Grand Dédale is a gem of a place located in a corner of the Wellington Mountains, just below Bainskloof Pass. What a delightful experience! The road leading to the Manor House is about four kilometres of dirt road, but not much of a challenge for our little Polo. It’s one of those ‘nice’ dirt roads. The house is on a working wine farm called Doolhof, so expect to bump into a few farm workers and their families around the estate.
The setting is stunning – high mountains with green lawns below; a stark white interior and slick furniture displays grand opulence as you enter the house. The first thing you notice is the clean, simple decor with a touch of luxury. The fresh flowers, textured fabrics and neat finishes make you feel as though you are entering a palace, but still put you completely at ease.
We were greeted by owner Angelou Casu, who operates Grand Dédale with wife Tina. They have a wealth of experience behind them. We were quickly offered a welcome drink and shown around the loft rooms, lounge and TV area upstairs and then finally… the suite. The upstairs area with its thatch roof has been nicely furnished to maintain the cosy atmosphere. You can sit and catch up on the news on TV or browse your Ipad / laptop using the WIFI, although there is a desk with internet facilities if you haven’t come prepared.
The honesty bars are in designated places in the house and not in the rooms. They have a lovely dinner service whereby a chef will come and prepare the four course table d’hôte menu especially for you. The dinner is additional and a great option if you don’t feel like leaving the comfort of this accommodation to find a place to eat! Welcome drinks and aperitifs are served on the patio at sunset before dinner.
What I enjoyed about the house was that there were many places to sit and relax, read or browse the selection of books available. Unless you’re in one of the suites with their own summer conservatories, it’s quite handy. The suites are beautiful; the choice of colour and texture are modern; rooms are comfy and warm – too warm in fact, but a huge welcome for those chilly winter days. Rooms are complete with under-floor heating, heated towel rails, gowns, iPod players, tea/coffee facilities, books, magazines and games.
We woke up to a morning of rain so there weren’t any green hills or mountains in sight, but we didn’t mind because the breakfast was so remarkable – and extensive, what with several breads, cheeses, jams, honey as well as hot breakfasts like salmon scrambled egg, crepes and omelette. Good coffee (or a great selection of teas for my husband) and warm, fresh croissants and muffins are always a winner.
Overall, this is a great country experience, with a touch of luxury. You truly feel well-pampered after a stay at Grand Dédale.
Read more about Grand Dédale on our website.