A night at Lanzerac Wine Estate

A stone's throw from Cape Town centre tucked away in what seems to be the suburbs of Stellenbosch is a historic landmark that has risen from the ashes, quite literally. Lanzerac Wine estate is not just your average wine estate but rather a piece of history with a classic feel that is timeless. With a history dating back to 1692, this grande dame is synonymous with old-world charm and rich Cape heritage.

The estate is situated just an hours drive from Cape Town CBD and is worth booking a weekend for, if not longer.

Upon arrival you are greeted with the most beautiful shady driveway that is towered by tall oak trees, I always wonder the stories they could tell!

The estate is the third oldest in Stellenbosch and although the property has over 300 years behind its name the newly renovated hotel is the most recent addition. The property was closed down and a breath of classic fresh air was breathed in after a horrendous fire in 2017. The grounds are perfectly manicured and the interior of the hotel echoes this. Every little aspect was not only thought out but is utterly beautiful.

Each room is unique and has a different feel to it. Classic interior tied together with old farm charm is the feeling in the rooms. With large king sized beds and different room options available. The bathrooms have large walk-in showers and bathtubs. The bedrooms are fitted with a TV and minibar so staying in and getting comfy is at your fingers tips!

The estate offers several options to wine and dine your needs. My personal favourite being the Deli where you can experience a wine and chocolate pairing along with one of the best cheese platters I’ve had to date. With freshly baked loaves of bread and cakes lingering in the air, I am sure you will find your way there. The manor kitchen was also another favourite with many glasses of the perfect Chenin Blanc, a personal best of the estates. The food is classic and fresh using seasonal produce grown locally. Whats not to love?

The estate is home to a spa which is an activity I very gladly took up. With a full body massage leaving me in a relaxation coma I decided to lounge by the pool for the rest of the day. You can of course head out into Stellenbosch to explore or arrange a wine tour at reception. There is something for everyone and all you have to do is ask. The staff are attentive and friendly and always ready to share a little history or attend to any of your needs.

This five-star establishment captured my heart. Whether it is for a weekend getaway or a wedding, the estate has all bases covered. It's wonderful to see such a classic piece of history honoured with such integrity and standing proudly in the small town of Stellenbosch.

-Melissa

A weekend of luxury at The Marine, Hermanus

Situated on the cliff edge overlooking the glorious Atlantic ocean, The Marine is one of the most spectacular luxury hotels I have ever stayed at. Part of the Mcgrath Collection this establishment overlooks Walker Bay and is the ultimate Whale watching location in Hermanus. I can now safely say first hand that The Collection holds three world-class hotels. 

Hermanus is an old fisherman's village which has become one of the most popular whale watching towns in the Western Cape.  A two-hour drive from Cape Town, The Marine is a getaway that will offer you all that you need. 

With uninterrupted sea views, the hotel boasts many sea facing rooms - which is a must if you are visiting!
The hotel dates back to 1902 and is steeped in history which can be found around every corner. Once placed in Liz McGrath's hands the grand lady was refurbished and brought into the 21st Century while honouring the hotel's unique heritage in 1998. 

The rooms are the ultimate luxury with calming colours and crisp white sheets. We stayed in the Princess suite that left me utterly speechless. A double volume room with a walk-in closet and lounge area that overlooks the ocean. The attention to detail comes right down to the coffee machine and handwritten welcome note. To be honest it is the first room I have stayed in where I didn't even want to go down for dinner but rather have room service instead. 

Speaking of room service; let’s talk about the food - which, granted, can be challenging with a mouth full of delicious starters or mains or dessert. Once a feast has kicked off, it is difficult to stop. I have had the privilege of visiting all three hotels that comprise the Liz Mcgrath Collection and I can easily say (excluding The Green House which is in a league of its own) that Origins at The Marine is my favourite. The food is just simply YUM. Bistro style and nothing complicated - Simple, beautiful cuisine. The flavours are perfect and each meal left me wanting more! There is something to be said for simple food done really well. It's my second time visiting and I will return again regardless of where I stay in Hermanus. If you are doing the same - be sure to book and try the bouillabaisse and the apple tart for dessert. 

With an on-site Spa, you might find it hard to leave the hotel. Don't worry, there is no judgement here because the same might or might not have happened to me. Book in advance and get your relaxation in with a full body massage or why not take some time out to detox in the steam room. No matter which treatment you choose you are sure to feel pampered and spoiled. 

Whether you find yourself in town over whale season or not,  be sure to  take a walk down the cliff path and get lost in the beauty that is Hermanus and its ocean views. You will find dassies bouncing around that will certainlyput a smile on your face! 

Staying at Holden Manz wine estate

Just over an hours drive out of Cape Town tucked away at the foot of the Franschhoek mountains you will find the peaceful and beautiful Holden Manz. A small estate with vineyards that surround you. The estate might be small but you won't run out of activities and you are sure to leave relaxed and longing for more. 

The guest house is eclectic and decorated with an impressive art collection that you could get totally lost in. I have yet to see such an extensive variety in a personal collection. With many local artists, I found myself with wine in hand meandering from one piece to the next. 

The rooms are spacious and have an old charm to them. With king size beds and fluffy duvets getting up in the morning wasn't particularly easy! I could have slept in for days. The bathrooms are spacious with double basins and of course a huge tempting bath that I couldn't enjoy with the drought! 

With a perfect nights sleep in the bag, you could make your way to the spa and get engulfed in the ultimate luxury. The spa offers all treatments and prides themselves on supporting amazing natural local brands. I tried out the full body massage as I always do and it was so much of yes! Be sure to book if you visit!  

Post bliss visit the restaurant where the art takes shape in the gorgeous plates from the kitchen. Each plate has been well thought out and the food is almost too pretty to eat! Almost. If you find yourself there then the duck didn't disappoint and neither did their wines. My favourite? The Chenin Blanc of course! 

After lunch, I made my way down to the river and enjoyed a walk around the estate. With towering trees and surrounding mountains, you can't help but exhale. Which is never a bad thing. Breathing in the fresh country air can only be food for the soul! 

The staff are always on hand with a friendly smile and will attend to any of your needs. If you feel like exploring, the main town of Franschhoek is five minutes away. Strolling through the village is always fun if you want to venture out. Be sure to try the beer and wine tasting as well as any of the amazing restaurants. If not you will always have a home away from home at Holden Manz. 

-Melissa