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Luxury Lakeside Glamping in Franschhoek

Dawn Mountains Estate Lakeside Glamping Chardonnay | A luxurious glamping tent set upon a raised wooden platform beside a tranquil body of water, surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees, with a backdrop of distant mountains under a soft pink and blue evening sky; the spacious canvas structure features an open front with comfortable outdoor seating and a railing, while a small adjacent modern building likely provides amenities, together creating a serene yet stylish retreat that blends natural beauty with modern comfort in a quintessentially idyllic countryside setting.

Lakeside Glamping Chardonnay

Experience a unique Franschhoek accommodation escape in this beautifully appointed lakeside glamping tent. Featuring a plush bed, stylish décor, and a private wood-fired hot tub, it offers the perfect setting to unwind beneath the stars, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a peaceful getaway in the heart of Franschhoek.

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Dawn Mountains Estate Lakeside Glamping Chenin | A stylish, contemporary bedroom with a touch of rustic charm. The space features a comfortable bed with crisp white linens and a green upholstered headboard, complemented by vibrant cushions in a bold leaf pattern of blues, greens, and yellows. A wooden panel behind the bed adds warmth, while an air-conditioning unit above ensures comfort. To the left, a sleek glass-enclosed shower and vanity area bring a modern edge, enhanced by polished wooden flooring and soft neutral rugs. The ceiling, draped in light fabric, gives the room a tent-like feel, accentuated by a ceiling fan and elegant chandelier. The overall design blends natural textures and modern finishes, creating a tranquil yet sophisticated retreat.

Lakeside Glamping Chenin

Lakeside Glamping Chenin offers a unique Franschhoek accommodation experience, combining the beauty of nature with modern comfort. Unwind in your private wood-fired hot tub while enjoying breathtaking lake and mountain views. Perfect for romantic getaways, peaceful retreats, and wedding guests, this luxury self-catering glamping tent provides an unforgettable stay in the heart of Franschhoek.

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Dawn Mountains Estate Lakeside Glamping Blesbok | Luxury tent interior at Dawn Mountains glamping site featuring large bed with brown leather headboard and matching bench at the foot. Bed is neatly made with crisp white linens, decorative pillows, and towel folded into a shape on top. Above, a ceiling light fixture with multiple bulbs adds warm ambience. Fabric walls and ceiling frame the cosy bedroom arrangement, blending outdoor camping elements with boutique luxury comfort.

Lakeside Glamping Blesbok

Lakeside Glamping Blesbok offers a luxurious Franschhoek accommodation experience in the heart of the Cape Winelands. This self-catering glamping tent features a private wood-fired hot tub, plush interiors, and breathtaking mountain views, creating the perfect blend of comfort, relaxation, and nature. Ideal for romantic getaways, peaceful retreats, and wedding guests seeking a memorable stay in Franschhoek.

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Dawn Mountains Estate Lakeside Glamping Steenbok | Luxury glamping tent at Dawn Mountains built on stilts above calm reflective water surrounded by trees and hillside greenery. Beige canvas roof and open deck create a serene outdoor retreat with boutique camping charm. The tranquil setting highlights South African nature, combining rustic architecture with modern comfort for a peaceful escape.

Lakeside Glamping Steenbok

Lakeside Glamping Steenbok offers luxury Franschhoek accommodation with breathtaking Winelands and mountain views. Featuring a private wood-fired hot tub, stylish interiors, and all the comforts needed for a relaxing stay, this self-catering glamping tent is where nature meets indulgence. Enjoy panoramic scenery by day and spectacular sunsets by evening, making every moment of your Franschhoek getaway unforgettable.

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Dawn Mountains Estate Lakeside Glamping Springbok | A serene glamping-style retreat set on a raised wooden platform above calm water, surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees. The structure itself is a beige canvas tent with sturdy metal poles, blending rustic charm with modern comfort. A small deck extends outward, furnished with two lounge chairs that invite relaxation while overlooking the reflective surface of the water. The tranquil setting, with the tent mirrored in the water below and framed by natural foliage, conveys a luxurious yet eco-friendly atmosphere designed to immerse guests in nature without sacrificing comfort.

