Embrace the chill COMFORT FOODS to keep you warm in the Cape Winelands Must-have SKIN SAVIOURS
A comfortable 90-minute drive from Cape Town, and nestled at the foot of majestic mountains, which are snow-clad in winter, awaits The Tulbagh Hotel. Known for our warm hospitality, our hotel offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. We are a great base to explore the historic town of Tulbagh, its museums, art galleries, charming coffee shops, and renowned vineyards.
Website: tulbaghhotel co za
Directly connected to the iconic Hyde Park Corner mall offering easy access to the best of Sandton, in the heart of Johannesburg’s most exclusive neighbourhood, the Southern Sun Hyde Park hotel combines service excellence with a warm welcome. For leisure or business, romantic escapes or city breaks, our hotel is one of the top rated in Sandton.
The hotel’s 132 well-appointed en-suite rooms feature comfy beds and a range of amenities including free uncapped WiFi, a mini-bar, flatscreen with DStv, 18-hour room service, porter service, and more. Guests can relax on our 8th floor rooftop pool deck, workout in the gym, or discover Gauteng with our Gautrain station shuttle. Authentic Italian cuisine is served in LUCÉ restaurant, sundowners with an exceptional view are best enjoyed at our Island Bar, and for the discerning patron the Whiskey & Cigar Bar has an exceptional choice of Cuba and Scotland’s finest exports. Three adaptable venues with space for up to 120 delegates, self-service workstations, and an unbeatable Hyde Park location ensure our hotel is well-equipped for business.
Join our frequentGuest rewards programme - sign up is FREE and easy – sign-in and book direct for the best rates.
• Indulge in a decadent breakfast experience as you relax and unwind with family and friends. Treat yourselves to a lavish à la carte breakfast served with a bottle of Moët & Chandon Nectar Impérial* in the Island Bar from 09h30 to 11h00.
• Reservations require a minimum of 4 guests, with a maximum of 20 guests per booking.
*1 bottle of Moët & Chandon Nectar Impérial for every 4 people
with a view Valid till 30 March 2025
• Show the one you love how much you care with a romantic Italian inspired date night at Southern Sun Hyde Park, one of Joburg’s most stylish hotels.
• Enjoy a relaxing evening with a three-course dinner complemented by a bottle of Italian red or white wine at LUCÉ restaurant, for only R1,020 per couple.
• Extend the romance with an indulgent romantic package for R2,675 for 2 people sharing.
Package includes:
• A night’s accommodation in a Standard Room
• A 3-course dinner with wine at LUCÉ
• A delicious buffet breakfast
Offer valid from 1 May 2024 to 31 March 2025
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GEMINI Nourishing Nail Polish available at www.biosculpture.co.za
BIOGEL available at leading salons and spas
The sublime natural beauty of the Breedekloof Valley is matched by the stealth-luxe of BOSJES – set on 300 hectares of fruit and olive groves about an hour’s drive from Cape Town. The setup here isn’t just inspired by its location; integrating with the landscape is the entire point. Flip to page 70 to read more.
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Elizabeth Arden makes selling one tube of Eight Hour Cream every 30 seconds look easy. But when it comes to winter skincare routine essentials, producing lightning-in-a-bottle successes with staying power is anything but. There’s a whole lot of noise out there and it can be tricky to separate the magic from the marketing. We try out a myriad of new products each year to keep up with the buzziest launches, so it takes a very special product to make it into our routine time and time again. These are the holy-grail picks that we go back to every damn time.
While dry skin seems inevitable in winter given the cold temperatures, biting winds and indoor heating, they’re not the only reason our skin feels tight and looks dull right now. The key culprits might surprise you. Dry skin signifies an issue with the skin barrier. Temporary dryness could be caused by a number of factors: Cold and dry weather, too many hot showers, using acne treatments and retinol, over-washing and hormonal changes may all contribute to a complexion that feels drier than the Sahara Desert. If your actual skin type is dry, however, it’s most likely determined by your genetics or even an underlying skin condition. Skin issues such as psoriasis and eczema can make your skin more prone to dryness. So, a moisturiser for dry skin that ticks all the boxes is hard to come by. And yet, Environ’s science-backed and ever-luxurious Super Moisturiser formula manages to do so, replenishing lost moisture and filling in the gaps to restore optimal function. No level of dryness is too severe for this cream. It’s one of the moisturisers we always have on rotation in the throes of winter for its deeply nourishing texture and instant layer of hydration. This reliable favourite, featuring a revamped formula for its upcoming 10-year anniversary, combines humectants to draw water into the skin and emollients to soften. It’s also a great cream for those with irritable, sensitised skin as it supports a compromised skin barrier. The Environ Super Moisturiser truly feels like a blanket of long-lasting moisture, and the velvety texture couldn’t feel more luxurious or nourishing. But remarkably, it’s not overly heavy or greasy. The pillowy white cream is fragrancefree, has a smooth texture and spreads easily over the skin. Since it sinks in quickly (nothing is going to slide around on top of this formulation), it makes for a winning daytime moisturiser, too. We’ve noticed that our skin has transformed from looking dull and dry to visibly more hydrated and less irritated. Immediately after application, our normally dry, dehydrated skin looks juicy with moisture. With continued use, you can expect a stronger and more resilient skin barrier. We’ve been using the cream consistently for the past month and have experienced all of the above. Even in the depths of winter! What’s even better is how seamlessly we’ve been able to work this cream into our routine. It layers well under sunscreen and makeup without pilling, and it doesn’t leave stains on our pillows at night. We like to dot the product onto our forehead, both cheeks and chin, and then really take some time to massage the formula in after our toner and serum has sunk in.
