Mont Rochelle – Franschhoek’s Finest
Suffice it to say, Sir Richard Branson doesn’t mess around. When he puts his power behind something – be it a record label, an airline, a mobile operator or a philanthropic pursuit – the world takes notice. On one of the magnate’s visits to South Africa, he was – like most of us – completely enchanted by the natural beauty and charm of South Africa’s Franschhoek Valley.
“This is truly one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa,” he says of the popular Western Cape winelands destination. In fact, he loved the area so much that he added one of its finest hotels – Mont Rochelle – to his own prestigious portfolio of world-class properties.
A scenic 45-minute drive from Cape Town
Mont Rochelle covers 100 acres of postcard-worthy winelands farmland at the foot of the Klein Dassenberg Mountain Range. If you enjoy being surrounded by majestic mountains, expansive greenery and the most pristine quiet nature has to offer, you’re sure to find your happy place at this Cape gem.
The hotel’s 22 superbly sophisticated rooms and suites all offer exquisite views of the surrounding valley and mountains. Although the property exudes world-class elegance, it’s also family-friendly, with certain rooms accommodating children in single beds. For families or groups of guests looking for a more private retreat, the Mont Rochelle Manor House is a luxury villa situated a short walk from the main hotel. The exclusive retreat offers four perfectly appointed suites, a kitchen, lounge and – wait for it – not one but two swimming pools, plus a private gym! It can accommodate up to eight guests sharing, as well as offering a bunkroom for up to six children. Talk about an unforgettable family getaway!
Spectacular cuisine
Mont Rochelle is also known for its spectacular cuisine, with a bit of something on offer for every palate and plate. The Country Kitchen is the destination’s informal restaurant, and offers hearty lunches and delicious dinners. For those looking for an even more earthbound dining experience, the Mont Rochelle team prepares beautiful picnic baskets filled to the brim with goodies that can be enjoyed outside on the grounds. If you’re in the mood to experience the haute cuisine for which Franschhoek is renowned, Miko at Mont Rochelle serves a blend of international dishes representative of the cosmopolitan nature of South African cuisine.
There are those who might say that no meal in Franschhoek is complete without a good (no, great) glass of vino. Franschhoek is, of course, renowned for its amazing wines. Mont Rochelle cultivates Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, amongst others, in its own vineyards. You can sample and enjoy their unique vintages in the cellar, at the restaurants, on your picnic blanket, or in the comfort of your luxurious room.
In awe with your surroundings
During the rare moments when you’re not eating, drinking or simply sitting in awe of your surrounds, there are plenty of other things to do at Mont Rochelle and in its picturesque surrounds. There is an outdoor heated pool and Hammam for some relaxing hydrotherapy, a spa offering 100% natural African aromatherapy products, a well-equipped gym for those who feel they may have indulged in a tad too much of the good life, mountain bikes to rent, trails to hike, a tennis court and lots more. That is, if you’re able to drag yourself out of your luxurious boudoir to get that far…