Schoone Oordt Country House

Schoone Oordt Country House is a charming, rural hotel set in a leafy garden in Swellendam in the Western Cape. At this Victorian townhouse, the focus is on luxury, elegance, quality and attention to the little things. The house was lovingly and dedicatedly renovated by Richard and Alison Walker.

Accommodation is available in eight Luxury Rooms, a Honeymoon Suite and two Family Suites which are more private and separate from the other guest rooms. All rooms are beautifully decorated for guests' convenience and boast unique, restored antiques with a Victorian feel to complement the building. All rooms have air-conditioning, a bar fridge, tea- and coffee-making facilities, satellite TV, an electronic safe, underfloor heating and heated towel rails in the bathrooms. The beds are made up of cotton percale linen and down duvets and there are embroidered gowns and slippers for that extra luxurious finish. The Luxury Rooms and Honeymoon Suite both have fireplaces.

The mansion boasts the most beautiful, sunny conservatory that Richard built in true English style. There is a fireplace-lit bar and lounge, an intimate dining room and a typical country kitchen. The warmth of the original wooden floors, ceilings and doors as well as the antiques create a wonderful, welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to return time and time again. Guests can also cool off in the sparkling saltwater pool.

Meals are prepared with much love and served in true Schoone Oordt style. Only the freshest and best quality products are carefully purchased from local suppliers, as well as fresh herbs and sometimes vegetables from the guest house's garden. Breakfast is a gourmet affair and this country hotel has become very popular as a result. Free afternoon tea with homemade salty and sweet snacks is served on sunny summer afternoons. In winter, guests are surprised on arrival with a free snack board and a warm welcome drink.