Schoone Oordt Country House

Country Retreat, Route 62

About

Equidistant between Cape Town and the Garden Route towns of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, this small homestead makes for a heavenly stopover – or “beautiful haven” if you translate the name directly.  Boasting a pool, it’s found in quiet Swellendam, the country’s third-oldest settlement, and dates back to 1853 with an appropriately Victorian facade.  But a recent refurbishment means it’s as smart as the clipped lawns all around.

Accommodation

The hotel’s ten rooms are found among the lush rose gardens, including a separate Honeymoon Suite and Family Cottage.  Two standard rooms offer air-conditioning, underfloor heating in the bathroom, clawfoot bathtubs and a shared veranda, while six Luxury Rooms promise private patios and fireplaces.  That Family cottage includes a loft area for children, while the secluded Honeymoon suite has a carved four-poster bed.  Each chamber delivers a period feel via restored antiques and wooden floors.

Facilities

The manor house’s Conservatory Restaurant is an open-air space where you can enjoy superior breakfasts, complimentary afternoon teas and South African voorsmakie (a la carte) for dinner.  Pan-seared kudu and sweetcorn-and-ginger velouté are often available, along with wines that are sourced from nearby Robertson Valley.  There’s also a fire-heated bar, chill-out lounge and convivial kitchen.  Wi-fi is available in the main house only.  Outside is a large saltwater pool lined with loungers, and then those gardens, fountains and oak trees.

Activities

The homestead’s reception desk can arrange local Swellendam activities, from golf at a nine-hole course above Hermitage Valley to spa sessions.  The hotel sits at the foot of the majestic Langeberg Mountains, so hiking is also readily available, along with birdwatching, horse-riding and even quad-biking.  Further afield are the Robertson Valley Wine Route and whale-watching at Hermanus.

Child Policy

Children of all ages are welcome.  Cots can be provided, along with babysitting at a surcharge. 

 

 

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