De Kloof Luxury Estate^{(5 stars)}

Built in 1801, this boutique hotel is the hidden jewel of Swellendam, where history meets contemporary trends. For lovers of interior design, honeymooners, golfers and people who enjoy the finer things in life, it offers the ideal retreat of choice. With its secure parking, wonderful and breath-taking mountain views, lovely gardens and birdlife it really is a little piece of paradise. The hotel is air-conditioned and comprises a lobby with a hotel safe, cloakroom and newspaper stand. Younger guests can have fun in the children’s playground, whilst older visitors may enjoy a drink at the hotel bar. Fine food is served at the restaurant and conference facilities are provided. Guests can stay connected thanks to the wireless Internet access available at the hotel. Room and laundry services are also provided, and there is a garage where guests can leave their vehicles. A bicycle hire service is provided for those looking to explore the surrounding area on two wheels.

The spacious suites come with Zen-style large en suite bathrooms featuring rain showers, a hot tub and hairdryer. Other amenities include in-room free wireless Internet access, a bar, safe, extra length double or king-size beds, a pillow menu, mood lighting control, non-allergic linen and individually regulated air conditioning. Heaters are also provided, as are bathrobes, slippers, a flat-screen satellite TV, alarm clock, iPod, hifi and radio. A telephone also comes in all rooms, as does a kitchen with minibar, fridge and tea and coffee making facilities. Guests can also make use of their accommodation’s ironing set and washing machine, and can relax on the terrace. Some suites come with fireplaces and waterbeds, and honeymoon and family suites are also available.

The hotel offers various recreational facilities free of charge to their guests including a golf facility with driving range, minigolf and putting green, a large outdoor saltwater swimming pool with breathtaking mountain views and poolside snack bar, a gym, mountain bikes, aqua fit and aerobics. Sun loungers and parasols are provided and there is a sun terrace for those looking to soak up the rays. Horse riding is also available and guests can also relax in the hot tub. For an additional fee guests can enjoy massage and spa treatments in the treatment room, such as pedicures, manicures and facials.

Continental breakfast à la carte is served in the morning, whilst set menu, organic (fresh from the garden) and à la carte options are available for lunch, and dinner can be taken à la carte or from a set menu. Wine tastings are offered daily free of charge. The hotel also offers teas and picnics. Weddings and receptions can also be specially catered for.

All major credit cards are accepted.

Coming from the N2 highway (Capetown/Knysna): On the N2 take the exit Swellendam East. Follow the main road for approximately 1 km (over the Koornlands River the road makes a left turn but keep going straight). Pass the big Dutch white reformed Church on the right-hand side and then start to slow down. At the Checkers supermarket sign (left-hand side) turn right uphill towards the mountains into Von Manger Street and follow the signs, the hotel’s address is Weltevrede Street 8.