THE STORY OF
LA ROCHE ESTATE
Established with passion in 1988.
When the property was bought over a quarter of a century ago, it was a poorly run farm with a few acres of grapes, 2 small lakes, an orchard and a swamp.
Today, the estate operates as both a working farm and an exclusive Franschhoek Valley destination for weddings, events, luxury accommodation and premium picnic experiences. With panoramic views of beautifully manicured gardens and vineyards, framed by majestic mountains, our estate boasts the best of what the event industry has to offer.
La Roche Estate was officially established in 1988 by the late David Jenkins, and with every passing year, we passionately endeavor to grow every part of the estate according to David’s unique vision.
A WORKING FARM
When the farm was bought in 1988, the first job was to drain the swamp and increase the quantity and quality of the land under grapes.
As in the distant past, the Berg River ran through the property and an underground river still runs through the Robertsvlei valley, many people said this was impossible.
With typical aplomb, we refused to listen to the naysayers, and dug a huge drainage ditch through the lowest part of the land, which drains into the lower lake. Water always takes the easiest route, and after just a few years, the idea proved to work amazingly well. Today, La Roche Estate has 40 hectares of grapes under cultivation.
La Roche not only grows grapes of a superior quality that have contributed to many fine wines over the years, but its vines are an exercise in aesthetic beauty and closely managed all year round.
A PLACE OF PASSION
Welcome to our piece of paradise. La Roche is a place of passion.
Passion for beauty, passion for excellence, passion for the environment and passion for a place that will continue to give pleasure through the ages.
Our founder always endeavored to leave things better than he found them and worked hard to make whatever he achieved last.
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The monumental buildings and more than 5000 trees planted on the Estate, some of which will only reach maturity in another 200 years, are a testament to what makes La Roche a special place to share and enjoy together.
THINGS TO DO
Being located in the Franschhoek Wine Valley, the list of ‘things to do’ is literally endless!
Our guests often remark on how La Roche feels so secluded, but it is in fact just a five minute drive from the bustling village.
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Some Franschhoek Valley highlights right on our doorstep:
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Hiking trails and tours
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Horse-riding experiences
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Mountain-biking
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Village, garden and art tours
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Scooter Tours
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The Franschhoek Wine Tram
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Dining experiences at some of SA’s best restaurants
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Wine estate tastings and pairings
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Workshops
THE ROCK ('LA ROCHE')
The estate proudly takes its name from the huge rock near our entrance, in the centre of the valley, which was left by the last glacial age. (“Die Klip” translated well to “La Roche”).
