Lekkerwijn

Historic Cape Dutch homestead in the heart of the Cape Winelands, offering friendly B&B or cottage accommodation

If you are looking for a place in the Cape Winelands which is definitely a family home and not a hotel, then we have no hesitation recommending Lekkerwijn. Based in the centre of the Franschhoek - Paarl - Stellenbosch triangle, you are perfectly placed for day trips to all 3. And you are bang in the middle of spectacular countryside: rolling vineyards, fruit orchards, meandering rivers and the dramatic backdrop of the Drakenstein Mountains.

Best of all, this Cape Dutch homestead has a friendly, human feel to it. It was built in the 17th century and has been home to the fruit-farming Pickstone family since the 19th century. Its spacious and elegantly furnished drawing and dining rooms ooze history, while the 5 guest rooms feel homely and familiar. There is also a small cottage with sitting room and self-catering facilities. Simon and Ross are friendly, hands-on hosts with lots of plans for improvement, including child-friendly services, wedding party planning and concierged activities like horse-riding and wine tasting.

Highs

• The friendly, warm welcome and "concierge" service
• Traditional Cape Dutch layout with internal courtyard
• Sitting rooms with gorgeous antique furniture
• Spacious guestrooms, mostly ensuite
• Extensive wooded gardens with plunge pool
• In the heart of the wine estates

Lows

• It’s quite near a main road, though you can't hear it and a line of trees keeps you screened
• The pool is small and not very private
• Don’t expect hotel facilities (in-room telephones, room service or anything like that)
• The cottage is less elegant than the main house, with fewer services - but that's reflected in the price