If you can go to just one of the Cape vineyard towns, Franschhoek is much quieter and less tourisity than Stellenbosch. The town’s name means French corner, and it really feels like Provence has come to South Africa. There’s a lovely restaurant called Le Quartier Francais which serves divine lunches. And if the driving gets too much and you want to stay for a few glasses of wine, there is a charming guesthouse behind the restaurant.
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I do agree that the food at LQF is to die for. The food in the bar is also really nice, not as rich but very good. There is a good atmosphere. I suggest that you don't visit Franschhoek just for the day. The charming guesthouse behind the restaurant is called Plumwood Inn. We stayed there 4 nights but could have stayed much longer. The rooms are really fabulous, they have 2 swimming pools and the most stunning views. The young hosts are Dutch, and they have decorated the rooms with attention to detail. It is very quiet in the garden, you just hear the birds singing. You walk to all the restaurants and hire a bike to get to the vineyards. For food, I can highly recommend Le Bon Vivant, Grande Provence, French Connection, Bouillabaisse, Monneaux and Mont Rochelle (previously La Couronne). If you want to take it easy one night, go for a pizza at Colcachhio or stay in the guesthouse for a lovely meal. I don't agree that Stellenbosch is more touristy than Franschhoek, I have stayed at both and I would definitely say it's the other way round. Franschhoek is much smaller but very geared up for the tourists with many restauants and gift shops. Stellenbosch is a real town with a large university.
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