T H E B E S T O F LU XU RY LIVING
ELEVATE the season
Chic summer ESCAPES
Our hand-selected LUXURY HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
3 BUCKET LIST FOR THE
The best new Cape Town restaurants
STY L E
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G AS T R ON OMY
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TRAVE L
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FIND A SKINCARE PROFESSIONAL
experience a
FACIAL LIKE NO OTHER with Environ’s Essential Radiance Reveal Treatment Target the signs of sun-damage and pigmentation while enhancing your skin’s glow with an effective combination of ingredients for a visibly even-toned and radiant appearance. Environ’s pioneering Dual Electro-Sonic Technology sets the benchmark for Professional Skincare Treatments. Low frequency Sonophoresis together with pulsed Iontophoresis in combination with Environ’s Professional Skincare formulations, helps deliver more of what skin needs, where it needs it most - making a real lasting difference, for life. Experience the signature Environ glow.
THE ESSENCE OF ITALIAN LIFE
C O LO N I A
ACQ UA D I PA RMA .COM
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CONTENTS
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ON THE COVER Incorporating both native ingredients and nostalgia, JAN Franschhoek offers thoughtful yet approachable fine dining – polished without pretension. Flip to page 42 to read more.
STYLE 18 28
58
Make this holiday season more indulgent than ever Beauty essentials for every summer soirée
GASTRONOMY 40 3 new culinary experiences to add to your bucket list 58 Fine wines and outdoor dining in the Cape Winelands
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TRAVEL 72
3 bespoke getaways across the country for the summer season
EDITOR Candice May 078 535 6583 12 | S u mm er 2023
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Giving the gift of
LUXURY
Make this holiday season more indulgent than ever ‘Tis the season for sparkles, champagne, festive cheer and, of course, gift-giving! That’s where we come in. This is the year to go that extra mile and spoil someone special this holiday season. With our curated opulent gift guide, we’ve got you covered when it comes to the best tried-andtested luxury gifts. There’s splurge-worthy skincare kits, eau-so-thoughtful perfumed presents, treats for indulgent nights in, high-end carry-on suitcases and sustainable sleepwear to live in all summer long. Happy holidays and happy shopping to you and yours!
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NUXE PRODIGIEUX NÉROLI LE PARFUM We might be biased, but you can never go wrong with the gift of scent. Your friend with a taste for luxury will fall head over heels for this new fragrance from NUXE. The packaging alone is enough to win Christmas, but the scent features everything we love about summer and has impressive staying power. What’s so masterful about it is that it’s like sunshine and poolside lounging all bottled up – however, it maintains a sense of undeniable luxury. Like warm, sun-drenched skin with the freshness of bergamot and bitter orange, and the chicness of verbena. R1,135 for 50ml from www. orleanscosmetics.co.za as well as select Woolworths, Foschini and Truworths stores
CAPE ISLAND GREEN CHRISTMAS COLLECTION It’s beginning to smell a lot like Christmas! A flickering candle or fragrance diffuser from Cape Island’s Green Christmas Collection is sure to set the seasonal mood. Nothing says cheer like the Celebration Classic Candle, featuring mouthwatering notes of cinnamon, clove, caramel, vanilla, chocolate, nut. Yum! It will have your home smelling like Christmas baking. Looking for a bit more than a paper crown to jazz up your festive table? The sought-after Christmas cracker filled with a Celebration Mini Diffuser is guaranteed to bring some joy and wonder to your table. R395 and R284 respectively from www.capeisland.co.za
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VEUVE CLICQUOT X SMEG For champagne lovers, you know you’ll need a gift with a little extra pop. While bubbly is produced all over the world, nobody makes it better than the French. Veuve Clicquot has partnered with SMEG to bring you a limited-release gift pack decked out in their signature golden-yellow hue. This revered champagne is the crème de la crème of any elegant affair. The end product is a sparkler that’s crisp with background aromas of brioche and vanilla. It’s the most playful gift around to make any present-giving opportunity a moment to celebrate. R849 from the Veuve Clicquot ICONS pop-up boutique at the V&A Waterfront (outside Louis Vuitton) from 1 to 23 December 2023 and select retailers
EXUVIANCE GLOW KIT The gift of a great skin day? Priceless. Of course, the route to gifting success is knowing your recipient’s skin type. However, don’t panic if you don’t have that knowledge. The Exuviance Glow Kit, a suits-all skincare set, will do the trick for maximum present points. The gift features the brand’s holy grail Glycolic Polish – to firm, smooth and brighten skin in a single step – and glow-boosting Bionic Tonic Pads with a complimentary stylish bag. It’s everything you could ever need for radiant skin and is the perfect intro to the clean beauty brand. Shine bright. R1,672 from www.dermastore.co.za
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KERÁSTASE NUTRITIVE LUXURY GIFT SET Look after those locks. Kerástase hair products are the gifts that keep on giving, so this bundle makes for a wish list-worthy present. The iconic Nutritive range delivers nourishing care designed to make hair irresistibly soft with a clean, elegant scent. Ideal for dry and sensitised hair, whether it’s thick or fine, it’s formulated with iris rhizome extract to shield hair from oxidation and extend nourishment. Glucids work to energise the hair fibre from the roots, while lipids keep hair healthy and tangle-free. Trust – she’ll have the happiest, shiniest hair yet. R1,235 from select salons
GATINEAU AGE BENEFIT REGENERATING COLLECTION Bring a smile to the face of the advanced skincare lover in your life. No one is going to say no to the gift of plump skin this year – and that’s exactly what the Gatineau Age Benefit Regenerating Collection delivers. This collection consists of the Age Benefit Youth Revitalising Oil-Serum, Advanced Eye Serum and Regenerating Cream, all packed in one full-size gift set. There aren’t many skincare gifts that manage to accomplish so much with just three products – yet Gatineau does just that. All in all, it’s everything you need to reduce fine lines, wrinkles and sagging. R2,895 from www.orleanscosmetics.co.za
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N3YH SUMMER PYJAMA SET Summer is officially here, and those balmy nights just aren’t made for flannels. There’s a lot to love about Cape Town-based sleepwear and activewear brand N3YH. Firstly, responsibility is key to its business, with careful attention paid to eco-friendly materials and the values of zero waste. In terms of fit, these matching sets with floral designs are perfectly suited for a quiet evening or a lazy Sunday morning. Regardless of your print preference, you simply can’t beat the feel of the so-soft, breathable bamboo fabric. This label deserves to be on your radar now! R1,600 from www.n3yh.com
THULE REVOLVE CARRY ON SPINNER Going somewhere this summer? Having the right luggage for yourself – or your jet-setting friend – is almost as important as the holiday wardrobe safely tucked inside. When it comes to a travel upgrade, it doesn’t get more iconic than Thule. Be the belle of the aisle with the Revolve Carry On Spinner that fits the aesthetic of the trip you’ve been planning for months. This sturdy carry-on has a premium design and plenty of thoughtful details, including an internal compression system, ultra-smooth wheels, a punctureresistant zipper, TSA locks and an integrated ID slot. R9,999 from Thule and www.thulestore.co.za
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professionally developed, for you.