Lakeside Glamping Springbok

Lakeside Glamping Springbok offers a luxury Franschhoek accommodation experience, combining rustic charm with modern comfort. This beautifully appointed self-catering glamping tent features a private wood-fired hot tub and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake. Perfect for romantic getaways, peaceful retreats, and wedding guests, it provides an unforgettable escape in the heart of the Franschhoek Winelands.

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What our guests say...

Dawn Mountains Estate | A young person with long brown hair standing outdoors in front of dense green foliage, likely evergreen trees or shrubs, with sunlight casting a warm glow across their face and hair; they are dressed in a simple black top that contrasts strikingly with the bright natural background, and the overall composition highlights the interplay of shadow and light, creating a serene yet vivid atmosphere that draws attention to the subject’s calm presence amidst the lush greenery.
Jade
January 2025
Lakeside Glamping Chenin

Truly an incredible experience at Dawn Mountains. The hot-tub was by the far the best feature of the tent. Our hosts had thought of absolutely everything from ice in the freezer to convenient plugs/ sockets on either side of the bed. Our hosts were responsive and very friendly. Truly wish we had stayed there for longer. We can’t wait to return!

Dawn Mountains Estate | A cheerful outdoor scene shows three people gathered near a canal or river, possibly seated in a small boat or at the water’s edge; the person in the foreground, wearing a green jumper with sunglasses resting on their head, smiles directly at the camera, while two companions behind them also smile warmly; the background features leafy green trees, a bridge, and a wall with colourful graffiti, all under a partly cloudy daytime sky, creating a lively and relaxed atmosphere.
Ewald
January 2025
Lakeside Glamping Chenin

Really beautiful setting and great place to have a very chilled stay. It’s in the middle of the wine region and great to venture out for tastings and food. We used Uber (so we could taste the wine) to get around and went to a number of beautiful wineries in the neighbourhood, incl Balylonstoren which is great for food. The best is to have the exterior hot tub under the stars!

Dawn Mountains Estate | Two cheerful individuals standing closely together outdoors at night, smiling warmly at the camera, with a backdrop of twinkling string lights draped vertically from a tree that lend a festive glow to the scene; behind them, a white canopy tent shelters a small gathering of people, suggesting a lively social event or celebration, while the overall atmosphere is illuminated by the decorative lighting that highlights both the subjects’ expressions and the convivial setting.
Mark
January 2025
Lakeside Glamping Chardonnay

Words fail to express the breathtaking beauty of the setup and location. My wife and I were left speechless, contemplating extending our stay to another night.

Dawn Mountains Estate | Man seated at a wooden table in a lively restaurant or bar setting, wearing a white shirt with a dark sweater draped over his shoulders and smiling toward the camera, with a bottle of wine labelled Chocolate Block, a filled wine glass and another hand holding a glass on the table, framed by warm lighting and blurred figures in the background, creating a convivial atmosphere that conveys social dining, wine culture and contemporary hospitality branding.
Kyle
January 2025
Lakeside Glamping Chardonnay

Lovely Dam Cottage on the waters edge with everything you need to relax and unwind for your stay. Very peaceful and intimate.

Dawn Mountains Estate | Two people seated closely together at what appears to be a formal celebration, such as a wedding reception, with softly lit tables and chairs visible in the background; the person on the left has light-coloured hair styled neatly, is wearing make-up including striking red lipstick, and is dressed in elegant attire, while the person on the right has short dark hair and is dressed smartly in a black suit paired with a crisp white shirt and a boutonnière of small white flowers pinned to the lapel, both individuals presenting a polished and festive appearance in the warmly lit indoor setting.
Nikita
January 2025
Lakeside Glamping Chardonnay

Magnificent stay. The accommodation is in pristine condition and it is situated in a relaxing environment. All personnel were friendly and helpful.