R590 for 50ml from select salons
One might argue that Gatineau’s best product is the Peeling Expert Pro-Radiance Anti-Ageing Gommage. While that is a cult favourite, we have to side with the Age Benefit Melting Cleansing Elixir. If cleansing balms had their version of the Olympic Games, this would end with a podium finish. It expertly dissolves waterproof mascara and apocalypse-proof lipstick while imparting softness.
R895 from www.orleanscosmetics.co.za as well as select Woolworths, Truworths and Dis-Chem stores
We always layer moisturising products in the cold months, as one is never enough. We’ve been using Filorga’s new Time-Filler Essence religiously morning and night. This anti-ageing prep step is designed to penetrate the surface layers of the skin in order to boost hydration and unlock your most luminous complexion yet. It has a watery formula that doesn’t clog or irritate fussy skin.
R750 from www.skinmiles.com, www. caretobeauty.com, www.cosmetology.co.za and www.absoluteskin.co.za
When it comes to managing weather-induced sensitivity and redness, we recommend opting for a gentle cleanser with moisture-replenishing ingredients, like the Suki Suki Naturals Buchu Moringa Milky Cleanser. This cream cleanser is infused with a trio of detoxifying buchu leaf extract, brightening moringa leaf extract and plant-based hyaluronic acid for your best complexion yet.
R430 from www.sukisukinaturals.com and ARC Store
Winter dryness has nothing on the Bioderma Atoderm Shower Oil. This oil-based formula washes daily grime down the drain while providing much-needed conditioning benefits and leaving the skin delicately scented. As you massage it onto your skin, you’ll notice its softening effects, which are all thanks to glycerin and vitamin E. Let it sit for a minute for more noticeable results.
R325 for 200ml or R765 for 1L from Clicks, Dis-Chem, www.dermastore.co.za, www.skinmiles.com, www.cosmetology.co.za and www.superbalist.com
When the temperature plummets, it’s necessary to bring out the big skincare guns like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and vitamin A (retinol). The most common side effect of using retinol is dryness, but that’s easy to fix with the NeoStrata Skin Active Potent Retinol Complex (with hyaluronic acid and retinol). It made our skin hydrated, plump and bouncy – AKA the opposite of dry.
R1,420 from www.dermastore.co.za, www.skinmiles.com and www.skinsmart.co.za
Lamelle doesn’t skimp on products that give your skin a fresh, wide-awake look and feel. While hyaluronic acid is the star player of this lightweight, fast-absorbing serum, its supporting ingredients are just as effective. Along with HA, ectoin and arginine work to ward off dryness, soothe irritated skin, restore plumpness and elasticity, and smooth over any harsh lines or wrinkles.
R840 from www.dermastore.co.za, www.skinmiles.com and www.cosmetology.co.za
It can be tough to choose a product when you’re trying to tackle multiple skin concerns, but that’s not to say there aren’t multitaskers that do both. This hydrating face mask is proof – not only does it leave skin feeling moisturised, but it also packs antioxidants that help achieve firmer skin in just a few minutes. It gives instant relief for our extremely parched skin and never irritates.
R1,408 from www.skinmiles.com, www.cosmetology.co.za and www.takealot.com
Hear us out. Having one of the best hand creams by your side is essential during the colder months. French pharmacy brand, Eau Thermale Avéne, is a cult favourite – so it’s no wonder that their Cicalfate Hand Repairing Barrier Cream works so well. This unscented hand cream enriched with thermal spring water will not only nourish and treat them, but it’ll also do so delicately.
R210 from Clicks, Dis-Chem and www.dermastore.co.za
Of all the possible skincare steps, a face mist may seem the most frivolous. But we can attest that adding a mist to our routine has been game-changing for both our skin’s texture and tone. The SKNlogic Renew Mist Hypochlorous Light is designed to chill the skin out by using hypochlorous acid, a skin-balancing ingredient that breaks up bacteria on your face. A must-have.
R220 from www.sknlogic.com
The Sothys Hydra Hyaluronic Acid⁴ Velvet Youth Cream is like a cashmere sweater for your skin. It feels buttery and leaves skin with a velvet-smooth texture. Plus, we give its hyaluronic acid and organic rowan berry peptide-spiked formula two thumbs up for tackling dryness and flaking caused by cold air. When we use this at night, our skin feels perfectly baby soft come morning.
