Although there are newly built hotels and guest suites on wine and fruit farms nowadays, here, especially in the Manor House, things are very much like they were when the Sonnenbergs lived here. David still uses part of the Manor House, off the dining room, as his study. Everywhere you look there is something comfortable and warmly familiar. The only suggestion that they're geared to paying guests is the tea tray in the room which also has a Guest Information brochure.
The 1960's Hollywood inspired bathroom in Room 1 is what guests will remember most and tell their friends about. It is a bathroom created for a diva with golden swan taps, a slightly sunken bath and mirrors that reflect every angle. David's mother Cecilia was well known as part of the force that created Maynardville Open-Air Theatre in Wynberg. This is the sort of bathroom that a famous Shakespearean actress would dress in.
I can see why brides like this room to dress in.
Weddings are a big part of the business of Diemersfontein but the excellent wines will always be the mainstay, with restaurant and accommodations just a part of the estate's commercial elements. There are plots for sale on the vast estate. One owner said she liked the idea of owning grape vines but having others to tend them.
Stay in the Manor House for a warmly colonial vibe. Spend as much time as you can on the deep and long veranda's comfy cushioned cane chairs, pretending to be lord of the manor, without any of the hassles of managing a country estate.
The Manor House rooms appear freshly upgraded in the English country house-style with toile wallpaper. It is an unquestionably comfortable stay but I missed Wi-Fi, TV and having ground coffee in the room.
We've also stayed in Garden Cottage 13, which is simpler in décor but as comfortable. I liked the reed ceilings and crisp linens. Situated behind the Manor House, these suites have the best views.
While the horses lope up the hill from their stables and the Ibis and Francolins argued take in the majesty of Diemersfontein. The views are spectacular and even from our high perch, the avenue of Blue Gums on the estate's border tower above.
Rather than the neatly coiffed look of a landscaper's attention, the beautiful gardens seem tendered by someone with a genuine love for beautiful things. One plant had such giant leaves that must have been prehistoric. From our garden suite number 13 we looked into verdant forest. Even though I moaned about the distance of the walk past the pool and through the rose garden to the parking area, it was worth it.
The location on the lip of Wellington is both boon and drawback. In a few short minutes you are on the highway or in Wellington proper, but that means being equally close to the cemetery and local community. We never heard any town noises during our stay and it made returning from dinner in the centre of Wellington within three minutes a pleasure.
The rates are R650 per night sharing, and R400 per night single (ALL ROOMS).
For more information go to www.Diemersfontein.co.za or (T) +27 (0) 21 864 5050, (F) +27 (0) 21 864 2095 or (C) +27 (0) 83 7499 461.