Dawn Mountains Estate | A smiling woman outdoors on a sunny day, standing in front of a stone wall with a white railing above it, suggesting a historical or architectural site; they are wearing a floral-patterned top and have sunglasses resting on their head, with the bright natural light highlighting their cheerful expression and the relaxed atmosphere of the scene.
Sabrina
January 2025
Tranquil Lakeside Cottage

I had a great stay at Dawn Mountain Farms. It was very peaceful and it had a gorgeous views. I would definitely visit again.

Dawn Mountains Estate | A person with short, light brown hair standing indoors against a white wall, with a shelf behind them displaying several colourful figurines and decorative objects, including a small pink figure and a purple cup; the natural lighting, likely from a nearby window, highlights the subject’s face and creates a warm, homely atmosphere that emphasises both the individual and the personal touches of the background setting.
Shani
December 2024
Tranquil Lakeside Cottage

A lovely peaceful spot with gorgeous views. Delighted with the hot tub and relaxing deck chairs. Would definitely visit again.

Dawn Mountains Estate | An adult is standing outdoors on a balcony, smiling warmly while holding an infant. The adult is dressed in a light-coloured jacket with dark stripes. The infant, dressed in pale clothing, is grasping a green leaf. Behind them, a wooden railing frames the scene, with lush green foliage and vibrant pink flowers in the background, suggesting a garden setting. The overall atmosphere is bright, cheerful, and natural, capturing a tender moment of interaction between the adult and child.
Lize
November 2024
Tranquil Lakeside Cottage

We loved our stay at Dawn Mountain Farms, especially the location right on the dam and the wood fired hot tub. Everything was clean and comfortable, we felt right at home and enjoyed all the little details and overall feeling of luxury. The ducks and jumping fish were also very entertaining.

what to do in Franschhoek

Unforgettable experiences

Dawn Mountains Estate | A meticulously designed formal garden in the British countryside, showcasing symmetrical sections of neatly clipped hedges, gravel pathways, and carefully arranged shrubs and small trees, interspersed with pergolas draped in flowering plants; beyond the geometric layout, white colonial-style estate buildings with pitched roofs stand against a backdrop of rolling farmland, blending ornamental precision with rural charm in a scene that highlights both artistry and horticultural discipline.

Explore Babylonstoren

Just a short drive away, Babylonstoren is a must-see destination offering exquisite gardens, wine tastings, and spa experiences. Babylonstoren is one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, set at the foot of Simonsberg in the Franschhoek wine valley. It has a fruit and vegetable garden of beauty and diversity, unique accommodation, fine food and wine, and evokes a sense of wellbeing.
Dawn Mountains Estate | A dramatic mountainous landscape with rugged peaks rising under a clear blue sky dotted with a few scattered clouds, while a deep valley below cradles a winding river or reservoir that reflects the light and adds a sense of calm contrast to the rocky terrain; in the foreground, uneven stone surfaces and sparse vegetation frame the view, emphasising the scale and natural beauty of the geological formations and the serene waterway nestled between them.

Get Up High At Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve

The reserve is part of the UNESCO-declared Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve. Situated in the Franschhoek Mountains, the reserve boasts spectacular views of the Franschhoek Valley (on a clear day, one can see as far as Table Mountain), diverse plant life, and well-maintained hiking and walking trails. Spectacular fynbos diversity includes proteas, pincushions, ericas, restios, and more.
Dawn Mountains Estate | A group of five hikers gathered on a rocky hilltop viewpoint, with one person standing and pointing into the distance while holding a walking pole, suggesting leadership or guidance. The others are seated or standing nearby on uneven rocks, all gazing towards the same direction, which opens onto a sweeping valley of fields framed by a distant mountain range under a clear blue sky. The scene conveys a sense of outdoor adventure, camaraderie, and appreciation of the natural landscape, with the rugged terrain and expansive view highlighting both the challenge and reward of hiking in the countryside.

