Tourdeboland day 5 on Thursday 5 March 2026
Never a dull moment in the life of a tour organizer(s). Franschhoek pass was open at the start of our tour but seems likely to be closed again by the time we need to pass there. And we won’t take any chances. Hence our contingency route right here. Some might even call it an upgrade. We leave Goudini Spa and go up the beautiful Slanghoek Valley Road once more, but this time scaling our favourite Bainskloof pass from the long side. And stopping for coffee at the famous mobile BOOMHUIS at the top – a room with a view (waterpoint 1 is at 40kms). A winding descent into Wellington and we take the road less traveled through Paarl and onto our second water point at the Nelson Mandela statue at the Drakenstein prison (81kms). Then a wide yellow shoulder to lead us into Franschhoek as we head straight for the Huguenot Memorial Monument. Which is a stone’s throw from our accommodation for the evening.
📷 Photo spots for John: at his Boombuis on Bainskloof and finish at the Huguenots museum. Perfect!
Guests stay at The LAB in Franschhoek
A boutique-style guesthouse in the heart of Franschhoek, offering luxurious accommodation with breathtaking views and a sparkling pool, supplemented by theLAB Villas – Next to theLAB Franschhoek, a luxury retreat for families or groups. Each duplex has two spacious en-suite bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private patio with gas braai. And theLAB Luxury Backpackers – ideal for travellers who love comfort without the fuss. Just a short walk from the town centre, with easy access to top wineries, local eats, and breathtaking mountain views.
What happens on arrival?
Drinks and snacks at the LAB while you wait for your room. Then freshen up and get ready for wine tasting at Chamonix. Wine tasting sittings start at 3pm and 4pm. It takes approx. 1hr each. there will will smaller tables and personalized individual tastings. The shuttles start from 14.45 from the LAB. And afterwards we have our final group dinner – see your there at 6pm. The dinner venue is Hussar Grill in Franschhoek. The dinner menu is below.
- 7am – breakfast in room
- 8am – start cycling
- 2pm – rooms ready
- Drinks+snacks on arrival
- 3pm & 4pm – wine tasting
- 6pm – last group dinner
How to get there?
- From the LAB to Chamonix is a 2.5km walk up a little hill. Or you can hop in one of the shuttles with mark who will take you there.
- From Chamonix to Hussar Grill is a 1.5km walk down the hill from the wine tasting to the restaurant. Easiest way to get to dinner after your wine tasting.
- From the LAB to Hussar Grill is a 1.5km walk down to main road.
