Overview

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Franschhoek Valley, La Motte is one of South Africa’s most historic and refined wine destinations, renowned for its award-winning wines, Cape heritage, exceptional cuisine, art and warm hospitality.

Established in the late 17th century, the estate is surrounded by vineyards, majestic mountains and beautifully preserved Cape Dutch buildings. Visitors can enjoy premium tastings, seasonal dining, artisan shopping and cultural experiences while discovering the rich history that shaped La Motte into one of Franschhoek’s most beloved estates.

History

La Motte’s history dates back to 1695. The farm was originally granted to German settler Hans Hendrik Hattingh before being purchased in 1709 by French Huguenot Pierre Joubert, who named it after his hometown of La Motte d’Aigues in Provence. Over the centuries it became one of the Cape’s most respected wine producers.

Viticulture at La Motte began in 1752 when owner Gabriël du Toit planted the estate’s first vineyards, and La Motte grew steadily into one of the valley’s enduring wine names. Its heritage core includes four restored Cape Dutch provincial monuments — the Manor House, Jonkershuis, Historic Cellar and Water Mill — alongside a historic working water mill and a restored 18th-century cemetery once reserved for Franschhoek residents.

Following its acquisition by Dr Anton Rupert in 1970, La Motte underwent an extensive restoration and conservation programme that transformed the historic estate into one of South Africa’s leading wine destinations. Historic buildings were carefully restored, vineyards progressively replanted with noble varieties and a modern cellar introduced, all while preserving the estate’s rich Cape heritage. Today La Motte continues under the ownership of Hanneli Rupert, combining centuries of history with world-class winemaking, hospitality and the arts.

Art & Culture

Art has long been part of the La Motte identity. The estate celebrates South African creativity through the Ateljee, a contemporary space showcasing rotating art exhibitions, workshops and handcrafted works by local artists and makers. This cultural focus reflects the Rupert family’s long-standing commitment to preserving and promoting South African art.

Dining & Experiences

Beyond wine tasting, La Motte offers a full-day Cape Winelands experience. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings of the estate’s award-winning wines, dine at the L’Ami Family Brasserie or the acclaimed JAN Franschhoek, browse the Farm Shop’s gifts and lifestyle items, visit the Artisanal Bakery and Garden Café, explore the estate’s guided and self-guided hiking trail, and take in seasonal art exhibitions and events throughout the year.