Visiting Grande Provence: The Grande Dame of The Franschhoek Valley

Eco Africa Digital is welcomed to Grande Provence

Whether you are spending a day, a holiday, or just a stopover, a visit to Grande Provence is filled with charm and style. Similar to a chic grandmother who travels internationally, but finds her true north at home, Grande Provence is an experience to savour. Here you can follow the story of a proud heritage, underpinned by uncompromising quality and grandeur, just like a Grande Dame who is always ready to welcome guests with open arms and a warm embrace.

We spent the night at The Owner's Cottage at Grande Province where our day started with a delicious breakfast set up by the friendly and attentive Wellington, who is happy to bring you whatever your heart desires.

A stroll through the estate is the perfect after-breakfast activity, where you can meander through the vineyards and meet the resident ducks at the pond.

The Grande Provence "Art Route"

En-route you are likely to spot art pieces scattered across the estate. Some majestic, others subtly placed to blend in with the greenery, the art at Grand Provence is by far one of the biggest attractions.

The Gallery at Grande Provence is frequented by international and local visitors and is a proud showcase of established and emerging artists. The layout is conveniently designed so you can browse through the spacious gallery at your own pace and end up at The Shop, where you can purchase accessible artworks and artifacts.

The Restaurant at Grande Provence

The Restaurant is a fine dining option for discerning travellers keen to try out the fresh Heritage Menu, which changes often and as inspiration hits Head Chef, Marvin Robyn. We were lucky enough to experience the full menu: from starters, to mains, to dessert, paired with various Grande Provence wines and their delicious Brut Rose NV. 

We were charmed by the Ox tongue, sweet mustard, tagliatelle & pickled butternut (pictured here) presented on a beautiful burgundy red plate. For mains, we tried varying dishes. Some around the table preferred the Grilled peri-peri tuna, avocado puree & corn salsa, while others loved the Rib eye and Springbok rump options.

Either way, we couldn't be more delighted by Chef Marvin's creations. By the time dessert rolled around, we were already in taste paradise, but the sweet treats rounded it all off just perfectly. The Pineapple cake, coconut & lime sorbet, cinnamon, oats crumb (pictured here) was a flavourful burst of subtle sweetness. "What a taste explosion", as one of our team exclaimed throughout our unforgettable lunch.

Wine Tasting at The Bistro

The Bistro, the more informal eatery, is open daily and serves lighter fair for those passing by. Here you can enjoy wine tastings or one of the adventurous wine pairings, accompanied by a light meal. 

After purchasing your new favourite wine - or perhaps a bottle of our Grande Provence Olive Oil - you can enjoy the gardens around the estate and take in the moment a little longer.

Days or months later, when you open your bottle of wine from Grande Provence, you will remember the impression the Grande Dame of Grande Provence made on you, and start dreaming about your return.

Here's to your success, Grande Provence.