La Motte Wine Estate unscathed after weekend fires

A fire continues to burn in the La Motte area in Franschhoek, with two active fire lines reported on Monday morning, according to the Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM) Fire Services.

In the latest update, CWDM said six firefighting vehicles and their crews, supported by a ground team from CapeNature, worked throughout the night to contain the blaze. Cooler evening temperatures aided firefighting efforts.

"There has been no damage to or loss of property, and no injuries have been reported.  Fresh teams will be deployed this morning to continue firefighting operations," the statement said.  

The fire started on Saturday and has threatened multiple structures, however, La Motte Wine Estate escaped any damage and remained open for business over the weekend. 

The estate includes a tasting room, artisanal bakery, art gallery space Ateljee, as well as the seasonal dining experience JAN Franschhoek hosted from the historic Veepos cottage.

"Thank you so much for everyone’s concern and all the messages we received. Although we had some fires high in the Wemmershoek mountain on the estate, yesterday’s fire was predominantly in the bigger La Motte area and not with us on the estate. We are therefore very grateful to say that we are open for business as usual," La Motte Wine said.    

Conditions continue to be monitored, and motorists in the region are advised to drive carefully, follow traffic officials' instructions, and give way to firefighting vehicles.