R1,045 from www.orleanscosmetics.co.za as well as select spas and salons
The iconic packaging, the peachy-coloured liquid, the skin-coddling formula – Estée Lauder’s bestseller for all skin types is a Hall of Famer. Like most anti-ageing serums, its wrinkle-fighting ingredients take a few weeks to kick in. In the meantime, it acts on visible signs of ageing, dullness and dryness for more youthful skin. And that’s all before you layer your night cream on top.
R720 for 20ml, R1,150 for 30ml, R1,770 for 50ml, R2,460 for 75ml or R2,950 for 115ml from www.esteelauder.co.za, Woolworths, Edgars, Foschini and Truworths
If you want one product that ensures your body stays well-hydrated and protected from the elements, let us introduce you to your new BFF. There are products that live up to the hype, and then there’s Elizabeth Arden’s new Eight Hour Daily Hydrating Body Lotion, which lives well beyond a viral moment. Luxurious, efficacious and and a sensorial treat – yes, you can have it all.
R549 from Woolworths, Edgars, Foschini, Truworths, Clicks, Dis-Chem, www.superbalist.com and www.takealot.com
We’re begging you to buy this! The Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Overnight Rehydrating Mask with 10.5% Squalane (it’s a mouthful) is a rich, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula that repairs and strengthens the skin barrier throughout the night. Redness? Gone. Texture? Smooth. Lines? Barely visible. The product can also be used as an ultra-gentle cleansing balm or a 15-minute mask.
R950 from Edgars, www.dermastore.co.za and www.superbalist.com
Environ’s single-serve skincare capsules deserve a permanent spot on your vanity – especially during winter, when your skin takes a bit of a beating. This antioxidant powerhouse protects your skin from free radicals that cause premature ageing, while softening and elevating your dew factor. Although it feels a bit thick to the touch, the capsule seeps into skin practically immediately.
R950 for 30 capsules from select salons
As much as we love donning our favourite sweaters and cosying up with hot chocolate, the winter season can wreak havoc on our skin. The luxuriously silky Esse Protect Oil is the very best product for your sensitive, dry and, yes, even normal skin. Powered by ximenia oil, it’ll help quell angry redness and chronic dryness for hours on end. Bonus points for a mind-soothing scent.
R750 from www.esseconceptstore.co.za as well as select spas and salons
The Endocare Radiance C Ferulic Edafence Serum is definitely worth the hype. This high-potency antioxidant serum is one of the most cherished products in our beauty cabinet (down to the very last drop!) for its ability to even skin tone, improve firmness and diminish the look of hyperpigmentation. How? Through pairing ferulic acid with vitamins C and E for maximum performance.
R1,230 from www.dermastore.co.za and www.skinmiles.com
Exuviance’s Glycolic Polish has won awards for being the best exfoliator – because it is. Exfoliants typically fall into either the chemical or physical category, but this pick is a double whammy. Aluminum oxide crystals gently resurface, while the combination of glycolic, polyhydroxy, alpha-hydroxy and lactobionic acids leaves skin soft, smooth and calm in a matter of seconds.
R1,310 from www.dermastore.co.za, www.skinmiles.com and www.cosmetology.co.za
Perhaps more than anything else, when you find the lip balm, you’ll probably stick with it for years. This is everything most people want out of a lip balm – nourishing but not greasy, hardworking but pretty enough to want in your handbag and lasts all day long. In fact, the more you use it, the less you should need thanks to its restorative blend of lavender honey and shea butter.
R350 from www.orleanscosmetics.co.za as well as select Woolworths, Foschini and Truworths stores
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.
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
Over the years, Cape Town has asserted itself as a world-class dining city. It’s a city known for its buzzy restaurants and critically acclaimed tasting menus. But sometimes, you simply want a blowout meal worth dropping a pretty penny on. An experience that floods your senses, fills your soul and leaves you with a lifelong memory. We’ve scoured the city for restaurants that transcend mere sustenance, offering a world of culinary fantasy and luxury.
In winter, we’re looking to dip in to fine-diners a little more lightly. Traditionally, devoted foodies and restaurant newbies (and a few lucky tourists) clear their dining schedules and make reservations at the city’s best special occasion spots for deals unseen the rest of the year.
