Navarre Residence: A Historic Private Estate in Stellenbosch

Step across the threshold into a picture-perfect haven – a vision of rolling green lawns lined with towering trees, flower beds and walled rose gardens. There’s a sparkling dam at the edge of the garden, opening to magnificent Stellenbosch mountain views. Behind you stands a classic whitewashed, thatched and gabled Cape Dutch homestead, and beyond it rows of vines.

Navarre Residence is a 200-year-old private family home (available for guest stays at certain times of the year) that still has the original yellowwood ceiling beams, window shutters and thick walls. Filled with heirlooms, collectables, stories and personal touches, it’s deeply authentic and utterly charming – with a stunning garden that’s been a labour of love for generations.

A heartfelt home

The four bedrooms, light, bright and cheerful, are named after flowers, and each has its USP – the Rose Room opens onto the rose garden and a courtyard; the three rooms upstairs (one accessed via its own outdoor staircase) are under the eaves, including the spacious master suite with two seating areas. There’s also a two-bedroom garden cottage close to the vineyard, with its own kitchen and living area.

A farm-style gourmet kitchen is the heart of the manor house, and whatever is cooked up here can be served in the breakfast room, the formal dining room, in a courtyard under a canopy of vines – even out on the lawns where a table can be set up (sunset dinners have never been this enchanting). There’s also a braai area for relaxed meals under sunny or starry skies, and picnics next to the dam are pretty much compulsory.

There are other spaces for everyone to gather – in front of the fireplace in the sitting room or in the TV lounge for movie night, while during the day the beautiful pool area is sure to be a magnet. The garden is filled with sunny or shady nooks and benches, and there are plenty of opportunities for quiet strolls – early morning beside the dam as the mist lifts or through the vineyards in the late afternoon.

Prime position

The estate is at the foot of the Helderberg Mountains, with forest and fynbos trails close by for those who’d like to venture out into wilder nature. In the neighbourhood, you’ll find wine estates with wonderful dining options and art collections, as well as a world-famous sculpture garden. Stellenbosch, with its myriad attractions, is just 15km away.

This is a place for gentle reconnection and for slow living that feels celebratory. It delivers romance, moments, memories and space, making it an ideal choice for groups of friends, family holidays, retreats and special occasions.

The lodgings

• 4 Manor House bedrooms and 2 Garden Cottage bedrooms
• 5 ensuite bathrooms with freestanding bath and/or shower
• fully equipped kitchen with Nespresso machine
• breakfast room and formal dining room
• 2 lounges with fireplaces
• TV room with streaming services
• furnished verandah
• braai and entertainment area
• swimming pool
• kitchen, dining area and lounge in the Cottage

Things to do

• garden and vineyard walks
• dam for swimming and fishing
• picnics (catered on request)
• Helderberg hiking and mountain-biking trails close by
• wine estates nearby
• restaurants, shops and art galleries in nearby Stellenbosch

Good to know There is a minimum two-night stay. Daily housekeeping is included and a private chef is available by arrangement.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 12
Cost From R31 000 per night
From R33 500 per night (breakfast included)
Where to find it Cordoba Road, off R44, Stellenbosch
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

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