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Real skin. Real results. Real you. Exuviance® Total Correct Vitamin C Tone Correcting Serum. Formulated to correct, even & brighten skin tone and protect from daily aggressors. This multi-action serum is formulated with clinically-proven antioxidants to correct and protect, revealing brighter and firmer-looking skin, and a more even tone and texture. Lightweight solution leaves skin soft and supple.
Exuviance Professional, the results are undeniable.
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RENEWAL
RENEW RETEXTURISE REJUVENATE GIVE YOUR SKIN MAXIMUM RENEWAL WITH THE ENDOCARE PURE RETINOL RANGE
• 30% reduction in wrinkles* • Moisturises, soothes & repairs skin barrier • Improves skin texture: smoother & softer surface • Reduces age spots and boosts radiance
*Zurko VV_ET-CRT_126_20-001. Evaluation of the efficacy and tolerance of a cosmetic regimen based on the application of topical retinoids. Genop Healthcare (Pty) Ltd. PO Box 3911, Halfway House, 1685, South Africa. Co. Reg. No.: 1984/011575/07. www.genop.co.za. 06/2023/PROMO/112 .
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What’s
in the
bag
Beauty essentials for every summer soirée Ah, the bliss of a summer break. Nothing compares to setting off on an eagerly anticipated trip. But with relaxation comes organisation. Luckily, we’ve got this covered – whether you’ll be dining al fresco, dancing your heart out, sipping champagne at sun-soaked wedding receptions or Instagramming endless pictures of you frolicking in the waves. From multitaskers to dry shampoo to a refreshing herbaceous scent, we’ve curated an edit of the easy-to-pack beauty products you’ll wish you had in your bag sooner. Happy summer!
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DOWN TO EARTH RECHARGE FACE WASH & SHAVING GEL If you choose to shave this summer, you’ll need a high-quality lubricant for the smoothest skin ever. Down to Earth’s Recharge Face Wash & Shaving Gel is loaded with plant extracts like aloe ferox, buchu and patchouli. It’s also designed with sensitive skin in mind. So, you immediately know it’s going to provide a super-close, comfortable shave and leave skin soft. No nicks, no stubble – and bonus points that the formula doesn’t clog up your razor. Don’t be surprised if the men in your household borrow this multitasking product and “forget” to give it back. R179 from www.downtoearthcare.co.za, www.faithful-to-nature.co.za, www.takealot.com and Wellness Warehouse
ENDOCARE AQUAFOAM
LUSH PANSY PERFUME
With summer in full swing, now more than ever a cleansing routine is crucial. Whether you have dry, combination or sensitive skin, a foam cleanser can penetrate the pores and help remove oil, debris and dirt. We’re big fans of this foambased product in Endocare’s line to refine congested pores without drying the skin. The foam is super-light and cloudlike, but still contains plenty of powerful actives – namely, SCA Growth Factor Technology, citric acid and Cantabrian Sea minerals such as zinc, manganese and selenium. The affordable price only adds to its appeal.
Sun-kissed skin in a bottle coming right up. All-natural, non-toxic essential oil perfumes – without any funny business like harmful chemicals – have come a long way. With floral notes of orange flower steeped in earthy rosemary and oakmoss, LUSH Pansy Perfume is a quick refresh for the busy beauty bee on the go. Not only can the 30ml chill conveniently in your bag, but it also costs a fraction of a typical perfume – so you can spritz away without buyer’s remorse! If you’re in the market for a versatile fragrance, you can’t go wrong with this one.
R290 from www.dermastore.co.za and www.skinmiles.com
R245 for 30ml or R520 for 100ml from from LUSH Fresh Handmade Cosmetics and www.lush.com
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ECO DIVA NATURAL DIVAGLOW SHIMMER For the girl on the go, this super-clever skin luminiser delivers glass skin in seconds. The handbag-friendly Eco Diva Natural DivaGlow Shimmer’s consistency is perfection – it doesn’t settle into lines, but it also doesn’t slip around on your skin. Instead, it stays dewy with just a touch of the most flattering shimmer. Wear it all over, use it to spotlight your eyelids or tap it strategically atop your cheekbones with a ring finger for a truly multidimensional face. True to the brand’s natural vibes, it’s 100% natural, organic, vegan, cruelty-free and pregnancy-safe. R190 from www.ecodiva.co.za
NEOSTRATA ENLIGHTEN 15% VITAMIN C + PHA SERUM Your daily routine isn’t complete without a vitamin C serum. If you want to combat age spots and pigmentation (and quickly), this new serum is your lifeline. A potent blockbuster of antioxidants – vitamin C, polyhydroxy acid, feverfew and green tea extract – penetrates quickly and deeply into the skin to deliver free radical-fighting benefits. A couple of drops of this serum every morning brings brighter, tighter-looking skin. Open pores and fine lines won’t stand a chance! In mere minutes your complexion is perkier, and the results speak for themselves. R805 from www.dermastore.co.za and www.skinmiles.com
BE BARE THE HEADMISTRESS SHAMPOO BAR Looking for a shampoo bar that’s vegan, crueltyfree and works on greasy hair? Try Be Bare, perfect for multitaskers and lazy mornings. Their sweetly scented Headmistress Shampoo Bar is something of a two-in-one, promising both deep-cleansing and scalp health benefits. It’s made from sweet orange, white grapefruit and petitgrain for deep and thorough rejuvenation, plus cacao butter to feed your tresses. We tend to use this shampoo bar followed by the Genie in a Bar Conditioner Bar and it works a treat – leaving strands squeaky clean but still hydrated. R109.95 from www.bebarelife.com, www.faithful-to-nature.co.za, www.takealot.com, www.superbalist.com as well as select Wellness Warehouse, Woolworths and Food Lover’s Market stores
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THAT’SO ON THE GO DARK The best self-tan formulas for the face make it simple to maintain a faux glow – and without the threat of harmful UV damage. If, like us, you’ve tested more than your fair share in the past, give this one a chance for smooth, streak-free sailing. The sugar cane extract-packed formula applies just like your favourite face mist to give you the golden glow of your dreams. We also love that it dries down within a few minutes, but the shade still deepens for three to four hours afterward. Spritz on and be sure to buff around the nose, eyes and mouth with a muslin cloth. R665 from www.haircair.co.za
