The 26 rooms and suites here are named after the leading wines of the region. They are beautifully decked out, with splashes of colour provided by local art and flower displays, with views onto the valley. The Cabernet Rooms in the Vineyard Wing include private terraces, Pinotage Rooms feature separate lounges, and the two largest, the Cap Classique Suites, have lounges, private terraces and plunge pools. The Manor House, the hotel’s luxury villa, goes one better, with two swimming pools and a gym, a great base for families or groups, accommodating up to eight guests.
This is a region almost as well known for its cuisine as its wonderful wines, and the restaurants at Mont Rochelle are both excellent. Miko, where an extensive breakfast is served, is the more formal option, featuring the best local produce in luscious combinations. A typical menu might include sumac-spiced springbok with creamed spinach gnocchi and a red pepper and blueberry compote; or pomegranate and lime cured Franschhoek salmon trout. The Country Kitchen, next to the wine cellar, is more informal but a blindingly beautiful white and light space with a terrace for outdoor dining. The kitchen also makes up delectable picnic baskets for days spent exploring the vast grounds or nearby attractions.
Also at the main ranch, the in-house spa and outdoor heated pool are gorgeous, the latter with stunning views of the Franschhoek Mountains. And, for getting out and about, there are biking, hiking and horse riding routes, all of which can incorporate a wine tasting session – arriving at a cellar on horseback is rather fun. Franshhoek village is great for a wander too, with several art and craft shops and galleries to explore.
