Living the Dream: My Unforgettable Pink Door Franschhoek Review
Picture this: Franschhoek, the undisputed gourmet capital of South Africa. And nestled in its heart, a place that is pure, unadulterated magic—Pink Door Franschhoek. A few friends and I embarked on an adventure here, eager to discover every corner of this gem from the Oyster Collection. And let me tell you, it was an absolute masterclass in how to experience the most exclusive, heartfelt luxury.
A Welcome That Makes You Feel Instantly at Home
The drive to Franschhoek is, in itself, a delight. As we left the vibrant energy of Cape Town behind, the mountains began to envelop us, finally closing in around the picturesque village. Here, the signs for sprawling wine estates give way to a charming parade of little shops. We turned onto Reservoir Road, and in less than a minute, there it was: Pink Door Franschhoek. We had barely parked the car when our hosts, Kim and Bernadine, appeared at the door, greeting us with smiles that immediately said, “you’re home.”
Our bags were whisked from the car to the house in a flash. Waiting for us in the kitchen was a welcome basket brimming with local delicacies and a chilled bottle of sparkling wine from L’Ormarins, a nearby estate. With a glass of bubbly in hand, we were given a brief tour to acquaint ourselves with what would be our sanctuary for the next few days. What a way to begin!
Bedrooms That Feel Like an Embrace
This house, which operates as a self-sufficient dream, has been equipped without sparing a single expense. Three luxurious bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom, unfold from the main foyer. The designers have exquisitely brought the outdoors in, from the jute floors and cane-woven walls to the oak and wicker wardrobes. Each of the three rooms was a world unto itself—warm, inviting, and full of character, with unique artwork and pillows so plush you just wanted to dive into them. Better yet, all three open onto a wraparound balcony through elegant French doors, creating the perfect spot for quiet reflection with a morning coffee or an evening glass of wine.
Bathrooms That Are Your Own Personal Spa
The en-suite bathrooms were simply marvelous, stocked with products from the local brand Africology—a true treat for the skin! But the crown jewel had to be the bathtub in the master suite: a king-sized Victoria and Albert freestanding tub! I swear, reclining there with bath salts and bubbles after a day of exploring felt like pure royalty. Even the thoughtful detail of the fluted marble in the guest bathroom surpassed all my expectations.
Spaces for Living and Dreaming
Once we’d unpacked, our attention turned to the heart of the home: the central living area. An open-plan kitchen, dining room, and lounge merge into one cohesive space designed for connection and enjoyment. The meticulous design continues here, from the warm wood tones and matte brass details on the chairs to the chiseled design of the table legs. It’s a seamless transition of natural materials that makes everything feel perfectly in harmony.
The first thing that grabs you in the kitchen is the classic Aga stove in a delightful dusty pink. The central island makes serving meals a breeze, with a coffee machine and two wine fridges conveniently at hand. And for those like me who sometimes need to send a quick email or take a work call, there’s a beautifully enclosed study that makes even work feel like a special occasion.
Outside, a grand veranda with neoclassical pillars lends a majestic air to the property before stepping down to the ten-meter heated pool. One end of the rounded rectangular pool features a built-in seating ledge with invigorating jets that activate at the touch of a button—a clever design that combines a pool and a jacuzzi! A hot shower right next to it completes the open-air hydrotherapy experience.
Surrounding the house, a garden designed by Francesca Watson is a feast for the senses, with various nooks for connecting with nature. The lush vegetable and fruit patches are not only beautiful but are also a source of fresh produce that guests are encouraged to pick and enjoy. The garden’s botanicals were a splendid addition to our nightly G&Ts, savored under the shade of large olive trees! There’s even a serene courtyard with a koi pond just off the lounge, perfect for lazy summer mornings or soaking up the winter sun.
Franschhoek at Your Fingertips
And the location? What can I say? Franschhoek is South Africa’s quintessential wine village. It’s an easy 45-minute drive from Cape Town and the airport. Along the way, there are countless world-class wine estates to explore, as well as some of the country’s finest dining experiences. We were just a one-minute walk from Franschhoek’s main street, which meant that strolls ending in a wine tasting or a sweet treat became a daily ritual! For a scenic hike, the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve is just a 15-minute drive away, offering trails for all fitness levels with breathtaking views.
The Little Details That Change Everything
There was one detail that absolutely blew our minds: the pendant lights hanging over the outdoor dining table were also heaters! Dining alfresco in the middle of winter and not feeling a hint of chill—now that’s genius. The quirky drinks trolley was a brilliant touch, especially when we wanted to bring our glasses out into the garden. And the garden’s pizza oven was a charming discovery; we didn’t have time to use it, which gives us the perfect excuse to come back.
What Does This Dream Cost?
I know what you’re thinking: how much does all this cost? Bookings start at around £1500, and let’s be honest, for six people, that’s not just a price—it’s an investment in an unforgettable experience. This includes a butler, daily breakfast prepared by a private chef, discreet housekeeping, and a complimentary minibar. If you wish, full-board arrangements can also be made. A pro tip: keep an eye out for the “Pay for 2, Stay for 3 nights” offer, which can bring the cost down to around £1000 per night.
The Best of the Best
What truly made Pink Door so wonderful was the feeling of “curated luxury” that enveloped us from the moment we arrived. Beyond the welcome snacks and drinks, our host returned later with a mixologist who prepared custom cocktails for us to enjoy in the garden. In the evening, we were treated to a lovingly prepared barbecue, or *braai*, with the table beautifully set for us on the veranda. The next morning, we woke to inviting aromas; not just a continental spread, but a full hot breakfast menu was waiting for us, freshly prepared by the cook in the back kitchen. With daily cleaning, turndown service, a complimentary minibar, and personalized help with our itinerary, it was truly the most seamless and effortless stay we’ve ever had. Pure pampering!
The Final Verdict
In short, Pink Door Franschhoek isn’t just a villa; it’s one of those experiences that leaves a mark, a true slice of paradise in the Franschhoek winelands. Having just arrived on the market, the team is eager to welcome all who seek a level of luxury that is simply unparalleled. I honestly cannot wait to go back!