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NIVEA 3IN1 Q10 ANTI-AGE CARE HAND CREAM The hands are among the mostneglected areas when it comes to sunscreen application. So yes, you should be using an SPFspiked hand cream! We love NIVEA’s affordable 3in1 Q10 AntiAge Care Hand Cream because it’s mixed with the good stuff (co-enzyme Q10 and nourishing ingredients) and protects hands with UV filters. All without leaving behind a greasy residue, which is very important to us. This product has brought life back and fixed our dry hands and cuticles. We put a huge dollop on our hands and rub the rest into our arms. R42.99 from Clicks and Dis-Chem Pharmacies
BIO SCULPTURE MINT MASK Get ready for sandal weather after a long season in boots and sneakers. For the ultimate summer pedicure, use this foot mask that will rehab your soles in no time. You can thank the potent elixir of peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils for the quick payoff – the whole process takes just 10 to 15 minutes. For an extended cooling sensation, leave it on for an additional 10 minutes. It gives your feet that bouncy, walking-on-air feeling that a good salon pedi does. Afterwards, use a pedicure cloth and sponge with warm water to gently remove the product. R130 for 75ml or R210 for 250ml from www.bio-sculpture.co.za and select salons
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SOFTLIPS ROSE TINT LIP CONDITIONER Beauty trends come and go, but lip tints will never go out of style. This is our go-to everyday lip balm for good reason. It leaves your natural lip colour slightly enhanced and your pout undeniably hydrated. It’s not by chance that Softlips has been around for decades … it’s really that good! Whether you’re going bare-faced or doing a full facebeat, this is the perfect finishing touch. We’re partial to the Rose shade – with one simple swipe, lips look rosy and blushed – but don’t sleep on the Bronze or Pearl either. You can put them on without a mirror and still look fabulous. R35.99 from Clicks and Dis-Chem Pharmacies
PUREOLOGY REFRESH & GO DRY SHAMPOO Along with a new blow-dryer, you might be on the lookout for the right dry shampoo to help you preserve your style. The Pureology Refresh & Go Dry Shampoo – specifically designed for colour-treated hair – is easy to use and requires little elbow grease to blend it into hair. Guaranteed to give limp and greasy hair an instant refresh, this can be used days in a row without building up on the scalp. It perks up volume and improves texture for a styled look that will last all night. The bottle doesn’t hurt either – it’s a fun addition to any bathroom vanity. R580 from www.retailbox.co.za, www.salon500.co.za and select salons
LAMELLE LUMINESCE RICH Nothing is more of a buzzkill than hyperpigmentation. One of the best ways to reduce the likelihood of developing unwanted dark spots is to scoop up Lamelle’s new Luminesce Rich – an indulgently rich cream we recommend to just about anyone asking for easy-to-incorporate products. This face cream is powered by antiinflammatory amino acids, plant extracts, vitamins, peptides, dexpanthenol and genetic modulators, which makes it extra effective. It’s rich and creamy but not heavy, so it works just as well during the day as a nighttime treatment. Oh-so worth it. R1,150 from www.dermastore.co.za and www.skinmiles.com
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Outdoors overlooking Nelson Mandela Square fountain, brothers Dennis and Allen have brought their vision of an unforgettable dining experience to life with the contemporary Trumps Grillhouse & Butchery. Not only can you enjoy the superior quality meat products at the Trumps restaurant, but you can now select your perfect cut of steak or meat from the all new bespoke butchery.
ADVERTORIAL
TRUMPS GRILLHOUSE & BUTCHERY Welcome to Trumps Grillhouse & Butchery, designed to satisfy the discerning palate. Our vision at Trumps is to create a dining experience that elevates any occasion – be it a celebratory event, a business meeting or a night out on the town – into an unforgettable memory.
The bold bull gracing the Trumps logo symbolises the strength and quality that define our service and the meat products we proudly serve. More than just a grillhouse, Trumps embodies a destination, an immersive experience and a way of life.
At Trumps Grillhouse & Butchery, you’ll discover modern, meticulously designed décor, an extensive wine cellar, a selection of premium aged whiskies and the highest quality meats. We also offer function rooms for those seeking a more personalised dining experience.
Founded in 1994, Trumps holds the distinction of being the first restaurant to open its doors on Nelson Mandela Square. Today, it stands as the square’s longest-standing establishment. Nestled in the heart of Sandton, what began as a modest family-owned eatery has evolved into an icon of excellence, style and customer satisfaction, serving patrons for nearly three decades.
Our team takes great pride in delivering superior-quality meat products and has expanded our offerings to include an on-site bespoke butchery. This means you can savour delectable meals at our restaurant or bring home our top-quality cuts and perfectly aged steaks – ideal for a traditional South African braai or a special homecooked feast.
Trumps is where quality meats and exceptional dining meet. We invite you to be a part of our culinary journey.
SINGLE MALT
DOUBLE FLAVOUR
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GIVE THE GIFT THAT’S
TWICE AS NICE
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ELEVATE your palate 3 new culinary experiences to add to your bucket list Are you the ultimate foodie? If you tailor every travel itinerary around the best gourmand adventures in a city – or base your dining choices on budding superstar chefs or wine-pairing dinner menus – then these extraordinary dining experiences are for you. Here, we’ve found three of the best new dining experiences that culinary connoisseurs can have in Cape Town. For those in search of the finest food and drinks served in the finest settings this summer, look no more. When it comes to the joy of food, Cape Town is truly your oyster.