Explore La Motte’s Flora And Fauna

The Sustainable Hike is a further expression of La Motte’s commitment to the highest conservation and biodiversity standards and the protection of precious indigenous flora and fauna in the mountain area surrounding the estate and the adjoining Wemmershoek mountain range. It offers the ideal opportunity to explore abundant birdlife, a protea garden, sustainably farmed vineyards, a wealth of flora, resident mammals and reptiles, and the Franschhoek Valley’s breathtaking vistas. The circular route, which starts at the La Motte Tasting Room, stretches over five kilometers, with the hiking trail section covering two kilometers. The time required to complete the trail is about two hours when walking and three hours when strolling.
Dawn Mountains Estate | A cosy, sunlit workspace that appears to be dedicated to crafting fragrances or essential oil blends. A wooden table is neatly arranged with amber glass dropper bottles, clear flasks, and a beaker containing a golden liquid placed on a digital scale. An open notebook with a pen suggests careful note-taking of formulas or measurements. Around the workspace, green plants and decorative glass bottles add a natural, serene touch, while the soft daylight streaming through the window enhances the warm, artisanal atmosphere. The scene evokes a sense of calm precision and creative experimentation typical of a perfumer’s or apothecary’s studio.

Make Your Own Scent At Kumanov Perfumery

With decades of expertise, the scent artisans at Perfume Prive Workshop guide countless groups in crafting their own signature fragrances. Utilizing the finest-quality perfumes sourced from around the globe, these specialists create exquisite, harmonious blends free from the harsh undertones typically found in chemical-based scents. Step into their fragrant realm and discover the scent that resonates with you. Learn to weave your unique signature fragrance from authentic perfume oils, and become the envy of friends and family alike. Experience the artistry of scent creation in a truly inspiring environment.
Dawn Mountains Estate | A thoughtful moment inside a museum or gallery, where two adults and a child stand together observing a striking sculpture of a human head crafted from a dark, textured material and placed on a white pedestal; the setting blends old and new architectural elements, with a stone wall and staircase contrasting against modern design features, creating an atmosphere that highlights cultural engagement, curiosity, and shared appreciation of art.

Spend The Morning Gallery-Hopping

What pairs perfectly with food and wine? In Franschhoek, the answer is art. The town’s main street, Huguenot Street, is lined with galleries catering to a variety of artistic tastes. Be sure to visit AITY (located at Heritage Square, with another branch at 1 Main Road), The Rodwell Gallery (housed in a charming historic building), Abé Opperman (known for whimsical monochromatic pieces), and Ebony/Curated, which also highlights design (with a second branch nearby on Bordeaux Street).
Dawn Mountains Estate | A lively evening market scene in a wooded outdoor setting, where strings of warm glowing lights and circular decorative ornaments suspended from the trees create a festive atmosphere. Numerous people, casually dressed, stroll and socialise along rows of illuminated vendor stalls, many of which appear to be serving food or drinks. The overall ambience is communal and cheerful, with the soft golden lighting contrasting against the dusky sky, highlighting the sense of celebration and togetherness in this bustling gathering.

