A recent trip found Grant and I in the heart of the winelands, at the Oude Werf Hotel in Stellenbosch. The university town of Stellenbosch, is surrounded by the picturesque vineyards of the Cape Winelands and the mountainous nature reserves of Jonkershoek and Simonsberg. Oak-lined streets and Cape Dutch architecture, give you a true sense of South Africa’s Dutch colonial history.
Oude Werf Hotel
Oude Werf Hotel, is the oldest hotel in South Africa and stands on the landmark site of the country’s first church. The original hotel was built in 1687 but later destroyed by a fire in 1710. The “old churchyard” then gave rise to the Cape Dutch-style Wium’s Inn. Today, after much rebuilding, stands the Oude Werf Hotel as we know it. Owned by the Petousis family, this intimate Boutique Hotel, in the heart of Stellenbosch, offers guests a mix of old world charm and modern contemporary flare.
Accommodation
The 58 room hotel, has recently been renovated to incorporate the latest interior features, while maintaining its historical charm. Guests can choose from either Superior, Luxury or Deluxe Rooms.
Superior Rooms have an open-plan layout, consisting of a bedroom and luxury en-suite with a shower, vanity and toilet. Interior styling combines ultra-modern fixtures with subtle period-inspired details.
We stayed in a stunning Luxury Room. The layout, similar to the Superior Room, is also open-plan, the luxury en suite, however, has a bath, shower, vanity and toilet. Contemporary design is beautifully blended with soft muted tones and textures, giving the room a warm luxurious feel. I particularly loved the exposed brick wall.
Deluxe Rooms, the hotel’s signature style accommodation, are located on both Ground and First Floor levels, in the original, Inn building. The rooms are generously spacious and include large deluxe en suites, with a free-standing bath and separate shower. High ceilings, a rich colour palette and period-styled furnishings, echo some of the Hotel’s early history.
Dining
The hotel’s contemporary style flows seamlessly through to the Oude Werf Restaurant. Modern finishes, trendy pendant light fittings, rich wooden furnishings and glass folding doors, combine to create an elegant, inviting interior. The restaurant’s vine-covered courtyard, where we had breakfast, is the perfect spot for dinner under the stars – weather permitting of course! The restaurant serves breakfast, dinner, lunch, as well as high tea.
The stylish lounge and bar serves a large selection of beverages, including barista coffees and cappuccinos, teas, milkshakes, fresh fruit juices and soft drinks. Wines, beers and spirits (both local and international) and a selection of cocktails, are all available daily from 11h00 – 23h00. {Also available via room service.}
Leisure
The lush poolside garden is the epitome of tranquillity and the perfect spot to escape the craziness of life. It was a bit too chilly to swim when we stayed over but it was great to sit and soak up the warmth of the sun. In the warmer summer months, I imagine the inviting pool will be a most welcome reprieve from the heat.
There are many activities to enjoy in Stellenbosch as well as the surrounding areas. As I mentioned, the town is steeped in history, so if this is of interest then a visit to the Village Museum or the Toy & Miniature Museum, could be just the thing for you.
For the creatives, a visit to one of the commercial galleries near the Hotel, is a must. You will find works which include Cape landscapes, contemporary painting, print, sculpture, ceramics and objets d’ art. Among some of the most important Fine Art collections, are those of the Sasol Art Gallery and the Rupert Art Museum.
Another popular attraction are the various markets in Stellenbosch. These include Slow Market, Root 44 Market and Blaauwklippen Market, which offer a variety of artisanal food stalls, wines, crafts, children’s activities, as well as live entertainment.
The vibrant town also offers an array of dining experience from coffee shops, to bistro style eateries, as well as fine dining options.
Last but not least, I would recommend a visit to the surrounding wine farms. There really are too many to mention in this article but an experience I would definitely add to the list, is the Pinotage Root, which I did last year.
I loved our stay at Oude Werf Hotel but one night is definitely not long enough, especially if you would like to do sightseeing. It has a wonderfully central location and is perfect to use as a base if you are exploring Stellenbosch.
Contact & Location
Disclaimer: I was sponsored our accommodation and meals by Oude Werf for review purposes. This is not a sponsored or paid post. All opinions and images are property of ©Inspired Living and/or Fiona Rossiter, unless otherwise stated. To see more read the full PR & Disclosure Policy below.
I have been looking around for hotels in cape town to visit and i must say your list of hotel and accommodations has left me with a lot to choose from 🙂 Very informative and to the point. Thanks