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EDITOR’S PICK: NOSTALGIA IS ON THE MENU AT
JAN FRANSCHHOEK Investment: R2,850 per person for a seasonal eight-course menu including wine pairings The vision of Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, the first South African chef to achieve a Michelin star, is an ode to South Africa’s horticultural wonders. Incorporating both native ingredients and nostalgia, JAN Franschhoek offers thoughtful yet approachable fine dining – polished without pretension. Okay, it’s located a little further out of town than you might be used to. But in short, it’s worth the trip. The forces of nature seem irrepressible at this pop-up restaurant in the historical Veepos cottage on La Motte Wine Estate. Many sun-drenched vistas ensue as you drive past Franschhoek’s centuries-old vineyards and typical Cape Dutch architecture. You smell the sweet, herbal scent in the air long before you see the rolling lavender fields. JAN Group executive chef Antro Davel and head chef Lara van Heerden have made JAN Franschhoek what it is, digging deep into the ingredients and culture of South Africa to come up with something new. And they’ve succeeded, with wine pairings drawn from the finest selections of La Motte and JAN. Guests convene at the La Motte Manor House, which transports you back in time as you mingle over glasses of MCC and biltong lamingtons. Then, you’re
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chauffeured in a vintage 1972 Volkswagen 1600 Kombi across the road to a cottage amid sprawling lavender fields. All that greets you is a soft glow from within and the delicate wisps of smoke rising from the chimney, conjuring an enchanting Sunday afternoon ambience. Step inside, and you’ll find a long, candlelit dining table with seating for 18, a cosy fire crackling in the hearth, fragrant herbs dangling from the low reed ceiling and a pumpkin perched in the window. From the pumpkin tart and the trout and nasturtium choux to the snackable goat’s cheesecake, the first course evokes fond memories of Sunday family feasts. The culinary journey continues with a globe artichoke brimming with earthy fynbos grains and zesty spekboom – a celebration of flavours both familiar and refined. One of the joys of dining here is coming to grips with an entirely new vocabulary of ingredients and flavours; a new glossary of deliciousness. Sometimes it’s the familiar made unfamiliar. You’ve eaten mieliepap and you’ve drunk Carling Black Label. But to taste a ‘slap-pap-tjip’ of deep-fried pap with ‘zamalek’, black summer truffle and Parmesan is to taste them anew. And that’s before you even get to the kabeljou bathed in a haddock milk velouté, encircled by delicate ribbons of frozen apple and crowned with the intricate beauty of tête de moine cheese. It’s accompanied by warm, traditional South African mosbolletjies. Generous plates of lamb S u mme r 2 0 2 3 | 43
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shank, meanwhile, are designed for communal feasting alongside stampmielie and green bean risotto, sweet potato and pistachio glazed carrots, spiced butternut, saffron and sultana pickled onions, hibiscus pickled beetroot and fynbos pickles. To finish, you’re treated to an interactive cheese course, inviting guests to curate their own South African cheese pairings. Standout selections include the Belnori Forest Phantom, a chèvre veiled in ash with a fennel and ginger preserve; the Langbaken Karoo Blue, harmoniously paired with spiced chardonnay-poached pears; the Forest Hill Manchego, a mellow and subtly aged cheese complemented by brandy-stewed fruits; and the Klein Rivier Stanford, a delectable blend of sweetness, tanginess and nuttiness, served alongside grape and tomato jams. Dessert embraces simplicity, featuring almond cake with playful naartjie and milktart elements, adorned with a cinnamon doily. The meal concludes with ‘moerkoffie’ brewed over the open fire and a selection of mignardises. It’s safe to say that R2,850 a head for food and the matched wines is a lot of money in anyone’s language. But you can certainly see the labour on every plate. More to the point, JAN Franschhoek is truly a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. Season two is available only until 30 April 2024, so secure your reservation promptly to savour this limited-time culinary adventure. La Motte Wine Estate, R45, Franschhoek 021 876 9115 jan.franschhoek@la-motte.co.za www.janonline.com 44 | S u mm er 2023
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A GASTRONOMIC JOURNEY AROUND THE WORLD AT
SALON Investment: R1,400 per person for the ninecourse Journey menu with an optional beverage pairing for R980 (available for dinner from Tuesday to Saturday) or R695 per person for the five-course Explorer menu with an optional beverage pairing for R420 (available for lunch from Thursday to Saturday) All hail Cape Town’s coolest fine-dining restaurant, where all the chicest couples eat on date night. SALON looks like your standard swanky Cape Town restaurant from the outside. Housed within The Old Biscuit Mill’s silo building, it’s a traditional salon space with suitably contemporary décor – think Victorian-style floors, marble-topped bistro tables, Venetian plasterwork and retro filament bulbs, with the odd pop of colour and flash of gold. The ambience is reinforced by the Art-Deco design that ladens the square dimensions of the room. But a look at the menu, which resembles a culinary world map, quickly dispels any notion of ordinariness. The latest venture from Luke Dale Roberts – the chef-owner renowned for establishments such as The Pot Luck Club and
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The Test Kitchen Fledgelings in Cape Town as well as The Pot Luck Club and The Shortmarket Club in Joburg – is a fresh tasting-menu concept. His kitchens are synonymous with cooking that’s both cutting-edge and assuredly simplistic. So, when he announced this Woodstock stronghold, everyone sat up and took notice. Choose from two enticing options – the nine-course Journey menu or the streamlined five-course Explorer menu. For a three-hour sensory supper, we strongly recommend selecting the Journey menu with the optional beverage pairing. The food is big on narrative, kicking off with England – pub-style pork scratchings and a side of Guiness foam for dipping. SALON’s global culinary journey also brings you dishes like a Mexican tuna Caesar salad with smoked pineapple, tamale, chipotle dressing and coriander snow; a German Black Forest cake, crafted with foie gras, sour plum jelly and Parmesan layered between dark chocolate and vanilla shortbread; and Lebanese celeriac znoud el sit zhooshed up by the sweet tang of mutabal, grape and preserved lemon. For a taste of Singapore, there’s a rich and remarkable chilli dish with langoustine, tamagoyaki, chili sauce smoked S u mme r 2 0 2 3 | 47
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tomato jelly. And from France, indulge in duck Suzette, showcasing aged duck, citrus emulsion and duck jus. When it’s good, it’s excellent. Of course it is. However, the dish to stop you in your tracks is the Korean beef ‘kalbi’ – fillet well matched with ponzu, ssamjang, mirin tea and kimchi. There’s umami-rich chestnut and shiitake rice for stray juices too. Make the most of it. The pre-dessert, known as ‘tropica’ from the Philippines, features coconut and lime sorbet, litchi granita, lemongrass jelly and pineapple foam. It’s one of the best things we’ve had for ages; creamy and light, but with a perfectly judged texture. The team pulls the European-style salon concept together beautifully – you might even forget the quirky setup when you’re served the final course, an unconventional twist on the classic malva pudding from South Africa. With Jerusalem artichoke, amasi ice cream, coffee Ultra Mel and pear, it will leave you feeling satisfyingly snoozy as you exit after a few decadent hours inside. Best of all, as much consideration is given to the beer and cocktail pairings as the wine. The mixologists’ jalapeño and pineapple tequila cocktail will ensure that the night begins on a spicy note. SALON hits the sweet spot between the full Luke Dale Roberts experience and something a little more fun. . 1st floor, silo building, The Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Road, Woodstock 087 093 5890 hello@salonct.co.za www.salonct.co.za 48 | S u mm er 2023
