LOCATION
Set amid vineyards and gardens at the entrance to the gorgeous Jonkershoek Valley, this historic wine estate makes a fine base for exploring the leafy university town of Stellenbosch and the surrounding winelands.
A LITTLE HISTORY
In May 2017 a fire devastated the public areas of the Lanzerac Hotel, gutting the restaurants and lounges. The hotel was closed and a rebuilding process swung quickly into action, but heritage approvals and paperwork meant rebuilding only kicked off in February 2018. Remarkably, after an extensive revamp, the hotel reopened for business on July 1.
WHAT'S NEW
The fire was an opportunity to re-imagine the hotel's public areas, with a dramatic new lobby and lounge for greeting guests. The much-loved Taphuis Bar and Craven Lounge (for smokers) have been redone, while a new fine-dining restaurant is in the pipeline. A grand addition is the new 140-seater Manor Kitchen restaurant, set in a striking glass-walled atrium.
AND THE FOOD?
Executive Chef Stephen Fraser ticks all the boxes across the estate's four restaurants. The Deli offers generous platters to go with a wine tasting, while the Taphuis is popular for gourmet pub fare. Tapas-style dining is the theme in the posh Craven Lounge, while the Manor Kitchen offers an impressive menu of upscale country cuisine.
ROOMS
The hotel's 53 rooms are clustered around the historic manor house, so it still feels like an intimate winelands estate. Almost all rooms enjoy private patios, but the spacious suites, some with private pools, are superb if you're looking to splurge.
WHEN TO VISIT
There's a charm to each season, from wintry fires to summer evenings on the terrace. Rates take a jump during peak season.
ACTIVITIES
All guests enjoy free access to the hydro-facilities at the on-site Lanzerac Spa, while wine-tasting and cellar tours (daily at 11am) are a must. Off the estate, Stellenbosch is an easy walk (or take the free shuttle) while the hiking and MTB trails of Jonkershoek are a 10-minute drive away.
RATES
From R2,275 per person sharing per night, until September 30. Rates include breakfast, use of the spa facilities, wine tasting, cellar tour and complimentary shuttle to Stellenbosch.
BOOKING
Visit lanzerac.co.za.
• Holmes was a guest of the Lanzerac Hotel
