A SLICE OF SPAIN

LOCATION

In a valley surrounded by the big, green hills of the Escarpment, about 20km east of Waterval Boven on the N4.

STYLE

It’s as if a hacienda was airlifted from Cuba and dropped intact into the valley — pastel exteriors, corridors and interiors with dramatic Spanish arches, and red roof tiles whose colour is emphasised by tall coral trees and sweeps of bougainvillea. The rooms are modernish (the bathrooms could use an upgrade) with little balconies from which you can admire the lush garden and breathe the sweet Lowveld air.

SERVICE

Easygoing, but in a good way. From the time I phoned to book, everybody knew my name and treated me like a long-lost friend when I arrived.

AND THE FOOD?

The menu is simple and without fuss. The lamb curry was superb; breakfast was the standard buffet that we have come to expect from hotels.

FACILITIES

There is a small spa, a conference centre, a nice little bar, pictured above, next to reception and a very cute library. Rooms have air-conditioning and DStv but the free wifi is only available in the public areas — so that cute little library could be useful if you can’t switch off.

ACTIVITIES

Just being here is its own activity. There’s a pool, surrounded by the aforementioned gardens, which are a delight. Still, it would be wrong to not go exploring, starting with Kaapsehoop, a former forestry hamlet 15km off the N4.

Kaapsehoop is famous for its incredible rock formations and the resident herd of wild horses, which are often seen foraging in the streets.

For a bit of adventure, head back up the hill to Waterval Boven to go rock climbing or abseiling with Roc ’n Rope Adventures (rocrope.com). Or go spelunking at Sudwala Caves (sudwalacaves.com) and check out the dinosaurs in the park next door (dinosaurpark.co.za).

RATES

From R750 per room per night (family room R940, suite R1,140).

CONTACT

fortishotels.com/fortis-hotel-malaga