La Petite Ferme

Franschhoek, South Africa

Situated in the exclusive Winelands enclave of Franschhoek, La Petite Ferme is a well-heeled destination, not least for its superb collection of small-batch wines that are produced on the property, but also for its breathtaking setting, farm-fresh food and, of course, warm hospitality. La Petite Ferme is exactly that, “a small farm” authentic and rustic but luxuriously lavish at the same time. The intimacy and tranquility of this hotel is what makes it so special. An expansive lawn, dotted with roaming peacocks (and visitors enjoying wine with spectacular views) lines the front of the property, with the charming, glass-fronted restaurant just behind it, where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and/or dinner. And then there’s the hotel, whose rooms all boast spellbinding valley, mountain and vineyard views from their perch on the northern slopes of the Franschhoek Mountains. There are fifteen individually decorated rooms on the property – five Manor House Suites that open onto a shared pool; five stylish Vineyard Suites, each with their own private pool; and five serene Winery Suites overlooking their own shared pool. Each suite is lavishly country with

a stylish combination of wood and wicker, white and neutral colors. Raw roof beams and unpretentious wooden floors give a foundation of comfort contrasting with the luxury trimmings that each suite displays.

There’s loads to do on the estate: leisurely walks, more invigorating hikes, a guided vineyard tour and tastings of the boutique estate’s wines, mountain-biking (bicycles supplied) and, of course, lounging by the pool. There is also an in-room spa service on hand to transform your suite into a haven of relaxation and pampering.

The view-drenched restaurant is divided into multiple areas, with tables on a glass-enclosed verandah or alfresco options on two terraces under shady trees. The country-contemporary seasonal cuisine offers prettily plated starters, mouthwatering mains and decadent desserts, prepared by the head chef and his team. The Chef’s Table is a special experience, giving you a deeper insight into this extraordinary place, with a carefully considered five-course menu of food and wine pairings.

AT A GLANCE – 5 WINERY SUITES

The former wine cellar (in use until 2016) has been converted into five luxury suites with a fresh, modern look – think custom wallpaper, high-quality linen and a “showstopper” bathtub. Each is aptly named after a La Petite Ferme wine (once crafted in this very spot) – Viognier, Verdict, Baboon Rock, Variation and ZA – so pick your favorite and settle in.

King-size extra-length bed
Open plan bathroom with a freestanding bath and walk-in shower
Seating area with smart TV
Tea/coffee station and fruit bowl
Minibar with complimentary wine
Shared large pool
Private balcony
Air-conditioning and underfloor heating
Wi-Fi

AT A GLANCE – 5 VINEYARD SUITES

These spacious suites of varying size, set apart from the main buildings, capture the essence of a particular place or memory – the vineyards (Florentin), romance (Provençale), wilderness (Africa), souks and spices (Moresque) or a Swiss lake (Léman). Each has incredible views to wake up to.

King-size extra-length bed
En-suite with a freestanding bath and walk-in shower
Minibar with complimentary wine
Tea/coffee station and fruit bowl
Seating area with smart TV
Fireplace
furnished verandah with built-in daybed
Private plunge pool with loungers
Air-conditioning, ceiling fan and underfloor heating
Wi-Fi

AT A GLANCE – 5 MANOR HOUSE SUITES

The elegant Manor House has four deluxe suites – Helene, Andre, Sryani, John & Carol – and one superior suite, Foufi. The names refer to people who are special to the owner, and each is uniquely decorated to reflect their personality and origins: Switzerland, South of France, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe and Lebanon. The rooms open onto a shady terrace and share a large pool with fantastic views.