Photo courtesy of La Residence
The intoxication of the Cape Winelands was, for me, less about the wine—though that was certainly enjoyable!—than it was the cocktail of peace and contentment, mixed with some generous shots of visual stimulation. The latter was due to La Residence’s interior/exterior design, which is just about as good as it gets (and was the reason why La Residence was on my bucket list).
La Residence maintains a well-manicured property in the Franschhoek Valley, surrounded by vineyards and plum orchards, and boasts a spectacular mountain backdrop.
We really appreciate the time General Manager Andrew Rosettenstein spent with us to give us a tour, during which we decided to have our portrait made in one of the communal-area restrooms. :) And why not? It was beautiful!
Our blog of January 28 showcased a sampling of La Residence’s exquisite suites. This one will focus on the food and some of the public areas. (Public being a relative term, as only guests and staff are permitted on the 30-acre estate.)
One of the extraordinary features of La Residence is its indoor/outdoor lounge. What a beautiful place to forget the stresses of life, enjoy the beauty of nature (enhanced by man)—and, later in the day, watch the sunset with a complimentary glass of bubbly in hand.
I was a bit smitten by the candelabras and marble-topped table in this area.
This section is called Persian Alley because of all the Persian rugs that dot the portico. When the weather is favorable, meals are served here al fresco.
Appearing almost as a design feature, peacocks roam about freely, even inviting themselves inside the Grand Lobby, as if their splendor is of course an equal match for it. My first thought was, “How cool is that!”
The second was, “Please don’t poop on those rugs!”
Should the weather be inclement, there is an additional indoor lounge, also beautiful. Notice the beams.
For those with more time than we had (one day is not enough), the pool provided a view of terraced vineyards.
Photo courtesy of La Residence
There are actually over 300 vineyards in the South African Winelands. Borrowing a bike from La Residence is one of eight ways to engage in nearby wine tasting. Horseback, helicopter and the wine train are several others.
Photo courtesy of La Residence
Franschhoek is considered the ‘Culinary Capital’ of South Africa. Gastronomy is an important part of the whole La Residence experience.
Meals were beautifully served.
For those who love dishes, this was like a china museum.
After a delectable entrée of beef fillet with herb creamed potatoes, I settled on this yummy dessert: coffee & chocolate fondant with salted caramel and strawberry ice cream.
It was another treat to come back down for breakfast the next day. A selection of morning papers—and reading glasses, in case you forgot yours—awaited. Though, frankly, we were happy to forget about the news for a while. Why spoil the illusion of paradise?
Even Al’s café latte was beautifully befitting its surroundings.
In addition to the cold breakfast buffet, the hot menu had six offerings, including petit fillet mignon with poached eggs and smoked paprika hollandaise. However, I chose well with this frittata. With its roasted vegetables, cream cheese and herbs, it was the best I’ve ever put in my mouth!
All too soon we left this portico, where the staff was lined up to wave good-bye.
It was a dream come true to stay at La Residence, and it is without hesitation—and with great pleasure—that we name it the ScheckTrek Pick for the Winelands Region of South Africa!
If you would like to experience La Residence for yourself, ScheckTrek Travel can provide the following complimentary amenities for 2017 (and expected to continue):
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast, for up to two in-room guests
Private wine tasting of La Residence wines from their own vineyards
15% off Spa treatments
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
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