A getaway to Knorhoek

It’s beginning to look a lot like normal…

This weekend, our little family was invited to experience a quaint local getaway at Knorhoek Guest Cottages and we all felt ridiculously giddy at the thought of seeing a change of scenery after months of being home.

The kids were excited to be going on a holiday and with it just around the corner from us in beautiful Stellenbosch, it gave me peace of mind knowing that Cece wouldn’t have long enough to scream during the car ride.

We arrived at midday on Friday and it was the best possible weather. We were booked into the self-catering Lavender Cottage (currently priced from R2170 per night for up to five guests) which has two bedrooms – one with twin beds and one with a double and single. There is a fully equipped kitchen, private patio with barbeque and garden. It also includes wi-fi.

Rosie was thrilled to be able to choose her own bed whilst Cece ran around the open stoop and garden like a little wildling. Guests have their own stoop but share a garden space with those in the adjourning cottage – fortunately for us, we were the only people booked in so had the whole space to ourselves.

The Restaurant

Once we had checked in, we headed to the restaurant for a complimentary lunch. Despite the hot temperatures, the canopy of trees over the seating area offered the perfect amount of cool shade and there is even a splash pool for the kids to play in – a great idea for birthday parties.

We began with starters of a Caprese Salad, and Calamari tossed in cajun spice – fresh and delicious. For mains, I opted for a wagyu beef burger topped with brie cheese, caramelised onion, rocket and crispy chips. I couldn’t finish it. My eyes won that battle.

Mr H chose the pork belly from the Country Feast menu (a 3 course meal for R250 – a total steal) and the girls had chicken strips and chips which also doubled up for their dinner too.

Whilst we enjoyed our food the children were free to play on the jumping castle, on the jungle gym or in the sandpit and my parenting heart felt happy knowing they were safe and always within sight.

The wine selection could do with more variety – we chose a Namysto Sauvignon Blanc which was very average, so I’m kicking myself for not trying one of Knorhoek’s own wines.

Things to do

Despite a hearty lunch, the weather was too good to waste and we headed to the swimming pool. It was about a 2min walk from our cottage, surrounded by ample sun loungers.

Cece was not a fan of the cold water but Rosie loved it and after a brief swim, we headed back to the cottage as I promised the girls we’d do a chocolate hunt.

NB: I packed a packet of coloring pens and printables for the girls to play with AND bag of chocolate coins which I hid around the cottage. Simple activities that afforded Mr H and I a moment to sit outside with a bottle of bubbly 😉

As the evening cooled and the sun dipped, we took a stroll around the estate counting peacocks and watching the sun change the colors of the surrounding mountains. It was so beautifully peaceful, just us, and nature (and a security guard).

When bedtime came, I kid you not, the girls got their PJs on without a fuss AND took themselves to bed without us even asking. Within minutes, they were fast asleep.

Rise & Shine

The sound of bird calls woke us and we reluctantly packed our bags ready to say goodbye. The cottage gets the most beautiful light during the mornings.

The restaurant opens for breakfast at 10am which, for tourists, would be too late to start the day but for a lazy morning in the winelands, is perfect. With prices starting from R75, the breakfast options were simple taste-pleasers – the flapjack and bacon stack was the clear winner though and perfect for the girls.

Overall Experience

The tranquility was a serious win for us and we loved the restaurant, friendly staff and the way it catered for active children. 

You’re paying for the peace and the comforts of home in a charming surrounding and for those wanting to visit the winelands of Cape Town, it’s an attractive location to use as a base.

Be sure to book your accommodation in advance through guesthouse@knorhoek.co.za | All rates have been reduced by 30% – Special valid from 1 July 2020 – 30 November 2020

Disclaimer:

We were hosted by Knorhoek in exchange for a review – all views are entirely my own.

All images belong solely to me and may not be used without prior written consent.