Indulge in an intimate stay at our pick of unique hotels with a boutique touch.
Le Pommier Wine Estate, Stellenbosch
Once the home of fields of blossoming apple trees, Le Pommier is the perfect place for a weekend away. French for ‘apple farm’, this boutique hotel has it all: Provençal interiors and splendid cuisine. Spread out on a four-poster bed in your own posh parlour, complete with a French-country dressing table, wicker couches and en-suite bathroom.
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Le Pommier’s day spa is on-site, so book yourself a day of pampering. Sample Le Pommier’s range of wines: winter calls for a goblet of rich Cabernet Sauvignon. The hotel is on the Helshoogte Pass – so visit an array of wine farms for top-notch tastings. The restaurant serves comforting Cape Cuisine with flair, such as roasted bone marrow in red wine sauce, Cape Malay curry and malva pudding.
COST From R1 050ppspn in a double suite, including breakfast. For more information, see lepommierwineestate.co.za.
The Windermere by Mantis, Port Elizabeth
The Windermere, a historic country home with a sweeping porch, is a charming weekend escape in Port Elizabeth. It’s at hotels like this that luxury meets warmth and hospitality. The earthy chic design is comforting and soothing. The suites are super-cosseting, with luxurious Percale linen. What could be more relaxing than mooching around the pool on a sunlounger? Well, perhaps sipping a sundowner in the hotel’s bar.
If you’re looking for something to do, PE’s golf courses, such as the Humewood Golf Course, are some of the best. Day tours to Addo Elephant National Park can also be arranged by the hotel.
COST From R1 971pn for two people sharing a double Standard Suite, including breakfast. For more information, see thewindermerebymantis.co.za.
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The Benjamin, Durban
Durban may be famed for its beaches, but the tree-lined streets of its suburbs offer an entirely different escape, with colonial homes and a laid-back atmosphere. The Benjamin is a city landmark, converted into a swish boutique hotel. Forty-one rooms are tastefully cottage-cool, air-conditioned and have en-suite bathrooms for ultimate privacy.
Escape Durban’s heat by diving into the secluded pool, then relaxing on the private patio. You’ll love soaking up the afternoon sun through the windows in the lounge. The hotel feels like a fabulous second home, where you can spend uninterrupted, quality time. Take your breakfasts in the sunny dining room, where you’ll be served a full continental spread.
COST From R950ppspn in a double room, including breakfast. For more information, see benjamin.co.za.
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The Concierge Boutique Bungalows, Durban
An art deco façade and quirky, fashionable suites set the scene for a unique stay on the coast, at The Concierge Boutique Bungalows. Think rich reds, chandeliers, and retro-bungalow style – it’s all about fun here! The cherry on top? The cute dachshund mascot print that paws its way through the hotel. Four separate bays host the 12 suites. The bungalows have it all: Wi-Fi, air con, and room service.
Take your coffee on the verandah, then spend mornings relaxing on the grounds. The seclusion of the hotel makes you feel as though you’re in a sanctuary. The hotel’s restaurant, Freedom Café, matches the eclectic design of the bungalows with a converted container and colourful bunting.
COST From R990pn for a two-sleeper room, including breakfast. For more information, see the-concierge.co.za.
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