A secret kept

Nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, a stone’s throw away from the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, lies Arambrook. A boutique hotel set on a beautifully lush property on the banks of the Liesbeek River. The sweeping views of the mountain are magnificent and it’s so quiet and peaceful, all you may hear are your thoughts. Hopefully sipping on something chilled.

At Arambrook nothing is too much trouble. They pride themselves on their ethos of personalised service where every whim is catered for, no detail left unturned. There are eight suites, named after the owners family, that are spacious and superior with views over the fynbos or mountainside. Elegant sophistication comes to mind, with a thread count to induce sweet dreams and uninterrupted sleep. The small team are dedicated and friendly, and understand how the small things make a big difference.

Now you might be asking yourself why I am writing about boutique hotels, hold onto your wine glass, I am getting to that. Chef Stacey follows a farm to fork philosophy, or in this case, veggie garden to table philosophy and cooks up the most sublime dishes for guests that are fresh, seasonal and delicious. The house garden has been carefully planted and has an abundance of produce. Each menu is curated according to guest tastes. I’d happily get lost amongst the rosemary, artichokes and bay trees, wind blowing through my hair, glass of Claudia in hand.

Aubrey, the GM is on hand for that perfect pairing. He’s quite a character, and has been known to pour bubbles for breakfast. He holds the key to the glass cellar, and as a previous brand ambassador for the One & Only, knows a thing or two about wine. The library is the perfect place to settle down with an old book, and a glass of Pinot. You’ll never leave.

Arambrook offers tranquil sophistication in the heart of the Southern Suburbs, within close proximity to the historical Constantia Wine Route, the idyllic town of Kalk Bay and other attractions. And if you are a local, a break from busy, modern life.

I am not sure about you, but don’t we all need a moment to slow down and appreciate the good things. Preferably glass in hand and Table Mountain as your backdrop.