5 star luxury in South Africa’s gourmet capital

In 2006, the property formerly known as the La Couronne Hotel, was severely damaged by a fire. When it was rebuilt, the owners (businessman Miko Rwayitare and hotelier Erwin Schnitzler) decided that it was the perfect opportunity to merge two neighbouring properties … and so Mont Rochelle was born. The Cape-Dutch styled property now offers 16 bedrooms and 6 suites, which span over three separate wings, giving guests the privacy and atmosphere of a boutique hotel.

Each room has been individually and stylishly decorated and is equipped to the highest standards. Guests arrive in the Garden Wing of the Hotel, which houses the Reception, Colonial Cigar Bar, eight Luxury Bedrooms, one Junior Suite and a Business Centre. Views are over the rose garden.

The Manor House consists of a Fine Dining Restaurant as well as two Junior Suites, one Deluxe Suite and two Luxury Bedrooms. Down the stairs from the Restaurant is the Vineyard Wing, cleverly hidden below ground level so as to not obstruct the Manor House’s view. Each of the 6 Luxury bedrooms has its own private garden and the two Deluxe Suites have private plunge pools. Mont Rochelle also offers its guests facilities including a Wellness Facility, Sauna, Swimming Pool, Pool Bar and Gymnasium.

In addition to Mange Tout, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, more relaxed meals can also be enjoyed at the Country Kitchen, an al fresco restaurant located at the hotel’s wine tasting facility, a short distance away. Having owned a number of Michelin Restaurants, Schnitzler’s passion for food and wine ensures that dining at Mont Rochelle is memorable – be it the finest gourmet cuisine, a packed picnic basket in the vineyards – or a simple sandwich in the Cigar bar!

Sixteen hectares of the 33-hectare farm is under vine and boasts Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties. The traditional Cape Dutch buildings on the farm have been well preserved and the focus is on using old wine making techniques to produce the finest quality product. Mont Rochelle provides daily excursions including private wine tasting, cellar tours with the wine maker, walking and mountain bike trails, picnics and horse riding at the Mont Rochelle Equestrian Centre.

Mont Rochelle is the ideal base from which to explore the charming town of Franschhoek, home to over 20 wineries as well as many amazing arts, crafts, antique shops, galleries and inviting coffee shops. The town also boasts eight of the ‘Top 100’ restaurants in South Africa, which is probably why it is often referred to as the gourmet capital of South Africa.

For more info visit Montrochelle.co.za.