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A break from every day life is always welcome, right? But sometimes the idea of packing up and driving a long distance or even flying is enough to just keep you tucked away at home. Especially in winter.
What if I told you that you could have the very escape you’re longing for without having to trek for hours on end to get there? Where is the magical place, I hear you ask. Well if you’re lucky enough to be a Cape Town resident this place is Cellars-Hohenort. I left the CBD and within 20 minutes I had reached my destination (your travel time will be slightly longer if you hit traffic on the way).
Cellars-Hohenort, nestled inside the leafy, affluent suburb of Constantia, combines old world charm with all the modern amenities you need to make your stay a pleasant and serene one.
I recently spent a night there and got to see just how perfect a place it is as a nearby escape from the hustle and bustle of real life.
So what exactly do you do on a night away? Let me take you on my journey.
I checked into my plush hotel suite. YES, a whole suite just for me.
Not long after putting my bags away, I dashed off to the hotel’s spa. Yes, they have a spa called Fresh Wellness Spa and it’s heavenly. I chose to have a back, neck and shoulder massage and it was easily the best half an hour I spent in April 2016.
After being thoroughly unwound and relaxed I headed back to my suite for a shower only to discover the shower head had a massage function. Seriously, how much more relaxed could I get? I felt so spoiled and the afternoon had only just begun.
There was only one thing for me to do after my massage and shower (with bonus massage): Relax! And that’s that I did. I spent a good while just lounging on the plush bed. I read, I watched tv and then I got ready for the dinner we bloggers were invited to by our hosts.
But before dinner I had some time for a walk in the gardens. This is something you must do when you find yourself at Cellars-Hohenort – a definite highlight. This garden is magical. For a while I felt a bit like Gretel, without Hansel and the evil witch of course. I wandered the gardens, totally at one with nature.
The half an hour walk was the perfect way to end an afternoon and work up an appetite before sitting down at The Conservatory to taste the delectable offerings on the winter menu.
So let’s talk food – my favourite topic. From The Conservatory’s winter menu I chose for my starter: Sugar cured salmon trout, roasted baby needs, radishes, horseradish cream. It was great start the meal and a sure way to get my taste buds wanting more.
For the main course I chose: Pan-fried line fish (Cape salmon), Asian pesto, roasted courgettes, cauliflower puree, crispy potatoes. Delicious and easy on the palate. The only thing I wanted more of was the cauliflower puree and that’s just because I love the stuff.
For dessert: Baked Camembert, Adam’s figs, thyme-infused honey. I know you might be thinking “cheese for dessert?” But this was perfect because I’m a cheese lover and I don’t have the biggest sweet tooth. The thyme infused honey provided more than enough sweetness to the warm and ooze Camembert coming out of the pastry.
There was yet more food to be had at breakfast the next morning after having a wonderful sleep in that big bed. There is a bit of everything on the breakfast buffet: Fruits, cereals, yogurts, pastries like croissants and danishes, a variety of breads and a selection of jams and cheeses. I ordered from the hot menu and had delectable scrambled eggs with smoked salmon.
After an indulgent breakfast, another walk in the garden was called for. It was a crisp, cool morning and breathing in the clean air made me want to stay a little longer before heading back to real life.
Final verdict: I’ll be back, Cellars-Hohenort. I’ll be back.
- Disclaimer: I was hosted by The Collection by Liz McGrath and included accommodation and meals. For more information, visit the hotel’s website or find them on Facebook and Twitter.
Reading this and seeing the pics of the hotel room made me want to go on a holiday.
Going on a mini break in the same city you live is so awesome. All of the fun with none of the long journey time. Do it!