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SUSTAINABLY FISHED FOOD FROM LOCAL COASTS AT GALJOEN Investment: R850 per person for dinner (18h45 from Tuesday to Saturday) or R650 per person for lunch (12h30 from Thursday to Saturday) Catch of the day? Dining in Cape Town’s cool East City district has a new champion with restaurateurs Neil Swart and Anouchka Horn’s newest project, Galjoen. Just a short walk from their acclaimed restaurant Belly of the Beast sits a 30-seat venue that’s high on quality and detail. While the attraction gets you in the door, it’s the flavours of the sea and in-season vibrant produce that will hook you back for more. Galjoen’s kitchen is run by a stellar team headed by head chef Isca Stoltz, who’s created an ever-changing menu rich in seafood for a truly hyperlocal experience. The interiors of the double-volume space by Studio NAN have a wholesome feel that befits the menu to follow. The nauticalthemed décor is subtle, so that dining here is a meditative exercise with minimal sensory distractions. Balcony balustrades may remind you of a ship’s gangway or a fishing net, while carefully crafted woodwork above the tables resembles a ship’s hull
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and ceramic light fittings imitate traditional buoys used by local fishing boats. There’s also a fisheye mosaic, a captivating mural by artist Adele van Heerden that draws diners to the balcony as well as bricks on the pass that shimmer like the green and black scales of a galjoen underwater. Local ceramicist Amelia Jacobs is the creator of the bricks, light fittings and custom crockery. Remember to glance upwards, where the ‘barnacles’ under the mezzanine floor give the impression that diners are submerged beneath the waves. There’s a delightful lack of pretentiousness – just an ambient setting with good service and even better food. Sustainability is at the forefront of the menu at Galjoen. Chef Isca has gathered the best ingredients from top small-scale suppliers to create a five-course tasting menu that strikes the balance between the refined and the conscious. The menu relies on the day’s catch, so embrace the unexpected and relish the authentic flavours of South S u mme r 2 0 2 3 | 51
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African seas. To give a taste of the flavours we enjoyed for lunch – to start, a snack of tempura battered onion rings accompanied by hake mousse, Saldanha Bay oysters waiting with their succulence for us to pay attention to them and a crisp glass of white wine. Moving on to the next course, we continued with two varieties of bread (our favourite being the one prepared in their charcoal oven) complemented by smoked snoek and mussel pâtés. The yellowfin tuna sashimi in a punchy dressing with roasted garlic aioli, spring onion microgreens and chive flowers presented a somewhat less interesting taste – but it prepared our palate for the biggest hit, the fish of the day served with Greek pasta salad. Straight from the sea to our plate, the pan-fried angelfish was pillowy soft and perfectly flaky. Just what you want from a piece of angelfish. Vanilla frozen yoghurt with grilled pineapple and chef Isca’s fun treat, Coco Pops s’mores – their delicate chocolate exteriors oozing marshmallow – provided a supreme finish. The wine list features producers who have a similar ethos to Galjoen in terms of making premium, quality wines from well-tended vineyards. Notably, the bythe-glass choices are limited. Whether it’s a special night out with your nearest and dearest or a memorable experience with friends, this is a lovely gathering of the fruits of the sea. 99 Harrington Street, District Six, Cape Town 079 093 0559 eat@galjoencpt.co.za www.galjoencpt.co.za
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Established in 2004 by restaurant extraordinaire, Naldo & Victor Goncalves, famous for its seafood, Pigalle Restaurant is situated in Sandton, in the Michelangelo Towers, a prominent structure in the Sandton skyline and Bedfordview, Village View Shopping Centre, in close proximity to Johannesburg’s international airport (OR TAMBO). The menu hits all the right notes comprising of fresh seafood and classic dishes with Portuguese flair. The perfect choice for an intimate dinner, catchup with friends or a special occasion. PIGALLE BEDFORVIEW has recently undergone an extensive renovation, with the unique character of Pigalle carried through in it’s design in which the concept of “Paris by Night “is expressed. The experience of the space and the interior design is a combination of timeless elegance, marrying old and new with luxurious modern materials and rich colours. The materialisation of the interior décor and furnishing plays an important role in the design. The interior evokes a moody yet tranquil atmosphere to give the space a classic contemporary feel. The restaurant is divided into three main seating areas which lends itself to areas of intimacy and privacy as well as more relaxed social spaces. The main dining space is openvent bar area and open view into the kitchen adds both energy and movement to the experience. The new external terrace is one of the main features furnished with custom lighting and hanging plants. The energy can be seen from the streets and allows customers to be a part of something interesting creating a true ambience that completes the restaurant.
CONTACT US BEDFORDVIEW Villiage View Shopping Centre, Van Buuren Road, Bedfordview, 2007 011 450 2242 bedfordview@pigalle.joburg SANDTON UO9, Michelangelo Towers, Maude Street, Sandton, 2196 011 884 8899 sandton@pigalle.joburg
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The
perfect
pair
Fine wines and outdoor dining in the Cape Winelands We love to make the most of the warmest months by eating outside. When the weather plays along, alfresco dining in the Cape Winelands is a real treat. There’s something rather magical about dining at one of the best outdoor restaurants, where you can soak up the sunshine and get lost in the greenery – or scenery – that surrounds your table. Lazy, indulgent and just what we’re in need of! From sunny courtyards and botanical greenhouses to shady outdoor terraces, check the forecast and head to one of these for a fun and breezy time.
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LA PETITE FERME RESTAURANT An endlessly glamorous spot for garden dining The magic combination of picturesque vineyard views and a spectacular mountain backdrop. If a restaurant could make you weak in the knees, La Petite Ferme Restaurant would have diners dropping left and right. Come warm weather, La Petite Ferme’s flower-lined garden transforms into an intimate destination for lunch and dinner. Idyllic for long lunches in the sunshine with friends, it promises a slice of calm – and delicious food. The two or threecourse menu (which changes seasonally) offers an array of elegant dishes on bespoke ceramics, made with fresh and well-sourced ingredients. From starters to dessert, there’s something memorable for everyone to love. The crispy squid is one of the standout starters – a medley of pickled ginger, salmon roe, a ponzu and white wine sphere, pea purée, microgreens, Brussels sprouts leaves, rooibos tea and vanilla sauce, and a squid ink coral tuille. We also loved the finely balanced curried beef samosa, with spiced apple chutney, baby leaves, coriander and a coconut curry reduction. Enjoy alongside a bottle of La Petite Ferme Sauvignon Blanc – a crisp, exuberant and vibrant wine.
