Schoone Oordt, South Africa Hotel

South Africa

At the foot of the Langeberg Mountains, the fourth oldest town in South Africa, Swellendham in the Western Cape (220km or so from Cape Town) wears its Dutch heritage proudly. Quaint doesn’t do it justice, as its close to 280-year history fills the tree-lined streets, and buildings such as Schoone Oordt, a beautiful manor house with just 11 luxury rooms, is the best place to experience it all. Set amid pristinely kept gardens with mood-setting fountains and a saltwater pool, every room is decked out with antique furniture in keeping with the heritage vibe.

Just outside lie the wonders of Bontebok National Park – home to a good 126 different species of bird, as well as the rare antelope from which it takes its name – and Marloth Nature Reserve. Beyond that, of course, you’re at the start of the Garden Route, from which countless adventures begin.

Doubles from £175.

Words by Alex Mead.

This review was taken from the April 2024 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.