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Grand Old Dame’s Elegant Transformation

Posted in New Accommodation by SA Blog Editor, 3 September 2008.

Innovation and experience are the driving forces of sustainable, successful businesses in the hospitality industry, according to futurologist Ian Yeoman, a specialist in travel and tourism. If businesses don’t ‘innovate and change their hairstyles’ like fashion icon David Beckham does every eighteen months, they’ll drift into obscurity, claims Yeoman.

Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa in Somerset West is sporting a new hairstyle that will turn heads.

We’re referring, of course, to the internal transformation of this elegant boutique hotel, acquired in 2007 by Louis Group Hotels, Spas & Vineyards, a division of Louis Group, one of the largest privately-owned property, financial services and technology companies in South Africa. The recently redecorated Manor House ensures that guests will enjoy an even better experience than before.

Erinvale Hotel

The décor of the public areas had become somewhat dated,” says Craig Seaman, Managing Director of Louis Group Hotels, Spas & Vineyards. “We decided to revamp the whole look and feel of this space with a modern yet sophisticated style. The choice of fabrics and artwork has been critical to achieve a balance between understated elegance and comfort. We’re very pleased with the result – the Cape country ethos of the hotel has been maintained, but with a fresher, more contemporary look. And we’re confident that guests will notice and appreciate the difference the refurbishment has made,” he adds.

The purpose of the refurbishment was not merely to update the interior design of the public areas, but also to create a more sophisticated flow,” explains Jean Paul van As, General Manager of Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa, “and this required relocating the restaurant. This in turn allowed us the opportunity to totally re-invent the dining experience through the birth of Magnolia Restaurant.”

Erinvale is steeped in history, but the natural evolution that gradually transformed it from a modest Cape Dutch style farmstead dating back to the 1700s into the elegant four-star boutique hotel of today has preserved the rich heritage of this property. Guests driving onto the grounds immediately notice the majestic, towering oaks that have silently stood their ground for generations. In fact, the entire layout of the property is a restoration of the historic buildings, with modern additions such as the replica of a quaint Irish chapel, conferencing facilities and a luxury wellness spa all enhancing its quality and distinction in the hospitality industry.

And now, with the latest refurbishment complete, Erinvale’s renowned ‘distinctive and captivating hospitality’ just got better.

Magnolia Restaurant: The evolution of improvements to Erinvale includes the newly launched Magnolia Restaurant, serving contemporary local cuisine with a twist. This sophisticated restaurant, draped in bold décor, creates a striking setting for patrons to wine and dine away the evenings or lazy Sunday lunches. The inspiration for the name ‘Magnolia’ comes from the spectacular flowering magnolia trees on the hotel grounds, which also inspired the regal décor of the restaurant.

Skelligs Pub: When Louis Group first purchased Erinvale, one of the initial upgrades was to the hotel bar, which became the popular Irish-styled Skelligs Pub. “The extension to Skelligs Pub transformed the previous hotel bar into a ‘gastro pub’, offering wholesome lunches and traditional pub dinners,” says Craig Seaman.

Contact
Erinvale Hotel & Spa
Lourensford Road, Somerset West, 7130
Telephone: +27 (21) 847 1160

Related Sites:
Cape Town Accommodation
South Africa Hotels

A special Guest House in Shakas Rock

Posted in New Accommodation,Reviews by SA Blog Editor, 6 July 2007.

If you are planning to visit the Dolphin Coast in KwaZulu Natal anytime soon, I recently came across the delightful Lynberrys Guest House which is located just 350m from the beach in Shakas Rock. Graded as a 4 Star Guest House by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, you will soon see why when you step inside …

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The rooms are beautifully decorated and equipped with everything you could want after a “hard day” at the beach! Air conditioner, LCD TV with DSTV, hospitality tray and toiletries - and they have included the Disney channel for holiday makers traveling with kids in their family suite which we thought was a lovely touch. (and great to keep our little one amused whilst we recovered from all the relaxing!).

The service is extra-special and the breakfast was superb! We only stayed for the one night unfortunately but will certainly go back to Lynberrys next time we go to Shakas Rock, hopefully for a longer stay. They are close to golf courses, the beach of course, fishing and for shopping the Lifestyle Centre is very close. Overall our imptression of Lynberrys was extremely good and we found the rates very reasonable considering the quality of the accommodations and service experienced. 

For additional info see:
Lynberrys in Shakas Rock
Shakas Rock Info (on www.SA-Venues.com)
The Dolphin Coast Attractions & Info
Dolphin Coast Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Events & Festivals

Durban Holiday Site

Posted in KwaZulu Natal,New Accommodation,New Web Sites,Special Offers by SA Blog Editor, 2 April 2007.