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Big-hitting mains include the profoundly satisfying phyllo pastry-wrapped rolled lamb shoulder with mint yoghurt, roasted aubergine purée, jus, dukkah, confit tomatoes and a microgreen salad. Another hit is the perfectly cooked Franschhoek trout served with a side of warm three-bean and bacon salad, fennel bulbs, salt and vinegar crisps, trout caviar and white wine velouté plus a wedge of lemon for squeezing. Every dish sings. Finish on a sugar high; the Cape brandy pudding and ‘study of chocolate’ dark chocolate mousse are worth sharing. Open Monday to Sunday from 12h00 to 15h30 and Monday to Friday from 18h30 to 20h20 La Petite Ferme, Lambrechts Road (Franschhoek Pass), Franschhoek 021 001 6690 reception@lapetiteferme.co.za www.lapetiteferme.co.za S u mme r 2 0 2 3 | 61
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RYKAART’S A celebration of Stellenbosch’s bountiful fresh produce Bucolic and brilliant. With the philosophy of simple, sustainable food – from the very land on which they operate – Alex and Ella Rykaart are ready to take on their newest venture. Rykaart’s, the eponymous eatery that was once situated in the heart of Stellenbosch, has found a new home with country charm in spades on Longridge Wine Estate. Few places beat the biodynamic wine farm’s expansive views of Table Mountain. You’ll enjoy a three-course set menu that’s served family style and changes monthly, either under the trees or inside. Served by impeccably trained staff, the menu comes to life when eaten on pleasantly old-school botanical tablecloths amid well-tended organic herb and vegetable gardens. Diners can expect veggies plucked straight from the on-site gardens. This sustainable approach, which lets nature take the lead in the kitchen, makes for creative and delicious dining. Our favourite plates included the simple yet surprising carrot risotto with roasted carrots, carrot greens and shaved Parmesan; the garden salad with a nori nut dressing that picked up other flavours superbly;
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the carefully constructed grass-fed beef sirloin with chimichurri, red wine sauce and a garden’s worth of edible flowers; and the corn on the cob smothered in chipotle butter and onion skin ash. Dessert was also phenomenal – a flawless almond cake, served with lightly whipped cream and topped with caramelised pineapple, toasted coconut and candied almonds. The lush style of the Longridge Ou Steen Chenin Blanc, with its notes of orange blossom and honey nougat, pairs wonderfully. In the end, you might be so full you can’t move – but what’s the rush with a view this beautiful? Open for lunch from Wednesday to Sunday and for dinner on Friday and Saturday Longridge Wine Estate, Helderberg Pad (off R44), Stellenbosch 021 855 2005 rykaarts@longridge.co.za www.longridge.co.za
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RISTORANTE PASTA PASTA The most made-for-Instagram trattoria you’ll ever see Spice Route Destination’s new Ristorante Pasta Pasta goes above and beyond your average neighbourhood trattoria when it comes to ambience. The restaurant isn’t entirely outside, but the cosy indoor dining room spills out onto an open-air space, where bright pink bougainvillea climbs up the walls and a small balcony peeks out over Wilderer Distillery. The setting is lush and romantic, bathed in warm, golden light. Sit down at a red-andwhite checkered tablecloth and order up antipasti and something from the reasonably priced wine list. Our favourite ever-green dish on the menu is the caprese salad (call it the caprese di bufala if you’re feeling fancy) with buffalo mozzarella, thick-sliced ripe tomatoes and basil leaves, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Or you could start with something like the vitello tonnato – a classic Italian starter made with veal silverside and served chilled with a creamy tuna and anchovy mayonnaise-style sauce –
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then move onto a jumbo portion of spaghetti carbonara finished off with egg yolks. The pasta menu also offers the likes of al dente aglio olio e peperoncino with garlic, oil, red pepper flakes and prawns; gnocchi in a deeply savoury sage-butter sauce; rigatoni lounging provocatively on a bed of ragù alla bolognese with carrots, onions, celery, whole peeled tomatoes and fresh herbs; and creamy farfalle dressed with gypsy ham, brown mushrooms and garden peas. Pure joy. Once you’ve eaten pudding – we had the house-made tiramisu, combining espresso-soaked ladyfingers, lightly sweetened mascarpone cream and grappa – carry on your afternoon with an aperitivo. The Aperol spritz is excellent and makes for a refreshingly bitter-sweet drink. . Open Monday to Sunday from 08h00 to 17h00 Spice Route Destination, Suid-Agter-Paarl Road, Paarl 021 863 4367 076 261 4693 pastapasta@wilderer.co.za www.spiceroute.co.za
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MURATIE FARM KITCHEN Tranquil dining under mature trees Muratie Farm Kitchen – a farmhouse dating back to 1685 – isn’t somewhere you’d stumble upon. Tucked into the top of the laidback Knorhoek Valley, this spot feels like a real local’s secret. Prepare yourself to rumble down a country road and feel certain you missed a turn. Of all the eerie places in the Cape Winelands, there’s something extra spooky about Muratie Wine Estate’s famous tasting room, where the windows are draped in thick cobwebs and wine bottles caked in layers of dust. The cobwebs and dust don’t suggest poor housekeeping – instead, they signify the passage of time. Adorning the wall is a calendar, serving as a reminder of the year 1977 when the cobwebs first began to accumulate. But the weather is finally warming up, and you know what that means – it’s time for alfresco dining. Muratie Farm Kitchen’s tall trees, cobbled walkways, dappled light and rustic simplicity make for a meal of rare loveliness. Don’t expect flounces and frills – these are simple dishes, executed well with ingredients at their peak. A starter of burrata, beetroot, exotic tomatoes and basil dressing is a restrained
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showstopper, while the springbok carpaccio with fried onion and mustard mayo is a major savoury mouthful. For mains, slow-braised Karoo lamb shank with jus, creamed potatoes, caramelised carrots and seasonal vegetables is the star of the show. Staff are known for being a perfect blend of attentive and personal. They’re only too happy to share the stories behind certain dishes and wines. Always save room for sweets – the Belgian chocolate tart and vanilla panna cotta are both eye-rollingly good. Come for Sunday lunch when the atmosphere is at its most relaxed. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 09h00 to 15h30 Muratie Wine Estate, Knorhoek Road, Koelenhof, Stellenbosch 021 865 2330 dine@muratie.co.za www.muratie.co.za
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ADVERTORIAL
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CAPE COUNTRY ROUTES Uncover the hidden gems of the Cape with a trio of 3-Night Packages
SIGN UP NOW FOR CAPE COUNTRY ROUTES LOYALTY PROGRAM Individuals/couples - R200 per annum Families - R500 per annum for great discounts and value-adds with participating CCR accommodation and activity providers www.loyalty.capecountryroutes.com bookings@capecountryroutes.com Tel: 021 023 3611 www.capecountryroutes.com
TIP OF AFRICA Agulhas | Arniston | De Hoop • Bed & Breakfast at Agulhas Country Lodge & Arniston Spa Hotel • Lunch at Ganbaai’s Great White House Restaurant • Entry to the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary • Dinner, Bed & Breakfast at De Hoop Collection & Bird Walk at De Hoop From R5 545
BUSH & BEACH Sibuya Game Reserve | Jeffreys Bay • 2 nights (fully inclusive) at Sibuya Game Reserve & boat transfers to and from camp • Bush walking, afternoon & morning game drive, fishing & canoeing at Sibuya • 1 night at Supertubes Guest House (Bed & Breakfast) From R11 600
WEST COAST AFFAIR Paternoster l Darling • 2 nights at Gonana Guesthouse, Paternoster (Bed & Breakfast) • A guided Wow E-Bikes Paternoster Tour • 1 night at Darling Lodge in Darling (Bed & Breakfast) • Entry to Darling Mystery Trail and Museum From R4 090
Package prices are per person sharing
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Luxe
hideaways
3 bespoke getaways across the country for the summer season We’re all hankering for that much-needed summer holiday. Whether you’re after barefoot luxury or an adventure with plenty of pampering, there’s nothing quite like an indulgent break. We did the legwork for you – here, we round up three editor-approved upscale holiday hotspots to add to your travel itinerary this summer. Bringing you every bit the elevated experience the discerning traveller seeks, these five-star destinations promise serious summer glamour. Set that out-of-office email and pack your bags – luxe bliss is just a reservation away.
