The Explorers Club, Franschhoek

The Explorers Club is located in the best quarter, in the soul of Franschhoek, Wilhelmina Street. Lots of beautiful trees and a small vineyard creates a little sanctuary from the stresses of modern day existence and the hustle and bustle of the vibrant main street. It used to be the old station building for the railway, long since deceased.

Four bedrooms sleep up to six adults and four children, and although primarily designed as a self-catering residence, the Explorers Club is also used for cookery classes and as an intimate lecture venue where visiting speakers enthral guests with adventurous tales. It can also be rented for conference groups on special request.

Life at Explorers begins in the vast open-plan living, dining and kitchen area. It is where it all happens; the conviviality of the camp kitchen, gorging area, and place to relax and absorb the atmosphere and linger over the views onto the mountains and vineyards. There are also two sofa areas, one for the view and one for chatting and absorbing some romantic African tale on DVD. Twelve glass doors fold seamlessly outwards to create a unique indoor and outdoor space, allowing maximum views out over the mountains and the large deck and lap pool.

The fully-equipped, open-plan kitchen and island boasts three ovens and two hobs, one gas and one electric. Set out for the serious cooks who want to chill out at home, taking a break from the big hitting chefs at the local restaurants, the island has bar stools to sit around and seats six people comfortably. The long expansive dining table constructed around two old metal wagon-wheels seats 10 people and is next to the island, overlooking the pool and garden.

The indoor barbecue is next to the kitchen at the head of the table and can be used in the summer with the doors open, or cosily in the winter with the doors closed. At the other end of the room is an open fireplace. A wall-mounted flat screen TV with DStv, DVD and classic movie selection is perfect for unwinding after a long attack at the local vineyards, or a meal at one of Franschhoek's many restaurants.