One night feels like a holiday

Published Jan 10, 2015

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My own snoring – or was it Bruce’s? – woke me up. I was on my back on the wooden deck of the naturally filtered eco-pool, while Bruce was ensconced on a well-cushioned lounger at Angala Boutique Hotel and Guest House.

You’ll find it off the R45, between the N1 from Cape Town and Franschhoek.

Angala is a sublimely relaxing place, infused with a certain something. From the moment we arrived we could feel it.

We received a warm welcome from manageress Ann Morley and the weather – 30ºC yet there was snow on top the Klein Drakenstein mountains. Past the giant wooden heart, through the stylish main building and to our luxury suite we went. Although we had intended scooting off we got comfy out front, looking over the dam and Vrede en Lust’s vines toward the mountains. Bruce availed himself of the first of many pods from the extensive Nespresso range. I helped myself to something icy from the complimentary mini bar and we strolled and lolled about as evening set in, when our thoughts turned to dinner.

Ann advised us beforehand that the restaurant was closed that night, so we had stopped for some gap-fillers but the cold platter we received was huge and delicious.

A quiet night in got us acquainted with our charming suite. All the mod cons (with wi-fi) were in the elegantly revamped old building. A modern fireplace, couch and coffee table, table and chairs and superbly comfy beds were in one half. The other half – the ablutions – stole the show. Beautifully tiled and glassed with heated floors and towel rails, the airy wetroom had an indoor shower and free-standing tub that led to a huge outdoor shower area with a tree growing through the deck.

We had a lovely breakfast and headed out with maps and recommendations. Complimentary wine tasting at Vrede en Lust is included for Angala guests. I was after sampling in their stylish setting. The Jess dry rosé, the 2012 Viognier and 2012 Barrique got my vote.

The Lust Bistro & Bakery is a great place for an artisanal lunch. So is The Spice Route, next door to Fairview Estate. High up on a hillside we enjoyed CBC craft beer and a great atmosphere with fine pizza at La Grapperia.

Babylonstoren is a must visit for their wines, great shop, restaurant and the wonderful gardens. Franschhoek valley has so many wine estates with added attractions and, if you have an interest in classic tar burners, then the Franschhoek Motor Museum at L’Ormarins is the place.

We headed up the hills behind Angala instead, amid the forests and wild flowers in the lee of the Simonsberg mountains. Bruce returned to Cape Town, leaving me to dine in the company of a slightly lost American.

We enjoyed a fabulous set menu, including the best ostrich I’ve had, and fantastic flourless brownies with home-made chocolate ice cream.

I learned of the great lengths Ann and Rob quietly went to in arranging an itinerary for the American. That’s how they roll. It’s understated, no fuss, no problem at Angala.

Bruce put it best when he said just one night had been a holiday.

Call 021 874 1366 or visit www.angala.co.za

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