What goes on Instagram first: The peerless V&A Waterfront views, or the artful plates coming from head chef John Norris-Rodgers’ kitchen? However you play it, lunch – and life – is good at this fine-dining restaurant overlooking the ocean. It shouldn’t be so surprising that the food in PIER Restaurant’s dining room is this good. But a position as glorious as this one can breed suspicion that the views might get dragooned into doing most of the heavy lifting. Bite into the superbly crisp salmon cone made luxurious with horseradish and dill, and it’s quickly apparent that flavour here is the equal of the ocean view. Don’t hesitate in ordering the Chef’s Experience with the Iconic Pairing led by a skilled sommelier. The Reduced Menu has its riches, of course. The Szechuan tuna with tamarind, ponzu and basil, for instance, is certainly one of the dishes of the year. But something about this food suits the grand gastronomic journey to the ground. Of the 12 dishes, seven were superb, eliciting oohs and ahhs, and five were outright conversation-
stoppers. Oysters make gripping counterparts for a hypnotic MCC foam and diced apple. Scallops, each as sweet and soft as custard, could be its own dish – but splashed with bacon dashi and sunchoke for textural interest, it all becomes a dissertation on intensity and richness. Course after course, colours pop against handmade ceramics. There’s a cheese trolley, too, naturally –another good argument for indulgence done right. Here, too much of a good thing never seems to be enough. It pairs perfectly with the deeply expressive wines. As for the setting, it’s classic fine dining; white-clothed tables for two and low-level lighting, backed by enthusiastic and engaged service. PIER is a bravura performance, worthy of sustained applause.
Winter special: Reduced Menu at R995 per person or Chef’s Experience at R1,495 per person (available for lunch only)
Pierhead Building, V&A Waterfront, Dock Road, Cape Town 021 879 6328
reservations@pier.restaurant www.pier.restaurant
There’s no shortage of charm at Le coin Français, chef-owner Darren Badenhorst’s minimalist 26-seater fine-dining restaurant. First impression? ‘Eating elegance’ encapsulates the mood. Soft, warm lighting complements a neutral palette and layered textures. The smooth sound of French café music winds its way past your eardrums like silk. But what strikes you almost immediately is the rare sense of subtle luxury, which percolates through the entire dining experience that follows. Despite being somewhere luxurious, you immediately feel at ease. The longer you stay, the more you come to understand that this is a restaurant that effortlessly exceeds expectations. It’s there in the thin stems of the glassware; the scrupulously ironed linen; the quality of the sparkling wine in the trolley that’s wheeled to each new table; the solicitousness of the waitstaff who top waters up at the slightest of sips. Yes, even in the treasures that come from the kitchen. The slow reveal is delightful. The ten-course Chef’s Journey menu lists big-ticket ingredients – venison, langoustine, duck, sea bass – in combinations that blend classic French and modern cooking. Cured venison loin collides with venison tartare and grilled baby beetroot. It’s given crunch and complexity from cinnamon and buchu crumble, blueberry and beetroot emulsion, and foraged herbs. Corn and duck prosciutto maize risotto lends depth of flavour to a flawless sous vide duck breast dressed with smoked corn and plum purée, duck jus and microgreens. The pristine butter-poached and BBQ North Coast langoustine is the real draw,
though. It makes a strong case for over-the-top indulgence with aerated Gruberg, West Coast snoek brandade velouté, and textbook pea and pancetta risotto.
Winter special: Seven-course menu at R595 per person (available for dinner from Tuesday to Sunday and for lunch on Saturday and Sunday)
17 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek 074 126 0022
reservations@lecoinfrancais.co.za www.lecoinfrancais.co.za
Wherever you find yourself among the vines, good food is never far away in the Cape Winelands. In moments of defeat – or when you’re just feeling lazy – cosying up to a plate of your favourite comfort food can soothe nearly any woe. We’re here to help you embrace that cheat meal and make sure every deliciously indulgent calorie counts this winter. From pizza to fried chicken, fish and chips to the finest tacos, these comfort food dishes hit every time.
In an era where eaters crave trends, cooking well-known dishes can be a risky prospect. How do you, after all, improve on the classics? In the case of Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery’s Peter John – ‘PJ’ – Vadas, you don’t. Instead, you use modern-day cooking skills to make these classics the finest versions of themselves. Housed in the Jonkershuis building at Spier Wine Farm, Vadas is brimming with cheerful casualness – yellow walls, red booth seating and a custom-built wood-fired oven at its heart. The easy-going service follows the template too. Whether you’re a fully-fledged meat lover or just in the mood for seasoned, long-smoked meats, look no further. The vibrant menu bridges authentic smokehouse-style dishes with a dose of modern culinary flare – to truly delicious effect. Every dish is a winner, but standouts include the sharp, salty labneh dip with roasted garlic and za’atar (best scooped up with flatbread); the lamb ribs pepped up with lashings of harissa tzatziki; the satisfyingly crunchy fried chicken with sweetcorn slaw and chipotle aioli; and the revelatory braaibroodjie made on buttery bread and filled with oozy fillings like boerenkaas, red onion and tomato. But whatever you do, a trip to Vadas isn’t complete without at least one freshly baked crispy, creamy pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tart). Take yours with a cup of coffee and eat them as you stroll through Spier.
