Cradle Valley

TRIPADVISOR NO. 1 OF 19 B&BS/INNS, MULDERSDRIFT

I saw a number of wedding specialists to check out their accommodation; most felt pretty cookie-cutter corporate, but Cradle Valley Guest Lodge is a class act. Owner Wilmé van Niekerk has a great eye, mixing vintage with contemporary pieces, and her gardens are as immaculate as her rooms (the venue room is a real wow). The guest lodge is deceptively large – 21 units discreetly scattered throughout the property, every one of them different, including a marvellous bridal suite with several mirror and make-up stations for the bridesmaids. Every room has a seating area and patio, and is entered from the garden; 100 per cent percale linen, coffee/ tea-making facilities, homemade biscuits, a bar fridge that you’re welcome to stock with your own drinks. This is a great choice for a weekend getaway, with a pool and walks on the property, but as it’s a popular wedding venue you may be hard-pressed to get a weekend booking. Well worth trying, though.

ROOM TIP There are two cottages – these are bigger, more private and allow for self-catering. Cottage 1 sleeps up to six in three bedrooms, and has marvellous mountain views from a well-furnished deck. Cottage 2 (aka the Groom’s Suite) has one bedroom but is big enough to add two single beds, and has an outdoor area with great lighting and ideally set up for al fresco entertaining.

COST From R750 pp sharing B&B.

CONTACT 079-697-3039, cradlevalley.co.za