An idyllic hideaway on Doolhof Wine Estate.
After meandering along a narrow country road from Wellington through forest, vineyards and mountains, Doolhof Wine Estate comes as a delightful surprise. The valley opens out into an idyllic mountain oasis: horses grazing in paddocks, a trickling stream, vines basking in sunlight and towering mountains enclosing this secret spot at the foot of the Bainskloof Pass. Looking out over the valley, The Doolhof feels in a world of its own, the original Cape Dutch manor converted into a luxurious boutique country hotel, where rest, relaxation and romance are woven into the fabric.
The elegant manor house is home to just six suites and one thatched cottage (a suitably romantic honeymoon suite), and is ideal for those seeking a tranquil away-from-it-all escape. Dine on the verandah watching the glow of sunset reflect on the mountain tops, or in one of the beautiful private dining rooms, on imaginative cuisine prepared by the in-house chef.
A 15-metre swimming pool and terrace set the mood for relaxation. Welcome drinks, afternoon tea with a glass of bubbles, and breakfast are all included in the rate, so it’s easy to settle in and soak up the tranquillity, without ever leaving the embrace of this splendidly secluded valley.
The lodgings
- 6 one-bedroom suites (Hawequa, Limietberg, Groenberg, Lady Anne Barnard, Andrew Bain, and Jacques Potier), 3 in the loft and accessed by a spiral staircase
- each suite has a king-size bed (can be made into twins) and an ensuite bathroom with a rain shower and freestanding bathtub
- private atrium, lounge and dining area in select suites
- private view-facing patios
- two-storey Old Wine Cottage with an extra-length king-size bed, private veranda, open-plan lounge and two bathrooms (one with shower and one with a jet bath)
- minibar with complimentary water, soft drinks, beers and ciders
- tea- and coffee-making facilities
- air-conditioning
- underfloor heating in bathroom
- complimentary wifi
- shared dining room
- outdoor braai facilities
- library
- welcome bubbles on arrival
- breakfast, afternoon tea and 3-course dinner included in rates
While you’re there
The pool is the place to be on hot summer days, while fireplaces in the lounge and library offer a cosy sanctuary when the winter chill kicks in. There’s plenty to explore right on your doorstep: shaded river walks twist through the woodland along the Kromme River, and mountain trails explore the estate’s fynbos slopes and forest, ideal for hiking and mountain-biking (you can hire an e-bike too).
Wander over to the estate’s elegant tasting room where you can sample a selection of Doolhof wines, before enjoying lunch at the Mila Restaurant (a delightful restaurant in the adjoining courtyard and old wagon house).
On nearby estates you’ll find horse-riding, clay pigeon shooting, quad biking and golf among other activities. And, of course, Wellington’s wonderfully relaxed wine route is only a short and scenic drive away…
Distance from CT 1 hour
Child friendly? Yes, 12 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per suite; 2 in the cottage
Cost From R3 690 per room per night (includes breakfast, tea and dinner)
Where to find it Doolhof Wine Estate, Bovlei Road, Wellington, Western Cape
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