Spier Wine Farm, Baden Powell Drive, Stellenbosch
021 809 1137
info@vadas.co.za
www.vadas.co.za
Stellenzicht Wines is a treasure in the heart of the Upper Blaauwklippen If it’s the best tacos in the Cape Winelands you seek, you’ve come to the right place. Bright colours, cool décor and lively music – Cosecha Restaurant on Noble Hill Wine Estate is a breezy crowd-pleaser. Despite being located on a vineyard, this place knows a thing or two about whipping up a delicious Latin American meal. Cosecha Restaurant boasts a concise but well-thought-out menu of food, wine and beer. That being said, the star that rises above the rest would have to be their approachable tacos. Three tacos are stuffed with huge chunks of beerbattered kingklip, cabbage slaw and sprinkled with citrus salsa. Simple, effective and tasty. Next, strands of slowcooked pork fill soft tortillas that are amped up with smashed avocado and green apple salsa. Our suggestion for first-timers? You’ll also want to save room for their authentic guacamole and prawn and chorizo quesadillas. Deeply conducive to good times, the famed guac here is prepared tableside from a trolley laden with avocados and bowls of chopped tomato, onion, coriander and chillies. Top it off with jalapeños, bacon or blue cheese. The vegetarian options will convert even the most affirmed carnivores –behold jalapeño and black bean salad or chickpea and red pepper enchiladas. It’s the sort of lick-your-fingers eating, accompanied by Noble Hill’s organic wines, that chimes well with the weekend mood and suits groups.
Noble Hill Wine Estate, Klapmuts-Simondium Road, Simondium 021 874 3844 www.noblehill.com
The title of ‘cool new kids on the block’ looks good on Franks Corner Bar and Grill. Since partners in The Franschhoek Beer Company – motoring entrepreneur Frank Rodriguez, venture capitalist Alex McCormack and beloved South African chef Reuben Riffel – opened its doors, the contemporary American restaurant in Franschhoek has been the go-to destination for the social set. The menu has all the staples you’d want, the pricing is as friendly as the welcome and the lineage can’t be beat. Be sure to order the blackened prawn tostada to start: Presented on a crisp tortilla shell with spicy Cajun prawns, chunky guacamole and chipotle lime crema, it’s irresistible.
So too are the corndogs and the buttermilk fried chicken wings. Starters wise, order many rather than a few. You will not regret it – not for a moment. Don’t leave without sampling the wellmarbled rib-eye steak with BBQ sauce or the pork chop plated with braised red cabbage, mustard cream sauce and blue cheese. And the upmarket spin on the fish and chips? A beer batter makes it moreish – that and lemon-caper aioli. Their drinks list goes big on The Franschhoek Beer Company beers, Franschhoek wines and on-theme cocktails. The Fancy Frank (gin, elderflower, lemon juice and Indian tonic) and Popcorn Old Fashioned (whisky, popcorn syrup and aromatic bitters) are excellent. It’s a top place to grab a meal out with the gang.
42 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek 021 488 9922
info@franks-corner.com www.franks-corner.com
Stellenzicht Wines is a treasure in the heart of the Upper Blaauwklippen Valley. With alfresco and indoor dining, the eco-friendly wine-tasting pod is a must-visit. The menu invites diners to choose from six types of pizza featuring interesting flavour combos made using local ingredients. Rectangular bases, blistered edges, molten cheese and generous toppings that spread out right to the edge make for a winning slice here every time. It’s amore. Pick a topping that’s worth Instagramming (think slow-roasted cherry tomatoes, pancetta, mushrooms and fresh rocket) or just devour their take on the classic margherita – why mess with perfection? The Spanish Sausage is a lush number, replete with chorizo, goat’s cheese and sweet onion marmalade. Eyes roll in delight at the exquisitely light Smoked Chicken topped with smoked chicken breast, basil pesto and avocado. We may be stating the obvious, but these pizzas are particularly good when washed down with one of the wines on the menu. A bold, meat lovers pizza calls for an equally bold wine that can stand head-to-toe with its rich flavours. The Thunderstone Red 2019 complements every last mouthful. A colourful veggie pizza needs the full-bodied Thunderstone Chardonnay 2023 to let all of the delicate tastes shine through. The snack game is strong here too – leave room for the cheeseboard for two and you’ll go home happy.
Stellenzicht Wines, Upper Blaauwklippen Road, Stellenbosch 021 569 0362
winepod@stellenzicht.com www.stellenzicht.com
There are few things you can rely on in life, but a stellar two or three-course meal at The Restaurant at Glen Carlou is a constant. Long lunches are a daily ritual at this thatch-roofed winery restaurant captained by head chef Johan Stander. The pleasingly plain space, comprising a modern art gallery and tasting room with an abundance of natural light, has long set the tone for high-end dining with vineyard views. Superb ingredients and sublime flavour combinations are valued in equal measure. While all dishes are accomplished in their own right, it’s the French onion soup made with perfectly caramelised onions, thyme and croutons that takes your breath away. Cut into the golden and crisp croquette, and Dalewood Huguenot oozes out. And if the winter blues are biting hard, just turn to the Parmesan soufflé with a poached pear and walnut salad to lift your spirits. As the pace shifts to mains, pork belly is teamed with apple, radish, Cape Malay crème and a potato croquette, while lamb shoulder gets slow-cooked till tickled pink, then presented with jus, beetroot, onion confit and fondant potatoes. They’re just dying to be accompanied with the full-bodied Glen Carlou Quartz Stone Chardonnay. Desserts, in the vein of luscious roasted figs with honey and thyme, blue cheese, a Parmesan crisp and thyme ice cream, maintain the high right to the end. Settle in for the afternoon.
