An Equestrian Haven Is for Sale in South Africa’s Franschhoek Valley

There are verandas and outdoor areas that take great advantage of the estate’s distinctive location and purpose. Courtesy of Val du Lac estate

The Val du Lac estate sits in a fertile valley protected by stunning mountains, and the pristine nature preserves of South Africa’s Western Cape region. This equestrian’s dream occupies over 24 hectares (60 acres) of the vineyard-lined Franschhoek Valley, just 40 minutes from the center of Cape Town.

The paneled library reveals the attention to detail and fine craftsmanship that went into this extraordinary home. No expense was spared in either the construction or furnishing of the home. Courtesy of Val du Lac estate

The estate features two expansive homes with a total of 12 bedrooms and 8 full baths, in addition to state-of-the-art equestrian stables. Listed for sale at $5,774,822, the property is one of the region’s finest equestrian farms. For the new owners, enjoying idyllic summer and winter activities in one of South Africa’s most coveted regions will be a huge added value. The estate is set up for breeding and rearing thoroughbreds, but it can easily be transformed into a riding center.

The bedroom suites of the main house each have their own bath and views out onto the majestic landscapes surrounding the estate. Courtesy of Val du Lac estate

Built in 2009, the 10,512-square-foot main house of the estate is an architectural marvel featuring five bedroom suites, a formal dining room, receiving and living rooms, a fine wood-paneled library, a wine cellar, and a three-car attached garage. There’s a separate small kitchen, laundry room, and a walk-in pantry as well. A second house serves as a guest residence, and several other staff residences are located on the property.

The main house retains hints of the traditional Dutch influences characteristic of this area, with modern accents and amenities. Courtesy of Val du Lac estate

Surrounding the central house are meticulously landscaped garden spaces designed for year-round functionality. The central feature of the property is, of course, the stunning equestrian facilities, which include a stable complex, a mare and foaling barn, a yearling barn, as well as a groom’s accommodations and a manager’s house. The property also features fully irrigated paddocks with pole fencing, an automated walker, an implements barn, a landscaped grotto, and a private lake. The stables also feature an office, a workshop, and a garage for four more vehicles.

In the entry foyer, we see beautiful parquet flooring crafted from the barns that stood on the property before its transformation. Courtesy of Val du Lac estate

The property is only a stone’s throw (just over a mile) from the popular town of Franschhoek, which is known as the “food and wine capital” of South Africa, and for good reason. The Franschhoek Valley is famous for its wine traditions that go back to the 1700s. The quaint town hosts world-renowned eateries such as chef Margot Janse’s The Tasting Room, which ranks as one of the world’s 50 best restaurants—not to mention abundant shopping experiences nearby, including chic boutiques and art galleries.

There are verandas and outdoor areas that take great advantage of the estate’s distinctive location and purpose. Courtesy of Val du Lac estate

Each of the rooms of the main house looks out onto the breathtaking valley and mountain landscapes of South Africa’s most famous wine region. Courtesy of Val du Lac estate

The property includes a tailored garden and a private lake. The forests and fields beyond exude country charm. Courtesy of Val du Lac estate

Another view of the property reveals an otherworldly beauty this valley is so famous for. Courtesy of Val du Lac estate

Intended as a breeding center for thoroughbred polo ponies, the estate was built on a transformed farm and vineyard. The property could easily be transformed into a riding academy or venue. Courtesy of Val du Lac estate

The use of wood parquet adds warm accents, while retaining something from the traditional farm that once stood here. Courtesy of Val du Lac estate

The main house’s kitchen. Courtesy of Val du Lac estate