Franschhoek has long been celebrated as one of South Africa’s premier wine destinations. Every year, visitors travel from around the world to experience its vineyards, award-winning wines and breathtaking scenery.
But just three kilometres outside the village, another craft is quietly earning its place on the Cape Winelands map.
Nestled on La Brasserie Farm alongside @Franschhoek Hotel, Hey Joe Brewing Co. is inviting visitors to discover Belgian-inspired craft beer brewed in a remarkable piece of brewing history—a 1961 copper brewhouse imported from Belgium, one of only three “De Halve Maan” brewhouses of its kind still in existence worldwide.
Open to the public for tastings, meals and private events, the brewery offers an experience that blends craftsmanship, hospitality and family-friendly entertainment in one destination.
A brewery where visitors can watch every brew
Unlike many breweries where the production process remains hidden behind closed doors, Hey Joe Brewing Co. places visitors right beside the brewing action.
Inside the taproom, copper brewing kettles and fermentation tanks are fully visible, allowing guests to enjoy their beer while watching the brewing process unfold.
The brewery is open daily from 11:00 to 22:00, offering a carefully curated range of Belgian-inspired craft beers.
The core collection includes:
- Session IPA, double dry-hopped with vibrant mango, citrus and guava notes.
- Blonde, an easy-drinking Belgian-style favourite.
- Lager, crisp, clean and subtly nutty.
Seasonal winter offerings feature:
- Pale Ale, with bready, caramel, honey and stone fruit flavours.
- Belgian Stout, a smooth, full-bodied beer with notes of oatmeal, dark chocolate, coffee and caramel.
During summer, visitors can also enjoy:
- Wit, a light Belgian wheat beer infused with coriander and orange peel.
- Belgian Cherry, a fruit beer matured with cherries, balancing sweetness with refreshing tartness.
Together, the range showcases seven distinctive beers crafted within one small valley.
A destination designed for the whole family
Hey Joe Brewing Co. is designed to welcome more than just beer enthusiasts.
Families will find a dedicated children’s play area complete with jungle gyms, allowing younger visitors to stay entertained while adults relax over lunch or a tasting board.
The restaurant serves breakfast for guests staying at @Franschhoek Hotel, while also welcoming day visitors with a menu featuring steaks, burgers and lighter seasonal dishes.
The venue also caters for private functions, making it suitable for celebrations, gatherings and special occasions.
Where the brewery becomes the event venue
The brewery’s working brewhouse creates a unique backdrop for events.
Exposed brickwork, polished copper, stainless steel equipment and stained-glass features combine to create an authentic industrial setting without the need for elaborate décor.
Indoor and outdoor spaces accommodate between 30 and 120 guests, making the venue popular for weddings, corporate events, product launches, year-end functions and even film productions.
A different experience in the Cape Winelands
According to Etienne Louw, Brewmaster at Hey Joe Brewing Co., the brewery offers visitors an experience that complements Franschhoek’s famous wine culture.
“People come to Franschhoek expecting wine, and they should, this valley does it brilliantly. But we’ve spent years building something different just down the road. Every beer we make is properly artisanal, brewed right here in a copper brewhouse you can stand next to and watch. Whether you’re a local popping in for the afternoon or staying next door at our hotel, it’s a proper day out, good beer, good food and somewhere the kids can run around while the adults take in the view.”
Turn a visit into a weekend escape
For visitors wanting to extend their stay, @Franschhoek Hotel sits alongside the brewery, offering elegant accommodation with vineyard and mountain views.
Part of The @ Collection, the boutique hotel features premium wellness facilities, an indoor aerobics pool and conferencing spaces suited to both leisure and business travellers.
Together, the hotel and brewery create a destination where food, craft beer, hospitality and the beauty of the Cape Winelands come together.
While Franschhoek’s reputation for exceptional wine remains firmly intact, Hey Joe Brewing Co. is proving that the valley also has another story to tell—one poured from a historic Belgian brewhouse that continues to craft memorable experiences, one glass at a time.