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NATURE, DISCONNECTION AND STILLNESS AT BOSCHENDAL’S
COW SHED COTTAGE
This is one of the most restful retreats we’ve been to in a long time. Set among acres of romantic countryside, Boschendal’s new Cow Shed Cottage has everything you need for a rural escape – trailing greenery, fragrant overgrown gardens and uninterrupted views from every angle. It can only be described as true rustic luxury. The clean, bright and breezy two-bedroom cottage epitomises the character of Boschendal, bringing the feel of the gardens inside. There’s an inherently homely feel to each room, despite its grandeur. The designers clearly knew the selling points. Interiors are tactile and sophisticated with pale wood, leather and stone. A spacious living area – where natural elements blend in with an infinite palette of earthy tones and the fire flickers away – leads to a terrace dappled with sunlight that falls on the chairs in the morning. Likewise, the bedrooms are spoiling without being over-td, letting the large windows which frame 74 | S u mm er 2023
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the vineyards and mountains outside become the focal point. Both come complete with supreme-size beds, low-lit lamps, fluffy robes, slippers and all essential amenities. The main bedroom, however, comes with some of the best views of all and a walk-in wardrobe that’s bigger than your average Cape Town bathroom. The bathrooms themselves are vast and open-plan, adding to the overall sense of fresh design and modern touches. But the sage green kitchen in the cottage? Hands down, our favourite! The verdant hue pairs wonderfully with Le Creuset cookware, pastel SMEG kitchen appliances, wood tones and minimal but beautiful decorative elements for a farmhouse-inspired look. Visiting the Boschendal Farm Shop for fresh ingredients and whipping up a meal in the kitchen is a must-do. Elsewhere, sunset rituals at the Cow Shed Cottage are nothing short of ethereal. Sink into the chairs, take in the views and sip on Boschendal MCC as the sun casts ambers and oranges across the sky. Exploring breakfast at The Deli? You can expect locally roasted coffee, freshly pressed juices, homemade pastries, seasonal fruits, eggs fresh from the farm, vanilla and coconut oats, smashed avocado on toast and smoked trout benedict. If the best food in the world could be both decadent and full of farm-to-fork goodness, this is it! Boschendal also offers an array of activities to complement your stay, including wine tastings under their iconic oak tree, picnics on the
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lush lawns, small plates dining at The Werf Restaurant, a lively Friday night market, an art gallery in the historic Manor House, tours of the revitalised Werf Food Garden, guided horse riding, and various hiking, running and mountain biking trails. The Cow Shed Cottage is the place for those who wish to soak up the country air and feel immersed in absolute peace – without missing out on any of the fun. While the cottage is conveniently located just a quick drive from the heart of the farm, the path leading to it is rugged, so we recommend using a 4x4 vehicle for ease of access. Boschendal, R310 Pniel Road, Groot Drakenstein, Franschhoek 021 870 4271 accommodation@boschendal.co.za www.boschendal.com
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THE PURSUIT OF SLOW LIVING AT
THE MANOR AT SAMARA KAROO RESERVE If you’re looking to get away from the crowds and soak in the pristine beauty of the Great Karoo, The Manor at Samara Karoo Reserve will do just the trick. This desertmodernist property exudes charm in spades. Ideal for both honeymooners and families, the villa offers four suites available for individual bookings or exclusive use. Booking the villa exclusively grants guests access to a private vehicle, guide, chef and host, as well as a customised itinerary of activities. Suites are spacious and impressive with luxurious linens, heated bathroom floors, dual vanities and generous bathtubs. The standout element for us was the little patio with rattan chairs – perfect for spotting free-roaming wildlife patrolling the vast semi-arid expanse. Décor throughout features khakis, browns and subtle earth tones to match the exterior environs, with natural fabrics and furniture. Also worth mentioning, since you’re in such a remote setting, is that Wi-Fi is free and fast no matter where you’re standing. There’s plenty of room to spread out when the days get too hot, from a 21-metre infinity pool to enveloping armchairs inside pointed out towards the sparse flora. You won’t fall short of activities – there’s something for everyone. The usual game drives and walking safaris are available, but you can also spend your days cheetah tracking, mountain biking with the joy of bringing your own bike, partaking in afternoon tea, unwinding with a glass of your favourite wine in the lounge or enjoying a picnic outdoors with the crisp mountain air for company. For something special, guests can opt for a dining experience under a starlit sky at the hands of a personal
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chef. The Manor at Samara Karoo Reserve is all-inclusive, meaning all meals and local beverages are included. (SADC rates are inclusive of meals, with beverages at an extra cost.) The food is great, if over-portioned. Lunch and dinner ranges from beer-battered chicken tenders to cauliflower and pear soup, venison steaks, lemon and herb line fish, and Amarula and dark chocolate tart. Breakfast is the star – sipping Karoo filter coffee and eating a stack with crispy bacon, poached eggs and sautéed mushrooms piled high on a plate is the ideal way to start your day. Because there are only a maximum of eight guests at any given time, service is personal and focused. At each meal, the manager will stop by your table to check in on what you want to do that day. Samara Karoo Reserve really knows service and how to make their guests’ stay memorable. It’s a playground for outdoor adventure, while also offering ultimate detachment from the outside world. You can’t ask for
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more. Our pro tip: Enhance your stay at The Manor by adding a night or two at the newly opened Plains Camp. Here, you’ll find a back-to-nature experience like no other, where there’s no Wi-Fi, no electricity and no high-tech distractions. Instead, you’ll discover an ecoluxe tented camp, boasting four compact tents with ensuite bathrooms, that can accommodate up to eight. In the reserve’s farthest reaches, Plains Camp promises breathtaking views and abundant Big Five wildlife. Petersburg Road (off the R63 to Pearston), Graaff-Reinet 049 940 1111 reservations@samara.co.za www.samara.co.za