Newly relaunched with a new look, user friendly search functions and fast loading pages, for all your accommodation in KwaZulu Natal and Durban, try www.Durban-Venues.co.za. You will find accommodation, you can book Hotels, bed & breakfasts, guest and country lodges in Durban, the Natal Midlands, Drakensberg, North and South Coasts of KwaZulu Natal and of course the ever-popular Umhlanga Coastline. 

Durban Accommodation

Use the advanced search to search for accommodation of a specific type such as holiday homes, self catering villas or cottages and chalets or search by town name. If you are looking for a Conference or Wedding venue you can find these here too. All establishments show photos, all their contact telephone numbers so you can contact them directly. This is a NON-COMMISION site so you deal directly with the establishments and can get discounts. (But ask for a discount!) Don’t expect any discounts during the June/July school holidays though – accommodation can be hard to find especially along the coast, so start looking now!

Visit the site at:
KwaZulu Natal and Durban Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Beaches

Camps Bay Guest House

Posted in Cape Town,New Accommodation,New Web Sites by SA Blog Editor, 22 August 2006.

Unique in Camps Bay, Cape Town and nestled under the Twelve Apostles in a peaceful location, Cape Rose Cottage enjoys breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the most magnificent sunsets.

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Your English hosts Pam and Steve, have created a charming home with a beautiful garden for the discerning guest who is looking for luxurious self catering or Bed & Breakfast accommodation in Camps Bay in a ‘home away from home’ haven in a safe, secure and peaceful setting in one of the most beautiful areas in Cape Town, South Africa.

This warm and inviting Camps Bay home, with a wonderful ambience, is beautifully decorated and furnished. The 1st floor section of the house offers two self contained suites which each accommodate two people. The suites have a separate entrance and an adjoining lounge. The entire floor can be let as a penthouse (ideal for two couples travelling together) or the suites can be let individually.

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The ground floor offers the stunning Cape Rose Suite which also has its own private entrance and accommodates two people. This suite leads out directly to the beautiful tranquil garden and solar heated swimming pool. Honeymooners and those seeking something a little more special in Cape Town will delight in the exclusivity and romantic decor that the suites offer.

For additional photographs, information and to see a virtual tour, please visit the website at: Cape Rose Cottage Camps Bay or contact Pam and Steve on: Tel: +27 (0)21 438-1786.

Related Links: Cape Town Accommodation and South Africa Travel

Accommodation in Hout Bay

Posted in Cape Town,New Accommodation,New Web Sites by SA Blog Editor, 28 July 2006.

For your next holiday in Cape Town, look no further than Troodos House in Hout Bay for either Bed & Breakfast Accommodation or Self Catering Cottages. Troodos House is set beautifully on the mountain side in Hout Bay. Bordering on a forest and with it’s own large indigenous garden, Troodos House offers magnificent mountain and valley views.

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At Troodos House, The main house has four en-suite double bedrooms, all with full picture windows with unobstructed views, overlooking the unique rim flow pool. The rooms all have sliding doors, leading on to the two large pool decks and have ceiling fans. The fully equipped self catering cottages feature French doors which open onto the patio and garden, with its panoramic views.

Visit the Troodos House Website at: Troodos House & Cottages in Hout Bay or Contact Gay and Tony on:
Telephone: +27 (0)21 790-5220 (international).
Telephone: 021 790-5220 (local).

New Accommodation in the Eastern Cape

Posted in Eastern Cape,New Accommodation by SA Blog Editor, 5 December 2005.

PORTOFINO HOTEL – Port Alfred, Eastern Cape: Portofino Hotel is positioned overlooking the Royal Alfred Marina and the bustling small boat harbour. With breathtaking ocean views from our deck you can sit back and relax in the warm atmosphere of this comfortable hotel. Our facilities include an indoor swimming pool with a fully equipped gym. You may enjoy Port Alfred’s sunny weather from our outdoor pool set in tranquil gardens …
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HALSTEAD HOUSE – Port Alfred, Eastern Cape: With subtle influences of Key West and the Caribbean, Halstead House offers stylish and affordable accommodation in a gracious, turn-of-the-century Eastern Cape homestead. The ideal place to kick back, relax and enjoy your stay in the heart of Port Alfred and the Sunshine Coast, Eastern Cape …
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DUNGBEETLE RIVER LODGE – Colchester, Greater Addo: Dungbeetle River Lodge is uniquely situated on the banks of the beautiful Sundays River only 40 kms from Port Elizabeth on the N2. The Lodge boasts the best view of the river and is close to the new entrance to the Addo National Elephant Park …
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Related Pages:
Eastern Cape Accommodation
Eastern Cape Hotels
South Africa Hotels
South Africa Accommodation

Lagoon Beach Hotel in Cape Town awarded 5 Star grading

Posted in Cape Town,New Accommodation by SA Blog Editor, 3 December 2005.

