Schoone Oordt, Swellendam South Africa

It is amazing how much difference an owner makes to an establishment. The first time we visited Schoone Oordt there was only a manager on duty. We were suitably impressed to want to book again. But there had been some failings on the night we stayed there. For the last 2 evenings of our mini getaway we booked a luxury room.

Schoone Oordt

We arrived to warm greetings from Fidiney, as if we were long lost friends. He invited us in to enjoy a cup of coffee and a sweet nibble before going to our room. South Africa had just opened up for local tourism and we were thanked for choosing Schoone Oordt. As they had other guests staying with them that night we chose to dine in.

Our room

Our luxury room, overlooking the stunning garden and water features had everything in it we needed. From a king size bed that is super comfortable, to a well equipped bathroom, with bath. No expense has been spared to make your stay comfortable so expect a down duvet, French coffee press and nibbles. We had a private outdoor seating area and were situated close to the swimming pool.

Well equipped luxury

Each room comes equipped with satellite TV, under-floor heating and heated towel rails in the bathrooms and antique wardrobes and dressers. The mini bar includes complimentary water and a selection of local wines and beers. Thankfully the fireplace had not been lit in a while and we made use of the air-conditioning. Bathroom amenities included a selection of locally handmade Rain bath and body products which you can purchase at their store in town. There is no need to bring a hairdryer with you as you will find one in your room, together with an ‘in case you forgot’ box that includes a sewing kit, shoe polish, headache tablets and organic mosquito repellent. There is also a small jar of cotton wool and ear buds and a box of tissues in the bathroom.

The little touches

Other than the complimentary afternoon tea and treats, expect to step out of the bath or over-sized shower and wrap yourself in a beautiful towelling gown while slipping your feet into the slippers that have been provided. Daily housekeeping takes place while you are out for the day and the evening turndown service will be done while you are having dinner. You will not be disturbed by the staff, but they are around if you need them. The gardens are well maintained and your car will be washed while you have breakfast. This was great for us as we did a lot of dirt road driving while we were away.

Wining and dining

I love to order anything that will benefit others and so for our wine choice with dinner I went for a bottle of Thunderchild (see notes below). We started off enjoying our wine in the lounge before heading to the dining room for our meal. The menu is seasonal and for starters we had the lemongrass & citrus glazed seafood (R120). Dave had the chicken curry for his main meal (R175) and I had the local trout served with tender croutons (R195). Our meal was fantastic but sadly the photographs do not reflect that. Dessert for me was the chocolate fondant (R95) while Dave enjoyed an espresso.

Breakfast choices at Schoone Oordt

Each morning we were presented with a small selection of cured meats, cheeses and home made crackers as well as a glass of yoghurt, homemade granola and fresh fruit. The breakfasts are rotated every 3 days so if you stay longer than a night you will have a varied selection. The first morning we had the slow baked apples and the signature eggs benedict. That afternoon I mentioned to Alison (the owner) that there was no need to do apples for us. And she presented us with the other two menus. This meant Dave and I could choose what to have for breakfast the following morning, without limitations. For me it was the crumpets with strawberries and for Dave, the omelette.

Giving back: Thunderchild

In 1918, in the wake of the great flu epidemic, an orphanage, Die Herberg, was built by the Robertson Community for the orphaned children left destitute. In 2003 a vineyard was planted on the grounds by the same community. This blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon is made free and sold by the sympathetic cellars in aid of the children, who today are no longer all orphans but mainly from broken homes. 100% of the grapes are grown on the orphanage’s grounds and 100% of the profit is donated to the children.

Special rates at Schoone Oordt:

Contact them on +27 28 514 1248 for special rates or use this link to book your accommodation and get 10% back after your stay.

Inspiration published on Lavender and Lime March 24:

• • 2019: Dark Sacred Night
  • 2017: Lavender and Lime Jelly
  • 2016: Braised Short Ribs
  • 2014: Trail Mix
  • 2012: Food Quiz Number 13 For A Friday
  • 2011: Moroccan Eggs

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