Franschhoek may be known for its world-class wine estates and acclaimed restaurants, but there’s a more peaceful side to this bustling valley — one you’ll find high above the vineyards at 7 Koppies. This boutique guesthouse, set high above the valley on its own 125-acre private reserve, offers something rare: true seclusion without sacrificing style or substance.

Just 15 minutes from the village and yet a world away, 7 Koppies is a place where you can hear the wind in the fynbos, sip a G&T as the sun sets over the Simonsberg mountains, and wake up to uninterrupted views of the Franschhoek Valley. It’s more than just a luxury stay — it’s a feeling. A home, even. And for many guests, it becomes one of the most memorable parts of their South African journey.

Named one of the top ten hotels in Franschhoek by South Africa’s Inside Guide, 7 Koppies has also been featured in House & Garden UK and How To Spend It by the Financial Times, and is part of the handpicked collections at Smith Hotels and Pretty Hotels.

1. Where You Stay Matters: Location, Views & That First Breath of Fresh Air
The drive to 7 Koppies sets the tone: a short dirt track winds through orchards and wild bush until you reach the crest of a hill, where a pared-back farmhouse sits in quiet command of the view. From here, the Franschhoek Valley unfurls in every direction. The sunsets, especially in summer, are spectacular. Guests have been known to cancel dinner plans just to watch the colours melt into the mountains. Facing west and completely private, 7 Koppies is surrounded by indigenous fynbos, part of the Cape Floral Kingdom. It’s not uncommon to spot a duiker or hear the rustle of porcupines at night. With no neighbours in sight, and only six rooms plus a one-bedroom cottage, it’s an exclusive escape where you can genuinely disconnect.

2. A Place That Feels Like Home (Only Better)
Step inside and you’ll understand what sets this place apart. The interiors feel layered, lived-in, and deeply personal — not designed to impress, but to soothe. Artisanal furniture, old family heirlooms, and raw, honest materials like stone, timber and lime-plaster walls combine to create what some guests have called “farmhouse chic with soul.” Each room is different, with thoughtful details like hand-stitched linens, fresh flowers from the garden, and books that reflect the owners’ own tastes. The result? A place that feels more like staying with a (very stylish) friend than in a hotel.

3. That Pool Though…
The 25-metre infinity pool is arguably the most photogenic in Franschhoek. Perfectly
positioned to take in the valley views, it draws guests out with a book, a drink, or simply a towel and a need to float. Flanked by two barn-like pavilions and surrounded by loungers, it’s the heartbeat of the estate on a warm day. Come sunset, this is the spot to be. Watch the mountains turn from amber to mauve while Artwell — the inimitable butler — serves up one of his legendary negronis.

4. Soul Food & Garden Goodness
Food at 7 Koppies is nourishing, generous, and full of flavour. Much of it comes straight from the estate’s veggie patch and orchard: kale, carrots, herbs, lemons, avocados, and seasonal fruits all make their way into the day’s menu.

Breakfasts are slow and satisfying, best taken by the fire in winter or out on the terrace when it’s warm. Think fresh-baked bread, local cheeses, poached eggs with herbs from the garden. Light lunches can be arranged, and for dinner, Artwell and the team prepare comforting favourites: chicken pie, schnitzel, pasta with pesto, bobotie with all its trimmings. You can also expect homemade jams, pickles, cordials, and even the occasional vodka jelly. Wine lovers are in good hands. The cellar is compact but carefully chosen, with many labels from local estates including Anthonij Rupert and Mullineux. Guests are welcome to bring their own favourites too.

5. Nature Trails & Quiet Corners
With 125 acres of pristine fynbos and hiking trails that start at your doorstep, 7 Koppies is ideal for walkers and wanderers. There’s a trail that leads up to Bakenkop, the estate’s highest hilltop, for panoramic views, and others that wind through the valley. Prefer to do nothing? There are sun loungers, a sauna-with-a-view waiting and now even a hot tub waiting to be discovered. The silence here is profound. And when you’re ready to rejoin the world, Franschhoek’s wineries, galleries, and restaurants are all close by.

6. Romance, Retreats & Milestones
7 Koppies is made for special moments. With its cinematic setting, it has hosted over 50 marriage proposals — many on the koppie at sunset. It’s also popular with honeymooners who stay in the private pool cottage, complete with its own terrace, hot tub and outdoor bath.
If you’re celebrating something — an anniversary, a big birthday, or just a hard-earned holiday — the team can arrange candlelit dinners, spa treatments, and curated outings. But the biggest luxury of all is the feeling of having the whole place (almost) to yourself.

7. What Makes 7 Koppies Different
– Authenticity over pretence: It’s elegant but unfussy. Every detail is considered, but nothing is showy.
– Space to breathe: With so few guests and such a large estate, you’ll always find space to be alone.

– Real people, real warmth: The team feels like old friends. Guests come back not just for the views, but for the feeling.
– Spectacular views: Did we mention the sunsets?

7 Koppies isn’t trying to be the most glamorous hotel in Franschhoek. What it offers instead is much rarer: peace, privacy, and profound beauty. It’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left, where time slows down, and the air smells of fynbos and woodsmoke. For couples, solo travellers, or small groups of friends looking to reconnect with themselves and nature, 7 Koppies is one of the most romantic, relaxing, and inspiring places to stay in Franschhoek. And if you’re lucky enough to be watching the sunset from the pool with a glass of Anthonij Rupert bubbly in hand, you’ll understand why.