It was the last weekend in April and we found ourselves in the historic and charming winelands town of Stellenbosch. The SA Cheese Festival was happening that same weekend, and while many people were making their way to this annual celebration of all things cheese, we were staying in “Stellies” for a different reason.
Unless we are in a remote location where there isn’t much to see and do, we usually end up spending our time away tearing from one place to the next to take in as many sights as possible. And while we enjoy doing this now and then, it doesn’t leave us with much time to relax and recharge, breathe and just be. I think you get where I’m going with this.
Hubby claims that I like to live a champagne lifestyle. And he is right; I do so enjoy the finer things in life. So I was thrilled beyond words when I was told that I had won a two night stay at a five-star uber-glam hotel! Thank you Facebook 🙂
When I mentioned to hubby that I wanted to take it easy and not do too much sightseeing, I know he was only too happy with that suggestion. Without our kid for two nights, it was the perfect opportunity to slow down and not rush around trying to fit it all in.
107 Dorpstraat Boutique Hotel
Checking in at the luxuriously chic and stylish 107 Dorpstraat Boutique Hotel was a breeze. You know you are off to a fabulous start when the check-in process goes smoothly and you are greeted with warm smiles and a glass or two of bubbly – yes please!
Secure on site parking is available, but be warned – it’s a bit of a squeeze especially if you drive a car the size of a tank. Being down-to-earth people with no airs and graces, taking our luggage to the room wasn’t a big deal. But I’m not sure all guests will feel the same way.
Herschelle showed us to our beautifully appointed room, aptly named Wine (how did they know?). Each of the eight uniquely decorated luxury double en-suite rooms tells the story of Stellenbosch and offers a small piece of insight into the history and culture of the town. Not only does this give the hotel its boutique feel, but it celebrates the rich and colourful heritage of the second oldest town in the country.
While our room wasn’t very big, it offered all the modern conveniences one might need. From the luxury queen bed with high thread-count, 100% percale cotton bed linen (just heavenly!), free Wi-Fi that really works to a 42-inch Smart TV, mini-bar fridge and complimentary Hazz coffee, it provides the ultimate setting for a relaxed stay. The en-suite bathroom was small, but included a Hansgrohe shower with a pressure heat pump, basin and toilet.
Image courtesy of 107 Dorpstraat Boutique Hotel.
The hotel is ideally located and suited to international business travellers as each room is equipped with a desk that has integrated international multi plugs and a private safe. The triple-glazed windows ensure a quiet working environment and a good night’s rest for all guests. For a full list of all room amenities, please click here.
In my opinion, 107 Dorpstraat isn’t really suited for families as there are no activities for children, but they do have a semi self-catering Family Room on the ground floor. It includes an extra-length king comfort bed, sleeper couch and kitchenette.
The modern yet relaxed decor displaying old photographs of what Dorp Straat and Stellenbosch looked like centuries ago. Image courtesy of 107 Dorpstraat Boutique Hotel.
Once we had settled in (read: hubby had a catnap on the comfy bed) and I caught up on some social media, we ventured down to the wine bar which becomes the breakfast area each morning. Serving a lovely selection of local award-winning wines, this is the ideal place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing or a long day of meetings. Soak up the atmosphere of Dorp Straat and enjoy a spot of people-watching while you sip on a glass of wine or one of their amazing coffees.
I was impressed that the wines per glass were reasonably priced, starting from R35 per glass. Each afternoon from 15:00 to 18:00, complimentary tea and coffee is served, along with delicious cupcakes (the carrot cake was my fave). 107 Dorpstraat will sort out your caffeine fix in no time. I lost count of the number of cappuccinos I had in just two days (in between quaffing glasses of bubbly!). Be sure to get there early as the cupcakes disappear VERY quickly.
If you need any advice or recommendations as to what you can see and do, where to eat, wine estate tours or transfer services, the local and knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you with everything you need to enjoy your stay and explore the local cuisine, beauty and culture.
Strolling the streets of Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch is an excellent town to explore on foot, and that is exactly what we did that afternoon. World-famous Dorp Straat is located in the historic town centre and is within easy walking distance of the town’s best restaurants, art galleries, museums, coffee shops and boutique stores. While you can visit plenty of art galleries, there is also an abundance of art right on the streets. Turn a corner and you may find yourself facing a large, bright pink comb. Or little monkeys on a seesaw. Perhaps magnificent cheetah statues chasing their prey.
Church Street was buzzing with locals and visitors enjoying the last of the autumn sunshine and a few drinks. We popped into Basic Bistro for an early dinner. It’s a quirky little spot in Church Street with a warm ambience, good service and okay food. Evenings at home are usually chaotic, what with making dinner, checking homework and bath time. There is almost nothing better than returning to a cosy hotel room, hopping into a super comfy bed, glass of wine in hand and switching the telly on. I don’t watch TV at home, so I absolutely loved this bit of indulgence.
