WELLINGTON is closer than you think. When friends invited us to dinner there I thought I’d pack my passport and plan to stay the night.
I’m glad I did as Diemersfontein is a fabulous place to rest a weary head and I was loathed to leave.
Perhaps visits to Franschhoek, Paarl and Pringle Bay have made the idea of travelling an hour or so for somewhere wonderful to visit less arduous.
Either way, book yourself into Diemersfontein as it is not only affordable (from R415 for single accommodation) but also very elegant and charming.
We were invited to a wine tasting but opted to lie-in before heading to dinner.
The king-size bed and white linens are immediately inviting and looking up at the reed-strung ceiling gives the feeling of life in the country.
Wine tasting is complimentary for residential guests or R15 per person. It so happened we were served Diemersfontein’s Cab Sav 04 with dinner.
It has won a double gold at the Michelangelo awards and went down like liquid velvet with the slow roasted lamb.
At breakfast the next morning, while the horses loped up the hill from their stables and the Ibis and Francolins argued, we took in the majesty of Diemersfontein.
The views are spectacular and even from our high perch, the avenue of Blue Gums on the estate’s border tower above.
There is an elegant stylishness about Diemersfontein. Rather than the neatly coiffed look of a landscaper’s attention, the beautiful gardens seem tendered by someone with a genuine love for beautiful things.
One plant had such giant leaves that must have been prehistoric. From our garden suite number 13 we looked into verdant forest.
Even though I moaned about the distance of the walk past the pool and through the rose garden to the parking area, it was worth it.
The accommodation ought to be more costly. Perhaps one of the ways it is kept largely affordable is by asking guests to carry their own bags and not supplying robes or slippers in the bathroom.
The lack of TV set and mini-bar didn’t worry me but rather gently encouraged me onto the Lutyen’s bench on the patio.
The décor style and quality of the finishes is comparable to five-star properties.
If you’re after the uber luxury experience my tip is to bring your own robe and slippers and a burley friend to carry your luggage.
Individual coffee filters are also recommended if you prefer real rather than instant coffee in the room.
Although they supplied insect wipes, I’d bring my own mozzie machine as these farm-style mozzies are meaner than the city ones.
Breakfast, included in the accommodation price, is a highlight. The almond and date muffins were delicious and the Boland eggs Benedict, served with an aubergine rosti, outstanding.
On a return visit I’d like to stay in the Manor House (R995 per room) and hide away at Diemersfontein for a week.
www.diemersfontein.co.za
021-873-2671.