Glen Carlou Wine Estate, Klapmuts-Simondium Road, Klapmuts
021 875 5528
restaurant@glencarlou.co.za www.glencarlou.com
Experience luxury at The Catalyst Hotel, just steps from Sandton’s Gautrain Station. Our 206 apartment-style rooms seamlessly blend business and leisure, redefining opulence in Johannesburg. Each room boasts deluxe finishes, marble accents, and bold artwork, creating an ambiance of refined elegance. Indulge in culinary delights at our gourmet restaurant, unwind on the outdoor deck with cocktails, and explore South African art in Kashew’s gallery-like space. Whether for business or pleasure, our hotel provides the perfect backdrop for any occasion. Experience perfection at The Catalyst Hotel, where luxury knows no bounds.
Winds are whipping and grey clouds are threatening. So, there’s nothing for it but to recharge with a compact winter break. Beat the chill by revelling in winter’s creature comforts – whether you’re after the cottagecore atmosphere, bracing walks on crisp and frosty mornings or picturesque snow-covered mountain peaks that glisten in the sun. With stellar views, open fireplaces, hot toddies and gorgeous candles aflame, these are the best weekend getaways without leaving the country.
Best for: Calm and calmer
While many believe the most notable South African wines come from Stellenbosch, Paarl and Constantia, the Garden Route has wine regions of its own that shouldn’t be overlooked. Just a few hours outside Cape Town is where you’ll discover a different crop of wine land that sits within a colder climate and is known for a robust production of Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wines. For those in search of a fresh wine scene, foodie heaven or a break from the city grind, The Crags – just 20km beyond Plettenberg Bay – holds the key to a perfect weekend getaway. Dramatically situated on the hill overlooking the rolling green countryside is the
spectacular Crags Country Lodge. The architecturally designed property was built to provide an all-season, luxury escape from which you can enjoy all the region. The experience starts as soon as you enter the lodge. The coolness of the soothing, minimalist décor (the lobby is all blonde wood on blonde wood) is offset by a roaring fire and a warm welcome. Every staff member you encounter is dedicated and passionate about what they do – and it’s easy to see why. The eight clean-lined, super-spacious freestanding suites sing of contemporary cool. Our suite had a modern lodge vibe with lots of natural light, creamcoloured walls, light-wood furnishings a vague splash of
grey, the odd single-stem vase here and there, pendant lights, jute rugs and black tapware. All the basic requirements got A-grades – Nespresso machine, speedy c, satisfying shower and big wardrobe. Prepare for bedtime with a soak in the deep-set bathtub before collapsing into the giant king-size bed. Food is no afterthought at Crags Country Lodge, either – it houses one of The Crags’ best restaurants. At Crags Country Lodge Restaurant, the approach is refined and the attention to detail is high. Head chef Alice Burnham-King (previously of Singita’s award-winning safari lodges) celebrates local and seasonal cuisine through tasty, thoughtful and inventive dishes served up in the sunlight-strewn
dining room. It’s lovely to have a long, coursed dinner. Each dish is more magical than the last, from the red wine poached pear salad and seared tuna steak (melt-in-your-mouth brilliant), to a superb Moroccan-inspired m’hanncha – pastry filled with almond and date paste, then shaped into a snake-like form and served with saffron and orange blossom syrup, vanilla Chantilly cream and citrus segments. The expansive deck is an idyllic setting for an afternoon wine sampling while enjoying the breathtaking views. Cocktails? Also terrific. Breakfast, which is included, is a glorious multi-course affair including piping-hot cappuccinos, fluffy croissants and oozy-yolked eggs. On a cool misty morning, there’s nothing better to warm up your bones.
