Driving through the beautifully landscaped gardens, the toughest decision is which one of the many options to experience first. Welcomed by the delicious aroma of freshly baked bread, the temptation is to walk straight into the Farm Shop, but it might be wiser first to acquaint yourself with the estate's top wines. The La Motte Tasting Centre was fully renovated last year. Seated around hand-made tasting tables, or on comfortable sofas, visitors have the opportunity to sample La Motte's award-winning wines presented by well-informed and very friendly wine ambassadors, surrounded by Pierneef art with classical music in the background and sweeping views of the working wine and maturation cellars. The classic range of La Motte wines, the Pierneef collection, which includes the organically grown Sauvignon Blanc, and the flagship Shiraz-based red wine, Hanneli R, are all available for purchase.
To understand La Motte's rich cultural history, the La Motte Museum should be your next stop. The largest room in the museum is dedicated to the life and art of Pierneef and includes a display from the family collection, previously owned by Pierneef's daughter, Marita. Jacob Hendrik Pierneef (1886-1957), a well-known South African artist, famous for his mastership in portraying the unadorned beauty of the South African landscape and its architecture.
The Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant promises diners a unique food experience. Delicious flavours are inspired by the traditional cooking of the Boland region and lovingly prepared by head chef du cuisine, Chris Erasmus.
The interior of the Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant is the result of painstaking planning, evident in the attention to detail. The style is Cape Dutch with a contemporary twist and the chandeliers that immediately grab the attention are inspired by crockery that dates back to the time of the Dutch East India Company. Once again, artist Jacob Hendrik Pierneef features in the décor.
The La Motte Hiking Trail offers a bird's-eye view of the surrounding area. Recently opened, the 2km route takes about two hours to walk and three hours when strolling. You need to be reasonably fit though, as the trail has a 1B rating and is sometimes quite steep. It is advisable to start early in the morning during the warm summer season and to bring the right gear, especially proper walking shoes. Being a conservation-conscious project, the trail offers nature lovers the opportunity to explore some of La Motte's greatest assets along the way - the abundant bird life, a protea garden, the wealth of indigenous flora and breathtaking views of the Franschhoek Valley.
The Farm Shop offers gifts and reminders of your visit, as well as an assortment of freshly baked breads. You can also purchase La Motte wines; there is a comprehensive range of red and white varietals and blends, as well as the limited release Mèthode Cap Classique (Brut).
La Motte is on the R45 just outside Franschhoek. For inquires and bookings, call +27 (0)21 876 8800 or go to www.la-motte.com.