Three Cities’ Lagoon Beach has achieved five-star grading from the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa. The 300-room property situated on the Atlantic Ocean near Milnerton offers views of Table Mountain and Robben Island. Facilities include a Camelot Spa, the Abalone and Wangthai Restaurants and the Ice Bar.

“I’m delighted at the achievement of this brand new, stunning hotel. The five star grading is one of the highlights of my career and I”m looking forward to taking Lagoon Beach from strength to strength” says general manager David Church.

Lagoon Beach Hotel – Milnerton, Cape Town: Capturing the essence of 5 star luxury, the impeccably appointed Lagoon Beach Hotel offers unequalled views of the mother city’s most famous landmark – Table Mountain. Whether you choose to stay in the Hotel’s presidential suite, superior rooms or standard rooms, you’ll be immersed in an atmosphere of sheer luxury. The hotel also features a magnificent sea-facing restaurant, where you can wine and dine as you take in a glorious cape sunset…

Related Pages:
Cape Town Hotels
Cape Town Travel
Cape Town Map

Cape Accommodation – NEW!

Posted in Cape Town,New Accommodation by SA Blog Editor, 1 November 2005.

CARTWRIGHT CORNER 1903 – Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town: Beautifully appointed, luxuriously furnished and the most spectacular views of Table Mountain and the City of Cape Town. There’s little else one needs to make a visit to South Africa’s shores more complete, but at Cartwright Corner 1903 you get it all and more. Cartwright Corner 1903 is centrally situated in the heart of Cape Town and the Victoria & Albert Waterfront is a stone’s throw away. Take a stroll down to the Artscape Theatre to take in the …
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VILLA ON THE BAY – Camps Bay, Cape Town: A perfect choice for a wonderful holiday venue the Villa on the Bay is a stylish double story house providing the ultimate in luxury self catering holiday accommodation. Ideally suited to guests looking for an alternative to a top-class hotel while enjoying the comfort and privacy of a luxury home. Recently decorated by top class interior designer and equipped with all comforts for a relaxing and enjoyable stay …
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CHELSEA MANOR – Kleinmond, near Hermanus: Chelsea Manor is situated in the coastal town of Kleinmond, 33km from Hermanus and 8km from Arabella Country Estate. Nestled at the foot of the mountain in a quiet residential area, guests enjoy mountain and golf course views. In the distance the ocean provides the perfect touch to the horizon. Chelsea Manor is situated on the Kleinmond Golf Course and comprises of three comfortable guest rooms, all with en-suite bathroom …
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WINELANDS LODGE – Durbanville, Cape Town: Winelands Lodge is located in the peaceful suburb of Durbanville in Cape Town and is situated only one kilometre from the village centre. Durbanville is within a 30 min drive of the airport, the Waterfront, Blouberg beach, and even closer to Canal walk and Ratanga junction. Durbanville is almost midway between the city centre and Stellenbosch …
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OLD THATCH LODGE – Swellendam, Western Cape: We invite you to sleep in a “National Monument” or to stay in our comfortable “Self-Catering Cottages”. Have a rest in our wonderful indigenous garden, or go with us on a tour of Swellendam, third oldest town in South Africa and approximately 220 km from Cape Town …
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MOOI BLY WINE ESTATE – Paarl, Cape Winelands: The estate is +/- 30 Ha. At this moment we have 16.5 Ha under vines and we will plant more, up to 22 Ha., this and next year. We finished our own wine cellar in January 2005 and producing Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. We proudly announce that our maiden vintage is awarded at the Veritas Wine Show. Our crisp Chenin Blanc ’05 received the bronze medal and our lightly wooded Chardonnay ’05 won a Silver …
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LA BRUYERE FARM – Tulbagh, Breede River Valley: The farm is 222 hectares with the upper part of the farm reaching into the natural fynbos and proteas of the Western Cape mountains. Other parts of the farm are established to wine grape vineyards, winter crops such as oats and a herd of Angus cows. Every aspect of the farm offers breathtaking views which makes this a peaceful and …
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DE ZEEKOE GUEST FARM – Oudtshoorn, Klein Karoo: An expansive modern working ostrich farm of 2000 hectares, on the banks of the Olifants River. 3000 Ostriches and 250 springbuck on vast Alfalfa fields offer a unique experience in the Klein Karoo. De Zeekoe Guest Farm is located along the world famous R62 wine route, from Cape Town to Mossel Bay where it enters the Garden Route on the N2. A bird lover’s paradise with over 152 different species …
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Related Pages:
Explore Cape Town and The Western Cape
Find Accommodation in the Cape