Browse The Friday Night Market At Boschendal

Boschendal’s picturesque gardens and breathtaking mountain views are a delight any day, but on Friday evenings, its historic Werf transforms into the ultimate destination. The lively night market, adorned with fairy lights, offers live music, kids’ entertainment, and an abundance of food and drink, making it perfect for a relaxed outing with family or friends. Pre-order a sharing snack box filled with farm-fresh treats, or enjoy pizzas, boerie rolls, oysters, and platters at the Wine Bar. Kids will love The Treehouse playground and pump track—right next to the Werf—featuring one of the best jungle gyms around. The Werf Restaurant, Deli, and Farm Shop also stay open on Friday nights.
Dawn Mountains Estate | A warmly lit wine cellar or tasting room where an individual in a crisp white shirt and distinctive red-framed glasses is seated at a rustic wooden table, carefully examining a glass of champagne held close to their face as if assessing its aroma; three additional filled champagne glasses rest neatly on the table, while behind them shelves display oversized bottles of champagne and wine, prominently featuring the label “Pommery,” and a framed poster with the word “CHARLEMAGNE” and illustrations of historical figures adorns the wall, all contributing to a refined, leisurely atmosphere that conveys the essence of a professional wine-tasting experience.

Taste Cap Classique At Haute Cabrière

Located in the charming, French-inspired Franschhoek Wine Valley, Haute Cabrière is a name synonymous with the elegance of Cap Classique. The stunning views from their tasting room are reason enough to visit, but the true magic lies in their Pierre Jourdan range. Here, tradition meets innovation, with each sip offering a harmonious blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The result is a captivating Cap Classique that delights the palate and embodies refined craftsmanship.
Dawn Mountains Estate Mont Rochelle Hotel & Vineyard | A serene countryside picnic scene beside a tranquil lake, framed by lush greenery and majestic mountains under a clear blue sky. A blue-and-white striped blanket is spread neatly on the grass, adorned with wooden serving boards holding an inviting array of food — corn on the cob, sliced meats, cheeses, fresh vegetables, and bread — alongside two glasses of rich red wine. The calm water reflects the surrounding trees and hills, while the distant village nestled at the mountain’s base adds a touch of charm. The overall atmosphere evokes a leisurely summer afternoon, perfect for savouring good food and peaceful views in nature’s embrace.

Picnic At Mont Rochelle Hotel & Vineyard

Explore Mont Rochelle’s picturesque grounds with our gourmet picnic baskets, brimming with delicious local fare and treats.
Dawn Mountains Estate | A person stands barefoot on the rocky shore of a tranquil lake, holding a fishing rod in one hand while reaching towards the water with the other, as a fish breaks the surface and creates gentle ripples; they wear a hat, shorts, and a light-coloured t-shirt with a geometric design, framed by the reflection of towering mountains and lush trees under a clear blue sky, capturing a peaceful moment of fishing in a scenic natural setting.

Go Trout Fishing At La Ferme

Fishing is a beloved pastime for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, offering the perfect opportunity to relax by the water and let the stresses of daily life fade away. Our farm features four fishing dams, regularly stocked with trout, bass, and carp, ideal for fly fishing and spinning. The tranquil Wemmershoek River also flows through the property, providing an idyllic spot to cool off on hot summer days, enjoy sundowners, or cast a line.
Dawn Mountains Estate Franschhoek | A spacious indoor exhibition hall showcasing a collection of vintage automobiles, arranged neatly in two rows behind blue rope barriers with individual information stands in front of each car; the hall features a high white ceiling with dark beams, tiled flooring, and a backdrop of colourful retro signs including a prominent blue “Ford V8” emblem, a “Caltex Petrol” sign, and “Peugeot” and “Pegasus” logos, while the vehicles themselves—many with open tops, brass fittings, and early 20th‑century styling—highlight the evolution of automotive design and the careful preservation of motoring heritage in a museum‑like setting.

Marvel At Franschhoek Motor Museum

The Franschhoek Motor Museum is a must-visit destination in South Africa, offering a fascinating journey through over 100 years of automotive history. Perfect for tourists, local families, and motor enthusiasts, the museum boasts a collection of more than 220 vehicles, including treasures like the 1898 Beeston motor tricycle. At any given time, over 80 exhibits are on display in four climate-controlled halls, covering a total floor area of 2,700 m² and arranged in chronological order. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of L’Ormarins Estate, the museum features an extraordinary array of cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and memorabilia. Visitors can enhance their experience with a guided museum tour, enjoy a bite at the on-site deli, or take a scenic tram ride to Anthonij Rupert Wines for a wine tasting.
Dawn Mountains Estate | Two cyclists riding mountain bikes along a dusty trail bordered by tall white wildflowers and lush greenery, with neat rows of grapevines stretching across the background beneath a clear blue sky; the bright sunlight creates a striking backlit effect that highlights the figures and the surrounding landscape, evoking a sense of outdoor adventure, fitness, and the tranquil beauty of the countryside.

