Mont Rochelle Spring

## Overview Mont Rochelle Spring is a natural public drinking spring located in the Franschhoek area of the Western Cape, South Africa. Nestled along Lambrechts Road in the shadow of the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve, this roadside spout delivers crystal-clear water that locals report they have been drinking for many years. The water is remarkably clear and visitors frequently describe it as delicious — a refreshing stop in one of South Africa's most celebrated wine-producing valleys. The spring sits within the greater Franschhoek region, a town founded by French Huguenot settlers in the late 17th century and renowned worldwide for its vineyards and Cape Dutch architecture. The surrounding mountains, part of the Drakenstein range, are rich in Table Mountain Sandstone — a geological formation known for naturally filtering rainwater through layers of quartzitic rock, which may contribute to the exceptional clarity and taste of the spring water. The Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve, which rises above the town, protects large swaths of indigenous fynbos vegetation and feeds several natural water sources in the area. Located roughly an hour's drive from Cape Town, Mont Rochelle Spring makes for a worthwhile stop while exploring the Franschhoek wine route or hiking in the surrounding mountains. ## Directions 1. From Franschhoek village, head south along the main road toward Franschhoek Pass. 2. Turn onto **Lambrechts Road** (look for local signage or use GPS coordinates **-33.902035, 19.156071** for precise navigation). 3. The spring spout is located along Lambrechts Road at the roadside — keep an eye out for a visible spout or pipe where water flows freely. 4. Parking is informal; pull off to the side of the road near the spout. *Tip: The spring is easy to miss if you're driving quickly, so slow down once you're on Lambrechts Road and watch for the water outlet.* ## What to Expect The spring emerges from a spout right along the roadside, making it very easy to access — no hiking required. The water flows clear and steady, and locals have long reported using it as a regular drinking water source. Many visitors stop to fill bottles after a day of wine tasting in the Franschhoek valley. The surrounding landscape is quintessential Western Cape: dramatic mountain slopes covered in fynbos, with vineyards stretching across the valley floor below. The area is beautiful year-round, though the winter months (June–August) bring more rainfall and the mountains are often draped in cloud. Summer (December–February) offers warm, dry conditions ideal for combining a spring visit with wine farm tours and mountain hikes. There are no formal facilities at the spring — no restrooms, signage, or seating — so plan accordingly. The town of Franschhoek, with its world-class restaurants, galleries, and tasting rooms, is just a short drive away.