La Residence Franschhoek – Wedding Venue Review

Cape Winelands

Think 5-star opulence, luxury and royal service – That is a very modest description of La Residence Franschhoek Hotel & Spa! Over the last few years, this magnificent establishment has proved itself one the jewels of the Cape Winelands! There are but a few that can compete with the charm and sheer class of this lovely Wedding Venue. La Residence is set on a 30-hectare private estate on the foot of the Franschhoek mountains and is surrounded by plum orchards, lavender fields and vineyards. It is set on the outskirts of one of South Africa’s most famous villages, Franschhoek and just an hour from Cape Town by car. The hotel is part of The Royal Portfolio that includes other famous establishments like Birkenhead House in Hermanus and soon to open The Silo Hotel in the V&A Waterfront.

La Residence Franschhoek Wedding Venue

Is This Wedding Venue for You?

It will appeal to… If you’ve dreamed of a classic, black tie wedding, then this is the one for you. The Hotel itself is a mix between modern rural French and middle eastern architecture with fountains and lush creepers decorating the entrance. The interior speaks of extravagance, with a classic chequered floor filled with beautiful antiques, Persian rugs, crystal chandeliers and luxurious fabrics to create an atmosphere of unequalled opulence. The main dining hall opens up to a marble tiled, U-shaped courtyard that ends in a rim flow pool with vistas over the mountain and orchards.

Then there is the Persian Alley, an open-air section that overlooks the dam with black swans and the whole of the Franschhoek valley. I have seen the most amazing sunsets here in summer, with the skies painted in beautiful colours. The max pax is 150 but I would say that La Residence is ideally suited for smaller, intimate weddings of between 40 and 60, Imagine your closest family and friends dressed in style and seated on the classic long table in the main dining hall.

Do note that if you want to use the Hotel as a wedding venue, then you are required to book out all the accommodation. In essence, for the duration of the wedding, you will have exclusive use of this fantastic hotel, ensuring an uninterrupted celebration!

Wedding Accommodation – Bridal & Grooms Preps

The accommodation is on another level, with suites individually decorated, each with its own theme. Most of the rooms open up onto spacious balconies that overlook the valley below. The hotel can sleep 42 in total; ample space for the main bridal party and more. Be warned that these luxury rooms come at a price though.

In total, the hotel consists of 11 luxury suites (double rooms) and then the 5 Vineyard Suites that can accommodate 4 guests each. Both bride and groom is spoiled for choice when it comes to preparation rooms. The luxury Suites are out of this world! Hands down the best bridal preparations location in the whole of the Western Cape!

Spa Treatments

By the time you get to the venue the day before the wedding, your stress levels might be running high. This is the perfect opportunity to indulge in the fantastic Spa Facilities at La Residence. Unwind, de-stress and get into a calm frame of mind for your big day.

The La Residence Franschhoek Hotel has two in-house therapists. Allow yourself to be pampered in the tranquil, air-conditioned double treatment room or in the privacy of your own balcony. Treatments include Body Therapy, Facial Treatments and Beauty Treatments.

Churches Nearby for the Wedding Ceremony

La Residence does not have a purpose-built chapel, but there are a host of outdoor ceremony settings to choose from. For a very intimate wedding of 10 or fewer people, the Tea Room next to the dam can be used and for bigger weddings the lawn in front of the main dining hall is perfect. This spot has amazing views, the perfect romantic setting to exchange vows.

Less than 5 minutes away in the town centre of Franschhoek is the Historic Dutch Reformed Church – a symbol of strength that fits in well with a classically themed wedding. We’ve listed a few other churches in the vicinity should it be a requirement:

St George’s Anglican Church – 15 mins away
St Nicholas Catholic Church – Stellenbosch

The Persian Alley with a fantastic view over the dam is a stunning spot for your guests to chill and relax while you are having your professional couple photos taken. The La Residence kitchen will dish up fantastic alfresco platters with a variety of cheeses, fruits, preserves and cold meats that can be enjoyed with some champers while you watch the sun setting.

If not used for the ceremony, the palm tree-lined lawn next to the infinity pool is another great location for the pre-drinks. Here you can set up lawn games like giant Jenga, french boule and croquet.

Wedding Photography Options

No need to drive to a separate location for your wedding photos. This venue has it all. The antique furniture, classic decor and art, together with the chequered flooring and crystal chandeliers is a setting fit for kings. There is so much to choose from! Photos can also be taken in the suites that are out of this world when it comes to decor and furnishings.

The entrance of La Residence with its fountains reminds me of a sophisticated chateau in rural France. The beautiful fountains and entrance walls covered with greenery makes a stunning backdrop. The manicured gardens, the plum orchards, the lavender fields, the dam with black swans, the Franschhoek mountains. There are a plethora of options when it comes to your all-important wedding photos!

Wedding Reception, Catering & Bar

La Residence restaurant’s dining area is reminiscent of a manor hall, resplendent with dazzling chandeliers, black and white flooring and vast fireplaces. It is in this magnificent setting that you can seat guests on one long table, banquet-style for a formal dinner and speeches. The dance floor can be accommodated under the roof

covered exit that leads unto the courtyard and lawn. Dance the night away while the evening breeze cools you down.

The wedding package has 3 menu options comprising of a variety of 3-course meals. All beverages are charged on consumption. The Bar closes at midnight and all other operations at 2am.