Franschhoek The Valley of Dreams

Where French heritage, world-class wines and stunning scenery come together in South Africa’s charming village

“Wine is bottled poetry” - Robert Louis Stevenson

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Today’s Newsletter Presented By

A vineyard in Franschhoek, South Africa - Shutterstock

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In today’s email:

• Franschhoek The Valley of Dreams

• The Best Day-trips from New York City

• Around the World: Classic Cars and Wine; Franschhoek Nature Reserve;

  The Ultimate Irish Castle Bucket List and a whole lot more…

• Seasonal & Special Occasions To Add To Your List

• Into Orbit: Watch Falcon 9 launch from Kennedy Space Center with Starlink satellites

• From Social Media: Beachy Head, the South Downs, England

• Travel Grub: Lamb Bunny Chow Recipe

• Curious Cove: Franschhoek, Valley of Dreams

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Franschhoek The Valley of Dreams

Tucked away between majestic mountains and rolling vineyards, Franschhoek is South Africa’s “Valley of Dreams” - a place where French heritage blends with fine wine, gourmet cuisine, and breathtaking beauty. Established by Huguenot refugees in the 17th century, this charming village combines old-world elegance with contemporary luxury. Explore renowned wine estates, dine at award-winning restaurants, and journey through the valley aboard the iconic Wine Tram. Whether you’re in search of culinary excellence or peaceful scenery, Franschhoek is a dream realised

South Africa landscape, of Rickety Bridge Winery’s White Manor House and Vineyard in the stunning scenery of Franschhoek - Shutterstock

The Best Day-trips from New York City

Visiting New York City is an unforgettable experience—with its famous landmarks, world-class museums, and endless energy. But if you have a few extra days in your trip, why not take a break from the hustle and bustle and explore beyond the city?

There are many exciting places just a short drive or train ride away from NYC. From peaceful towns and beachside escapes to scenic hikes and historic spots, these destinations give you a chance to see a different side of New York and nearby states

A bear climbing on rocks at Bear Mountain State Park in Bear Mountain, NY - Shutterstock

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Around the World

Classic Cars and Wine

With a unique and exciting collection of vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and memorabilia in the magnificent setting of L’Ormarins, Franschhoek, you can book a museum tour, have a snack at our deli, or take a tram ride to Anthonij Rupert Wines for a wine tasting

Franschhoek Nature Reserve

The reserve is situated in part of the UNESCO declared Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve. Situated in the Franschhoek Mountains, the reserve boasts spectacular views of the Franschhoek Valley

A Visit to Robertsvallei

This old-school farm is home to horses, cattle, and goats. With wide open fields and a simple, peaceful atmosphere, it’s a place where traditional farm life thrives

Exquisite Eats in Cape Town

Experience exquisite cuisine and breathtaking views right in the heart of Cape Town. Whether you’re stopping by for a cocktail or staying to indulge in a full dining experience, every moment with us is unforgettable

A Boutique Chocolaterie

Located on Franschhoek’s main street, our boutique chocolaterie offers handcrafted delights made from the finest Belgian chocolate. Led by Belgian-trained chocolatiers Danver Windvogel and Denver Adonis, each treat is created with passion and precision

The Ultimate Irish Castle Bucket List

Visiting Ireland’s castles isn’t just about ticking landmarks off a list — it’s about stepping straight into the country’s story. Walk through centuries-old archways, feel the cool stone under your hands, and imagine the clang of swords or the soft chatter of medieval banquets. Each turret and tower carries echoes of lives once lived here. At Blarney Castle, you’ll do more than kiss the famous stone for the gift of the gab — you can wander through magical gardens filled with winding paths, hidden corners, and even a poison garden that would make any herbalist shiver with delight. Up north, Dunluce Castle perches dramatically on the edge of the Atlantic, its crumbling walls and haunting legends giving you goosebumps long before the sea spray reaches your face

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Seasonal & Special Occasions To Add To Your List

Explore this list of seasonal activities not to be missed.

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Into Orbit

Watch Falcon 9 launch from Kennedy Space Center with Starlink satellites

SpaceX sends 29 Starlink V2 mini satellites into orbit in the first of two overnight launches

Dream Chaser completes key tests ahead of first flight

Sierra Space has completed key testing milestones for its Dream Chaser vehicle as the company explores both civil and national security missions for the spaceplane

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From Social Media

Beachy Head, the South Downs, England

Travel Grub

Recipe

Lamb Bunny Chow Recipe

Curious Cove

Franschhoek, Valley of Dreams

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