A few weeks ago the Iconic Africa Team were treated to an exquisite luncheon at La Residence in Franschhoek. An experience definitely worth re-visiting!
Perched amongst the vineyards, on the slopes of the beautiful Franschhoek Mountains is this pinnacle of luxury and an unrivalled piece of heaven – La Residence. Voted Conde Nast’s No 1 Hotel in the World in 2013 amongst a myriad of other awards, La Residence is a must for any bucket list. The sprawling green lawns speckled with majestic springbok, the private dam complete with island, rowboat and soft flowing willow trees, instil an awe-inspiring sense of peace. La Residence opened its doors in 2008 and as a flagship property of the illustrious Biden family-owned Royal Portfolio, has been embracing and astounding guests with an unparalleled level of luxury ever since.
The staff at La Residence are the epitome of true African hospitality and their wholehearted commitment to excellence is impenetrable. There isn’t a request they haven’t had from guests and they oblige willingly with a smile and laugh. The staff will direct you to the best restaurants and wine farms the valley has to offer, so be sure to ask them as the infinite choices will no doubt overwhelm you.
Any meal at La Residence is a wonder to behold. Seated either under the tremendous terracotta arches overlooking the lawns, pool and mountain or in the classical dining room on a burgundy winged-back armchair you are in for a revelation. The menu is specifically crafted each day and so you will never have the same dish twice.
Our choice of the day was the Croque Madame with a side of the Gorgonzola salad or the pan seared smoked salmon trout, both lovely light lunch options. Accompanied by a glass (or two) of the Graham Beck Brut – the very same Cap Classique that both Nelson Mandela and Barack Obama toasted with, on their inauguration dinners, you immediately feel like a celebrity! Top it off with a chocolate strawberry roulade with salted caramel and berry compote or an array of Franschhoek valley cheeses and you couldn’t be more content.
After a long, lazy, luxurious lunch and maybe a little too much Cap Classique we were all ready for a much-needed afternoon nap!
Whether you are a wine connoisseur, a mountain biker or a food enthusiast the Franschhoek Valley is for you and if it is the ultimate in luxury and homeliness that you desire, La Residence couldn’t be more perfect.