WINE VALLEY’S PRIDE

spot on.

Other noteworthy features in the room include underfloor heating, floor-sensor lights for those late-night bathroom trips and an automated TV cabinet at the end of the bed.

Each room is equipped to allow guests to play their choice of music from their phone or iPods as well as a preloaded mobile phone which guests can use to make calls, restaurant reservations and download applications free of charge.

Akademie is right in the centre of a culinary haven so lunch and dinner is not served at the hotel but guests are encouraged to visit one of the many top-rated restaurants that Franschhoek has to offer, which is within walking distance of the hotel.

The Huguenot Monument, a very popular tourist attraction, is also a stone’s throw from the hotel.

Before leaving the comfort of my room, I went to the function room where aperitifs are served at sundown every evening.

A pianist comes three times a week to serenade guests while they’re enjoying a glass of wine, or in my case a mojito.

When I returned from supper, I stopped by the function room again, this time for a night cap.

The wine was now replaced by a selection of whiskies which I enjoyed in front of the fireplace while listening to the sounds of Norah Jones playing softly in the background.

After a blissful night’s sleep, my stay came to an end with a delicious Sunday breakfast, which included a fresh fruit salad followed by a full Akademie breakfast, with eggs, bacon, sausage, tomato and herbs.

● For more information on Akademie Street Boutique Hotel visit their website at www.aka.co.za.

The Gelantenheid Cottage, a spacious two-storey country chic cottage, separated into A and B, offers privacy away from the main house.

Sundowners are the perfect way to end the day.