Ride The Franschhoek Trail Network

The breathtaking mountains surrounding the Berg River Dam in Franschhoek offer a thrilling mountain biking adventure. With a permit, you’ll gain full-day access to this scenic playground. Starting at the entrance gate on Robertsvlei Road, you’ll discover miles of trails and single tracks winding through the rugged terrain, offering challenges to suit every rider. Reach high lookout points for spectacular views of the Franschhoek Valley, the Boland mountains, and the landscape stretching towards the Southern Ocean. On clear days, you can even spot Table Mountain in the distance—a rewarding sight for your efforts.
Dawn Mountains Estate | A close-up of a light brown horse being ridden outdoors, fitted with a bridle, reins, and bit, and wearing a purple ear bonnet that matches the purple saddle pad beneath the rider’s saddle; the rider’s boot and leg are visible, emphasising the detailed tack and equipment used in equestrian sport, while the blurred greenery in the background suggests a natural riding setting.

Horse Ride In The Vineyards

Saddle up and discover the beauty of Franschhoek on horseback. As you wander through the vineyards, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery at every turn, all while learning about the rich history of this remarkable wine region, which dates back over 300 years. Feeling thirsty after your ride? Conclude this unforgettable experience with a wine tasting, sampling some of the very wines produced from the vineyards you explored—a perfect way to experience the journey from vine to glass.
Dawn Mountains Estate Franschhoek Wine Tram | A charming double‑decker tram painted in green and cream with polished wooden panelling and wide windows travels along a railway track through rolling vineyards under a clear blue sky, framed by majestic mountains in the distance. The front bears elegant script reading “Franschhoek Wine Tram,” signalling its role in offering scenic wine tours through South Africa’s renowned Franschhoek Valley. The vintage design evokes nostalgia and romance, blending seamlessly with the tranquil landscape, while the combination of natural beauty and leisurely transport captures the essence of wine tourism in this idyllic region.

Ride The Franschhoek Wine Tram

Short on time but eager to visit multiple wine farms in a day? Hop aboard the Franschhoek Wine Tram, a must-do activity in the valley. With eight unique routes to choose from, you can tailor your journey based on your wine preferences. Simply hop on and off the tram as you explore the estates that catch your eye. If you start early and stick to a schedule, it’s possible to visit up to nine farms in a single day. However, we recommend selecting your top four and taking your time to soak in the full experience—there’s so much more to discover at each stop beyond the wine!
Dawn Mountains Estate | A row of five tulip-shaped beer glasses sits neatly on a polished wooden bar counter, each filled with a different style of beer that showcases a striking spectrum of colours, ranging from deep brown through amber and golden to a pale straw yellow, all topped with frothy heads; the softly blurred background suggests the warm, dimly lit atmosphere of a pub or brewery, highlighting the diversity of brewing techniques and ingredients that create such varied appearances and flavours.

Go Beer Tasting

Calling all beer enthusiasts! Over the past few years, craft beer has gained tremendous popularity in South Africa, and Franschhoek is home to some of the country’s finest breweries. Swap your wine glass for a pint and explore a variety of unique and flavorful beers. Once you find your favourite brew, kick back and enjoy a sunny afternoon with a cold pint in hand. Be sure to visit some of the top breweries in the area, including The Franschhoek Beer Co, Tuk Tuk Microbrewery, and the latest addition, Hey Joe Brewing Co.