FAQs

Good to know before you arrive

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people does the house sleep?

Thatch & Vine House sleeps up to 8 guests in four en-suite bedrooms: the Garden Suite, the Rose Suite and the Vine Suite each have a queen bed, and the upstairs Loft Suite has two double beds. There are 4.5 bathrooms in total.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and check-out is before 10:00 AM. Your host will greet you on arrival. Luggage drop-off can be arranged if you arrive early or leave late.

How far is the house from the village?

The house is on a quiet, tree-lined avenue just a short stroll from Huguenot Road, with its cafés, wine bars, restaurants and shops, and from the Franschhoek Wine Tram terminal. The Mill House Bakery at La Cotte is about a five-minute walk.

How do we get there, and do we need a car?

The drive from Cape Town takes about 1 hour 15 minutes through scenic mountain passes and vineyards. Franschhoek itself is very walkable, and for estates further out the Wine Tram, Uber and local taxis are readily available.

Is there parking?

Yes. There is free, secure parking on the property behind the gate, with a gate from the carport into the garden and terrace.

Is the pool heated?

No. The pool is not heated, but it’s perfect for a refreshing dip in the warmer months. Sun loungers are provided, and there is a leaf skimmer if you need it.

Is there air conditioning?

Each bedroom has its own mini-split air conditioning and heating unit, plus fans. The open-plan kitchen, dining and living area has no air conditioning. The lofted thatched ceiling keeps it naturally cooler, a ceiling fan provides extra airflow, and in winter a new wood-burning stove keeps it warm.

Is there Wi-Fi and a TV?

Yes. The house has high-speed Wi-Fi and a 55″ Samsung Frame TV with streaming apps including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ and Apple TV. When it’s off, it displays curated artwork, and you are welcome to choose your own.

Is the kitchen fully equipped?

Yes. There is a gas stove and oven, fridge-freezer, dishwasher, microwave, kettle, toaster, blender, drip coffee maker and French press, plus cookware, dishes, wine glasses and cooking basics. Coffee is provided.

What is provided in the bathrooms and bedrooms?

Towels, Egyptian cotton linens, extra pillows and blankets, room-darkening shades, hair dryers, and shampoo, conditioner and body wash dispensers. There is also a washer, dryer, iron and drying rack.

Is the house good for families?

Yes. A travel cot, board games and books are available, and a high chair can be provided on request. Babysitting can be arranged at an additional cost. Please note the unheated pool, and supervise children at all times.

Can we arrange housekeeping or laundry?

Yes. A housekeeper, babysitting and a professional laundry service are each available at an additional cost. Please let us know when you book.

Will anyone else be on the property?

The home and garden are yours during your stay. A gardener tends the garden twice a week and works quietly, and the pool is maintained once a week. There are no exterior security cameras on the property.

Are pets, smoking or events allowed?

Out of respect for our home and neighbours, we don’t allow pets, smoking, parties, events, loud music or additional guests. Quiet hours are 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM.

Is the house accessible?

Guests can enter from the garden directly onto the main level without stairs. The main level has two bedrooms and the living areas. The front entrance has four steps up to the door, and the other two bedrooms are on separate levels.

Anything else we should know about an older thatched home?

As a traditional thatched Cape house, you may occasionally notice a little fine dust after strong winds or very dry weather. This is completely natural for an authentic thatch roof. The house also keeps its original wooden doors; we love their character, though some don’t close quite as snugly as new ones.

Can we visit La Cotte Farm from the house?

La Cotte can’t be reached directly from the property for security reasons. It’s a quaint, short walk around to the main La Cotte security gates.

What if something gets broken?

Accidents happen. Please let us know promptly. Any damage, breakage or missing items may be charged at the cost of repair or replacement.

How do we book?

All stays are booked through Airbnb, where you can check live availability and rates and message us directly. Explore your stay on Airbnb.

Still curious? Message us on Airbnb.