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A COASTAL ESCAPE WITH A DOSE OF VITAMIN SEA AT THE OLD RECTORY HOTEL & SPA Sun, surf and serious style. Nowhere does hip boutique hotels quite like this part of the world. The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa is a grand example of how Plettenberg Bay, one of our favourite warm-weather paradises, draws on its past while looking towards the future. A unique architectural gem built by the Dutch East India Company in 1777 to house troops, this thoughtful project has breathed new life into its buildings – transforming them into a delightful collection of rooms, a restaurant and a spa. Originally serving as a hub for supervising timber storage in the Old Timber Shed, it later became a rectory for St Peters Church in 1869. For 70 years, five successive rectors called it home until the construction of the present rectory in 1939. The hotel has just 18 rooms, indubiously filled with a roaming set of travellers – all of whom appreciate high design, but more importantly, covet the slower atmosphere of the beach town itself. With the hotel lying just a stone’s throw away from Hobie Beach, what more could you want? Its interior gives guests a taste of coastal style. A perpetual sanctuary weaved with the colours and plants of the lush outdoors, the hotel’s aesthetic is both
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charming and practical. A punch of colour here and there – from striking red to beachy teal and warm yellows – adds a fun touch to an otherwise reserved room. Closets are capacious and beds are extra-large with super-crisp sheets, while bathrooms are equipped with tubs and showers. Everything points to the spectacular view of the infinity pool. The pool and deck are constructed around a centuries-old milkwood tree, and at the pool’s edge stands one of Marieke Prinsloo-Rowe’s Swimmer Girl sculptures. During the summer, the pool acts as a sort of outdoor agora, as well as the perfect place to have a dip if you haven’t managed to brave the waves. As for dining, at 1777 Restaurant, food matters. The dining room is a casually elegant space that combines stone walls and exposed beam ceilings. The entire menu tempts but get stuck into the kataifi prawns and the truly excellent beef
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fillet. Prepared and seared just right, it’s an absolute showstopper. The memorable breakfast spread includes a DIY mimosa and Bloody Mary Bar. Also indulgent: A quiet drink in the lush central garden and tastings at Kay & Monty Vineyards, the hotel’s sister property in The Crags. Finally, the extensive menu of facials, body massages and sensory rituals is a welcome addition to the property at The Old Rectory Spa. QMS Medicosmetics products and those by local brand Healing Earth are used in all treatments. But the service here is what makes The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa stand out in the crowd of hotels in Plett. Staff are local, friendly and go above and beyond to please. They know a thing or two about pampering – the nightly turndown service makes sinking into each cloudlike mattress appealing whatever time you walk through the door. You’ll be well-rested and energised by the end of your stay. 2 Bull Street, Plettenberg Bay 044 533 1201 reservations@rareearth.co.za www.rareearth.co.za 84 | S u mm er 2023
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A NEW CHAPTER
IN T H E JOU R N EY O F H A Z EN DAL
As South Africa’s summer season gets into full swing there’s a buzz of excitement across Cape Town and the Western Cape. And perhaps nowhere more so than Hazendal Estate in the Stellenbosch Winelands, where this historic Cape farm recently unveiled The Hazendal boutique hotel, transforming this elegant estate into a truly multifaceted Winelands destination. The Hazendal boutique hotel opens with 34 rooms and suites, and the remarkable design has ensured the new hotel blends effortlessly into the existing heritage architecture of this storied Cape estate. With a beautiful location overlooking a picturesque reservoir, the whitewashed walls and pitched roofs pay tribute to the rich history of the farm – one of the oldest in the Cape – all while creating a contemporary country destination for leisure and corporate travellers. And there’s certainly a room to suit every type of traveller too. For that special occasion, the hotel’s flagship Presidential Suite offers indulgent levels of comfort, with a spacious living area spilling out onto a large outdoor deck complete with a private jacuzzi. Spacious Junior Suites boast private terraces overlooking landscaped gardens and manicured vineyards of the Bottelary Hills, while entry-level Superior Rooms gaze out through trellised jasmine across the sun-splashed central courtyard that’s home to the gorgeous hotel swimming pool.
These are ideal if you love to roll out of bed and onto a sun lounger! Inter-leading rooms and suites offer an array of options for families, with an in-house cinema room to keep young ones entertained too. Whichever room or suite you’re in, you’ll find a common thread of inspired décor and design, from the bespoke artworks scattered across the public and private spaces to the thoroughly modern curated aesthetic. Across the hotel’s rooms and suites, the décor takes its cue from the surrounding Winelands, with a palette of natural tones and textures inspiring the thoroughly opulent accommodation. That sense of contemporary indulgence informs every corner of the hotel, from the serene wellness spa, offering a range of bespoke treatments using local and global products, to the contemporary dining experience at The Restaurant. Here Executive Chef Michélle Theron’s concise menu of elevated bistro-style cuisine finds inspiration in the surrounding Winelands, infusing local flavours and a sense of seasonality into the offering. Elegant tables spill out onto the courtyard terrace, offering a magical destination for al fresco summer dining. And you’ll certainly be spending plenty of time al fresco at Hazendal, whether it’s suntanning at the pool, playing on the Padel court (complimentary for in-house guests) or honing your swing out on the 18-hole par-3 golf course. There’s also the Putting Park and the Wonderdal edutainment centre, which offers enormous fun for younger guests. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head for The Deli, with tables scattered in the shade of the historic Threshing Circle. Or book a summer picnic basket and find a quiet spot amid the farm’s landscaped fynbos gardens. Wine tastings are hosted in the elegant Wine Lounge, or out on the dappled terrace gazing across the historic werf. Though the farm dates back more than 300 years, Hazendal is a timeless destination, a place at ease with its heritage but imbued with a sense of contemporary luxury. And while it’s long been popular to pop out for the day, the opening of The Hazendal makes a longer sojourn a must this summer.
For more information or to make a booking contact bookings@hazendal.co.za
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A CELEBRATION OF LOVE A CELEBRATION OF A UNION A CELEBRATION OF THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF AFRICA
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