Serenity of Paarl
In addition to these rooms, the Jonkershuis cottage offers self-catering accommodation for six guests, and Villa 28 for up to 12 people.
The 1920s thatched roof house, on a property adjacent to the estate, has been renovated to modern perfection while retaining its old world charm.
It’s a short walk through the vineyards to enjoy all the attractions of the estate itself.
Villa 28 has six double/twin rooms, a living room, dining room and a fully equipped kitchen, as well as a garden and private swimming pool.
What is quite remarkable about Laborie Estate is that the entrance is literally – and I do not use that word lightly – 230m from the main road (which, incidentally, is famous for being the longest in the country). As such, you can see and hear the traffic but somehow it is barely noticeable or intrusive; I’ve stayed at a lot noisier places in the winelands.
The location also makes it super convenient for exploring the region, in particular the architecture along the 12km main drag, which comprises examples of
Cape Dutch, Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco.
From this launching pad, visitors can fill their itineraries with outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking, historic walking tours, the gentler pursuits of wine tasting at surrounding farms or a tour of the KWV Wine Emporium (the organisation is celebrating its centenary this year), sporting events and festivals.
Or simply embrace your inner cat and sit in the sun.
Address: Laborie Estate, Taillefer Street, Paarl Telephone: 021 807 3095 Email: reservations@ laborieestate.co.za
Website: www.laborieestate. co.za