Scenic view of a white church surrounded by vineyards and mountains in Africa.
South Africa boasts several towns that mirror the charm of French locales. Franschhoek, established by French Huguenots in the 17th century, features French-inspired architecture, wine estates, and tree-lined streets, offering a taste of France in the Western Cape. Tulbagh, set against a mountain backdrop with nearby wine farms and olive groves, exudes the serenity of southern France. Clarens, nestled near the Maluti Mountains, delivers a mountain-town vibe reminiscent of the French Alps, complete with cosy cafés and art galleries. Paternoster, a coastal town with whitewashed fishermen’s cottages and seafood bistros, evokes the simplicity of French seaside villages.