We both slept like a dream and awoke the following morning feeling fab and ready for some light exploring. But first – breakfast! And a delicious cappuccino (or two) to wash it down. Choose from an array of fresh fruit, yoghurt, pastries, cold meats and cheese. They also serve a hot breakfast of bacon and eggs or an omelette. Before we set off, we went up to the Rooftop Terrace. Besides being the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the town, you get to swoon over the breathtaking 360 degree mountain and vineyard views. And they are spectacular! This is quite possibly the hotel’s best feature and we vowed to return after our day out.
Welcome to The Waterford Way
Owned by the Ord family and developed under the vigilant eye of Kevin Arnold, Cellar Master and Managing Partner since 1998, I felt as if I had stepped into a magical fairy tale as we arrived at Waterford Estate. This may sound a tad far-fetched, but you’ll understand why if you’ve been to visit. You’ll be greeted by the heavenly aromas of citrus, lavender and rosemary as you drive up to the grand entrance. Situated in the scenic Blaauwklippen Valley in the Stellenbosch wine region, this picturesque winery has that wow factor and offers guests a relaxed setting to enjoy a variety of tasting options.
The chilly morning gave way to a warm, sunny day, just perfect for savouring a leisurely wine tasting in the Mediterranean-style courtyard, complete with a tranquil flowing fountain. It is probably one of the best wine tasting experiences I’ve ever had. And not just because the courtyard brought back amazing memories of our time spent in Venice and Rome. Lauren had a thorough knowledge of the wines and provided us with friendly and impeccable service. As for the wines? I could wax lyrical about them all day long. Just don’t ask me any technical wine terms. They have some truly stellar vintages and I enjoyed them all. Even though I am not a white wine drinker, the Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay went down a treat 😉 If you are an avid Shiraz lover, then you simply must try the Kevin Arnold Shiraz.
There is no restaurant on site, so don’t arrive hungry. Give their Wine & Chocolate Experience a try. I am told that the Von Geusau chocolates paired with Waterford Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Natural Sweet wine, create a unique flavour sensation. I will have to return for this indulgent pairing soon! If sitting around for a few hours sipping on divine wines isn’t your thing, then book your spot on a Wine Drive Safari or the Porcupine Trail Wine Walk. Both require bookings at least a week in advance.
I really, really want to go on the Wine Drive Safari! 😉
Did you know? They only use half of the total 120 hectares of land for vine planting so that they can maintain and preserve the natural fauna and flora. If you only have time to visit one wine estate in Stellenbosch, then put Waterford Estate on your list.
We were pretty hungry by then, so we popped into Root 44 on our way back to 107 Dorpstraat. This cool, vibey country market is great fun for a family day out or chilling with a group of friends.
We headed straight for The Mussel Monger. We were both in the mood for fresh oysters and they really have the best we’ve ever tasted. Almost nothing beats a chilled glass of MCC and local, sustainable, juicy oysters from Saldanha Bay on the West Coast. You can also find them at Mojo Market in Sea Point. Their tasty mussels are also to die for!
After some time spent on the sunny Rooftop Terrace, we decided to stay in that night and just enjoy a relaxed evening. This may sound boring to some, but those with children especially will understand what a rare treat this is 😉
Our delicious breakfast ended with one last cappuccino (they really are divine!), and after saying farewell, we headed back home. But what is a road trip without a stop or three along the way?
Oom Samie Se Winkel
Oom Samie se Winkel, meaning “Uncle Sammy’s Shop”, is a quirky Victorian-style store that has been a Stellenbosch institution since 1904 and operates the same way now as it did back in the Victorian era. It is a national monument and offers all sorts of bric-a-brac and delightful foods and products.
Dating back to 1692, this magnificent wine farm is situated on the slopes of the Simonsberg Mountains outside of Stellenbosch. Taste their award-winning wines, enjoy the beautiful gardens or dine at one of their eateries. It is a lovely wine estate with plenty of space for kids to run around and play.
Another wine estate that tops my faves list, this popular spot doesn’t need that much introduction. I adore their superb range of wines, love the relaxed ambience and could easily stay here for a few hours lazily sipping on a glass or three of their finest. Their famous picnics on the lush lawns are a must do.
It was a gloriously slow weekend getaway and one that I highly recommend you try. The town of Stellenbosch is well worth exploring on foot and our stay at 107 Dorpstraat was simply heavenly and such a fabulous spoil. I give them a 9/10 rating.
Have you stayed at 107 Dorpstraat? Or been to any of the places mentioned in the post? I’d love to hear about your experiences, so please post your comments below. Perhaps you know of a must do activity or place to visit in the Stellenbosch area that you can share with us.
Yours in Travel, Food & Wine xoxo
Please note – All views and images are my own unless otherwise indicated.
A bird’s eye view of Dorp Straat from the Rooftop Terrace.
