New look for South Africa's oldest inn

Oude Werf Hotel in Stellenbosch is inviting guests to experience its new look after an extensive renovation and refurbishment that saw this cultural and historic gem restored to its former glory - with a few exciting modern touches.

Elanie Fourie, general manager of the Oude Werf Hotel, says the 20-month process has resulted in a truly unique property in the heart of the Cape Winelands capital. "It's been quite a journey to modernise South Africa's oldest inn without losing its old world appeal. However, the result of all this hard work is a stunning blend of classic and modern touches, a unique balance of 19th century Georgian charm and 21st century modern chic."

The Oude Werf Hotel is built on the yard of South Africa's very first church, commissioned by then-governor Simon van der Stel in 1686. A fire destroyed the original church building, but in 1802 an inn was opened on the same site and over the years evolved into what is now one of Stellenbosch's most famous landmarks and a National Monument.

The renovations started in September 2010 with the restoration of the exterior façade to return it to its original 1802 look, the refurbishment of ten rooms and a new reception area. In 2011, work commenced on a second phase of restorations - the underground parking lot was extended, twelve new rooms were created from an existing building, and the Meiring Building was gutted and refitted with nine new bedrooms.

The result is striking - the hotel has retained its unique cultural and historic identity but has fused this with beautiful modern touches, a captivating blend of old world and new world.

The concept for the look and feel of the renovated hotel was developed by Les Harbottle, long-time associate of the hotel owners the Petousis family. "His vision for the Oude Werf Hotel enabled us to modernise the property while still retaining its historic charm. The things that make the Oude Werf Hotel special - the friendly staff, familiar faces and the hotel's warmth - are still unchanged. It's only the face of the hotel that has been updated - the heart is still the same," explains Fourie.

The hotel's renowned 1802 Restaurant has also recently appointed a new chef, Albert van der Loo. "Albert came to us after working at some of KwaZulu-Natal and Franschhoek's top restaurants. Specialising in venison and with an extensive list of finely-balanced sauces in his repertoire, he has already revolutionised our kitchen and menu offering," says Fourie. "With our new chef at the helm and a further extension of the restaurant planned, we invite food-lovers to come and experience the famous hospitality and food that 1802 has become known and loved for."

As part of the launch of the new look for the Oude Werf Hotel, the hotel has put together a few special packages that will appeal to business and leisure travellers alike. During the month of June, business travellers can take advantage of the special business package offering a single classic room for R695, a single superior room for R895 or a single governor room for R1245 per night, with a double room supplement of R250. To help the businessman-on-the-move, the hotel will also iron one shirt during the stay.

Leisure travellers can capitalise on the public holidays in August and September with a long weekend special deal starting from R695 per person per night sharing. Book your stay from 9-12 August or from 21 - 24 September and have the option of staying four nights and paying for three, or staying three nights and paying for two. The special offer includes breakfast at the hotel's famous 1802 Restaurant.

To make a booking or to get more information about the special deals, visit oudewerfhotel.co.za.