From R3,350 per night
N2, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay 072 608 9467
reservations@cragscountrylodge.co.za www.cragscountrylodge.co.za
Best for: Starry-eyed bliss
Romance means different things to different people, but few can resist the allure of a romantic escape for two. In a valley just outside Cape Town, the appeal in summer is obvious. Rolling green and sun-dappled vineyards, rugged mountain ranges and star-covered skies inevitably backdrops summertime romance. But it’s equally atmospheric in the off-season mist and drizzle, when the solitude of the mountains acts like a soulful reset. It will come as little surprise that chilly staycations at Plaisir Wine Estate are well-catered for, with cosy living spaces and crackling fires that invite hunkering down. Set in gentle farmland, the 974-hectare property is an impressive sight. This estate is grand but hugely welcoming, consisting of five self-catering cottages and a stately manor house dating back to 1823. The architectural style is Cape Dutch – wooden and white with square-paned windows and distinctive gables, as well as elegant courtyards. It’s vivid green in the growing season, but in winter the last grapes are coming off the vines and the mountains are wreathed in cloud in the mornings. The air smells of lavender. Occupying the vast Manor Suite is a promising start – with two bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, old-school dining areas and a private terrace, it’s some suite! You’ll be swept away by
the enchanting gardens. The Manor Suite has all the makings of an intimate escape. Floor-toceiling wood, flames flickering in the Victorian fireplace and a creek in the winter – it’s hard not to be enamoured. The bedrooms combine original features with 21st-century cosseting with sensitive lighting, neroli-scented AmandaJayne bathroom toiletries and king-size beds perfect for sinking into deep sleep. After a long day of wine tastings and fine meals, this farm stay is one you’ll want to come back to. Plaisir Wine Estate is surrounded by endless greenery waiting to be explored. There are plenty of walking routes and mountain bike trails which are magical in winter – especially when there’s the promise of a well-earned glass of wine at the end of it. The charming indooroutdoor tasting room provides a multitude of ways to experience the wines in a way that’s comfortable to you, from the express tasting to the chocolate truffle and red wine pairing. Feel like sipping your way at a leisurely pace? Then grab a bottle and a charcuterie board featuring locally sourced delicacies to sit and while away an afternoon. The estate is also conveniently close to the historic town of Franschhoek. This is ideal for those wishing to explore the spoils of the region including celebrated restaurants, craft breweries, historic houses and public artworks. Whether you’re an outdoorsy couple seeking to reconnect with nature or a pair that would rather hop between cellar doors, Plaisir offers romantic getaway bliss.
R4,050 per night during low season (June to August) or R4,450 per night during high season (September to May) with a minimum two-night stay required.
R45, Simondium 021 488 9977
bookings@plaisir.co.za www.plaisir.co.za
Best for: A digital detox
The changing of seasons is always a good time to hit the reset button and take some of that elusive ‘me time’ – something best found in a glamping moment on the coast. More than ever, safari camps are developing innovative ways to move tourism towards a more sustainable future. Eco lodges are challenging travellers to be more thoughtful and responsible when choosing where to stay. Sibuya Game Reserve, near Kenton-on-Sea in the Eastern Cape and a member of Cape Country Routes, is at the forefront of this movement – identifying ways to celebrate and respect nature, from solar-powered stays to anti-poaching measures. An escape from the mundane in pursuit of inner and outer serenity is so often what we seek, yet struggle to find in the everyday. So, for those in need of a mental recharge, the homely, unpretentious Sibuya Forest Camp is for you. Perfect for a digital detox, the off-grid location only has solar power and lanterns to guide you as the night draws in. But at least some home comforts are close by, including Wi-Fi and practical charging points in the communal area. Tea and coffee stations are available in the lapa as well as in the tents. Additionally, you can indulge in a refreshing beer or wine from Val du Charron’s exclusive selection for Sibuya Game Reserve from the well-stocked bar. The only parenting that goes on is in the hands of Mother Nature – there’s a strict no children under 12 policy. The camp is set in the 36 square kilometre Sibuya Game Reserve, home to approximately 400 species of birds, elephants, Cape buffaloes, rhinoceroses, lions and shy leopards. Game drives reveal baboons sprawled on a rocky escarpment and a multitude of other animals. On the water of the Kariega River, which winds its way through the reserve, half-collared and pied kingfishers pose
along the shoreline. A variety of birds, including the iconic fish eagle can be spotted from the sun-drenched decks or camp canoes. The eight spacious, classically styled canvas tents are linked by wooden walkways and carefully positioned in the indigenous forest to ensure maximum privacy. Designed to flow, not fight, with the natural environment. Inside the tents, jewel-bright colours enliven everything from rugs to scatter cushions. You can fall asleep to the tune of the surrounding bush wrapped in luxurious cotton sheets, or on cooler nights, bask in the warmth of your private fireplace. In camp, sunlight floods in during the day. By evening, Sibuya Forest Camp is an enchanting place – it’s transformed into a cosy lantern-lit dining area and bar as chefs prepare fine fireside fare with an African twist. The forest and river provide a hypnotic backdrop to fireside
drinks and evening feasts. Also, we love the books and board games. After an early start with a game drive, breakfast is a welcome treat. Sibuya Game Reserve is a transportive experience – with a real sense of harmony in a wild, vast and diverse landscape.
From R4,931 per person sharing per night.
