history. For eight guests select Le Colonial with its North African aesthetic and beautiful objects collected from the Colonies.
Whichever villa you select you will be impressed by their individual security, luxury, and pleasure of the friendly but quietly efficient team. And, if golf is your thing, there is no better resource than manager Peggy’s husband, Larry Gould who, literally, has written the book about the best golf courses available.
A stay at La Cle delivers all the benefits of being in a top Franschhoek hotel but the freedom and privacy of owning your own home. The very best of both worlds, really.
