Play hard, stretch easy, and relax!
If the word retreat conjures up meditation and hushed tones, think again… Fransvliet is redefining the term for an active new audience: in particular lovers of Padel and Pilates. The grape farm, with its cluster of spacious garden suites and villas, is a blissful spot for a weekend in Franschhoek, swathed in vines and framed by 360-degree mountain views. (Unlimited access to their private Padel court only enhances its appeal.)
Just three kilometres from the village itself, Fransvliet neighbours several notable wine estates (Maison, La Motte, Leopard’s Leap among them), making it a perfect base from which to explore, in between games of Padel, Pilates sessions, private wine-tastings, and more.
A weekend escape
Vanessa Du Plessis and team simply collect together all the things they love about the farm and invite guests to do as much (or as little) as they please. With only 12 guests there’s plenty of time for everyone to get court time (it’s available all day and night) and you’re encouraged to form pairs and groups for varied open play over the course of the weekend.
Even if your partner isn’t a keen player, there’s plenty more to enjoy: four scheduled Pilates sessions over the weekend with a certified coach, and a private wine-tasting with a boutique winemaker. In-between, you’re free to chill by the swimming pool, savour a slow morning with a book and coffee on the terrace of your suite, or head off to explore the Franschhoek Valley.
Activities included:
- unlimited access to Padel court
- 4 Pilates sessions with certified coach
- wine-tasting with boutique winemaker
- breakfast daily
- welcome braai
Optional extra: Saturday evening in Franschhoek
The lodgings
Light, spacious, sleek yet homely, each suite has French doors opening onto a private terrace and gardens with views over vines and mountains. There’s a fireplace for chilly winter evenings, a Nespresso machine for that pre-breakfast cuppa, a fridge to keep your bubbly chilled, and a sofa to stretch out on.
- king-size bed
- ensuite bathroom with bathtub and walk-in shower
- lounge area with smart TV
- fireplace
- Nespresso machine
- air-conditioning
- wifi
- terrace with outdoor seating
- breakfast included
- shared swimming pool
Whether you come to share your obsession with like-minded Padelistas, or just to enjoy a game or two in serene surroundings and soak up the Franschhoek scenery, this is an escape that will leave body and soul refreshed and restored in the true tradition of the weekend retreat.
Cost R6 800 per person sharing (2 nights)
R12 000 per person single occupancy (2 nights)
When 9 – 11 May; 18 – 20 July; 22 – 24 August 2025
Where to find it Fransvliet Estate, R45 Main Road, Le Roux, Franschhoek
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