39 Eastbourne Road, Kenton-on-Sea 046 6481040
res2@sibuya.co.za www.sibuya.co.za www.capecountryroutes.com
Staying on a farm has never been so tempting. The sublime natural beauty of the Breedekloof Valley is matched by the stealth-luxe of BOSJES – set on 300 hectares of fruit and olive groves about an hour’s drive from Cape Town. The setup here isn’t just inspired by its location; integrating with the landscape is the entire point. A setting of such pastoral perfection, you’ll pinch yourself. The 200-year-old Herehuis is the farm’s original manor house with gorgeously quirky bedrooms – warm and familiar yet contemporary and design-led. Although immaculately updated, traces of the past remain. The 12 rooms and suites take their lead from interior designer Liam Mooney’s smorgasbord of decorative interiors that characterise the public areas, but with a considerably calmer sensibility for private chilling. They’re a celebration of colour and pattern, awash with herbaceous-referencing greens and burnt orange. In our Master Suite, a canopy enveloped the four-poster kingsize bed, sitting alongside crafty modern extras including
a Nespresso machine and slick flatscreen TV. Light also plays an important role – it’s designed to lift spirits during even the darkest mid-winter days. But it’s the social spaces that really supercharge BOSJES. Relaxed, all-day dining is served throughout the various restaurant spaces, from the lush, plant-filled Eetkamer to Spens, an architectural marvel. Breakfast and dinner are included in the room rates, and you’ll likely be eating on-property for the entire stay. After breakfast, venture outside for a skin-tingling swim in the heated pool, sink into an armchair with a volume plucked from the library shelf or help yourself to a drink at the honesty bar, within convenient reach of the sunroom. The hotel is proudly staffed by a team of locals, all eager to please and easy to chat with. Service is attentive for the most part and relaxed without being imposing. Kombuis hopes to raise BOSJES’s culinary profile even further with locally sourced meat, fish and vegetables, simply but stylishly dished up. The pan-fried sea bass served with beurre blanc, braised leeks and pomme purée is simply divine. And just when you think the experience can’t get any
better, the expanded Die Stalle Spa is for those seeking the restorative nature of holistic healing. Hosting six treatment rooms in the historic confines of the original stables, it’s utterly decadent. Taupe-flecked linen sofas, raffia lamps and gold accents offer a sense of calm. Picture yourself enjoying a full-body ginger and lavender poultice massage as the sun sets, dousing the space in golden and orange hues. Priceless. Treatments use products from local brands TheraVine and TheraNaka. It’s hard to pass up the Balancing Facial, which offers a comprehensive step-by-step journey to getting rid of all the toxins of metropolitan life.
From R5,800 per night
R43, Worcester 023 004 0496
stay@bosjes.co.za www.bosjes.co.za
Want to hibernate in style? Though we might love the buzz of city love – the hustle and bustle, the never-ending supply of things to do and see – it’s the fantasy of just about every city dweller. A change of scenery. And we’re not talking about a remote timber-clad cabin. We’re talking about the best of both worlds: Cutting-edge design and delicious isolation. If you’re looking for a cosy weekend holed up in perfect comfort and solitude, Gîte is the ideal spot to wind down, toast marshmallows or soak in the hot waters of the wood-fired hot tub. This Franschhoek retreat balances the charm of a rustic property with modern comforts, creating a truly welcoming space. There are actually four thoughtfully clustered gîtes (a French term referring to a holiday home or vacation rental, typically in a rural area)
on site, each with their own full-sized bed, bathroom, kitchenette and sectioned seating areas. Inside Gîte 1, you’ll find open-plan living areas with an inviting bedroom and a fully equipped modern kitchen, complete with a full set of handy amenities to ensure your stay is nothing less than exceptional. The bathroom is spacious with a walk-in shower, and there’s a private garden area. The aesthetic is minimal and elegant, yet it retains a homely feel – particularly at dusk, when the evening light scatters a warm glow through the glass-fronted designer cabin. Take a breath, can you feel that? Bliss. On the outside terrace, there are sunbeds, a hot tub
big enough for two and a Weber braai for suppers eaten under the stars. Wake up, draw back the thick curtains and drink in the view from the most comfortable queen-size bed. You see nothing but nature from the bed, which is simply dressed in soft white with pillows that yield to the touch. Be sure to enjoy the unbelievable mountain views outside with a cup of coffee, too. It might be difficult to convince yourself to venture outside of the cabin itself, but the grounds beg to be explored. Spend days saying hello to the farm’s cows, soaking up the all-natural vibes of the area and taking advantage of the paths that wind between the vineyards. In the winter, when snow blankets the Franschhoek Mountains, this cabin becomes a snug haven. And if you can’t leave the digital world behind, fear not. There’s a TV and fast Wi-Fi available. Gîte is right in the centre of town, but magically peaceful at night. Evenings here are for cosying up with hot chocolate and a good book. There’s everything you need for a self-catered stay – from a kettle and toaster to a fridge and crockery – but if you’d like to take an evening off, nearby drinking and dining holes are within walking distance. For all-star gastronomy or a local ale, Franschhoek’s huge variety of restaurants are full of charm and roaring fires. Can you imagine a more idyllic escape? We certainly can’t.
From R2,750 per night
Cabriere Street, Franschhoek 082 820 9216
info@gitefranschhoek.co.za www.gitefranschhoek.co.za
