A bit about this place

A romantic bolt-hole for two intrepid travellers. An hour’s drive from Cape Town and 45 minutes from Cape Town International Airport. Originally settled by French Huguenots in the 17th century, Franschhoek has become the gourmet capital of South Africa. This picturesque village, nestling between towering mountains in the Cape Winelands, offers not only food and wine, but also a vibrant,artistic community in one of the most beautiful valleys in the country. The Map Room is located in one of the oldest and grandest streets of Franschhoek; Cabriere Street. This section of the street is one of the last streets to remain un-tarred in the village, retaining its ‘agricultural’ feel, where tractors still ply the track. This unusual accommodation is arranged over two floors with the bedroom downstairs and the living area upstairs accessed through a spiral staircase. Living Quarters at raised ground-level: One gargantuan master bedroom with inbuilt sultan’s bath leading into an en-suite ‘wet-room’ with shower, loo and basin. There is a ceiling fan above the bed and heating panels on the walls. Downstairs: Hallway, guest bathroom with shower, loo and basin. Spiral staircase leading to upstairs living area. First floor: The watering hole, grazing area and place to kick off your thousand-milers. Expansive openplan and double-volume kitchen/living room and dining area with a log fireplace. Flat-screen TV with DSTV, DVD and classic movie selection. Perfect for unwinding after a long attack at the local vineyards, or a gorging meal at one of Franschhoeks’ many restaurants. Six folding glass doors open onto the deck with barbecue, table and chairs, looking out across the vineyards and mountains. There is a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher and washing machine and the Map Room has a fast WiFi connection for those who want time to research their next expedition into the wild blue yonder. summary: • DSTV (satellite) for music and TV. • DVD player with classic movie library • Fitted kitchen with all appliances • Central island cooking station • Open wood fireplace • Electronic security system • Outdoor entertaining area on the first floor balcony with table and chairs • Braai/barbecue • Secure off-street parking • Wireless ADSL connection for laptop use • Ceiling fans in all roomsHairdryer HOUSEKEEPING A maid is available to service the house at an extra charge upon request. First two intrepid travellers’comments in the logbook: ‘Thank you for letting us be the first to experience the Map Room ... you have inspired us in many directions. We loved staying and filling up the Map Room with happy spirits ... wonderful stay ... the charm and character you invested in creating ‘The Map Room’ made our stay very special.’ Dorothee and Cobo ‘Jo, you’ve done a superb job here. The treasure hunt for the key beneath a guardian mountain sheep was certainly worth it for the reward. There’s a very soothing lightness of touch to the design. The perfect antidote to biking through the local vineyards! Thank you very much. There’s no doubt I will be recommending the Map Room to anyone who comes to within a nose of the Winelands.’ All the best. Matthew Hilton-Dennis Also available in Franschhoek http://www.safarinow.com/go/cookscottage