R&R at Rivierbos
2012-05-24 12:46
Situated just off Dorp Street on the banks of Stellenbosch's famous Eerste River, Rivierbos guesthouse offers both a tranquil escape from the bustle of everyday life and a gateway to the manifold wonders of the winelands capital.
Whether your purpose is work or pleasure, the stately guesthouse offers the best sort of welcome after a long day of busyness: tremendously pretty gardens, a clear blue pool to fend off the Boland heat, and rooms that hover on the perfect meridian between cozy and luxurious.
Although the grading on the shiny wall plaque labels it a 3-star establishment, the impeccable service, generous hospitality, personal touches and delicious breakfasts are top class and refreshing. Furthermore the provision of safe parking just a step or two from the front door andfree wi-fi for all guests adds to the overall appeal.
Accommodation
Rivierbos boasts 12 tastefully decorated non-smoking guest rooms, each with en suite bathroom. There are 5- double and 7 twin rooms, each equipped with a flatscreen TV, tea/coffee making facilities, hair-dryer, cooling fan, air-conditioning and wall-mounted heating panel. Fun paintings by Portchie, red throws and classic scatter cushions offer a colourful balance to the pristine white bed linen.
Dining
While a generous continental breakfast is included in room rates, the guesthouse does not offer any other dining options. This, however, should not be seen as a drawback, but rather an opportunity to explore Stellenbosch's unbelievable array of restaurants, coffee shops and delis in a mere 1km radius. If you're looking for something lovely for lunch, a quick walk down the road will bring you to the Blue Orange, a farm stall type coffee shop and restaurant with fresh and delicious fare. Otherwise Ginos pizzeria, Cupcake coffee shop, and Melissa's are all close by. And so is De Akker pub if you feel like a real student town classic. Of course, if you feel like a little more of an adventure, head out to one - or a few - of the surrounding wine farms.
For dinner, the Rivierbos staff highly recommend Jan Cats restaurant, situated within the stunning and historic Stellenbosch Hotel. And with good reason. The restaurant offers a varied and delectable menu with anything from dainty tappas to succulent steaks... and burgers! Don't forget their legendary burgers.
Charm
What makes Rivierbos a choice option for anyone who wishes to explore the winelands from a comfortable base camp is the fact that it offers way more than it lets on. On arrival, it may not look like anything more than a beautiful house at the end of a cul-de-sac, but once you depart its fresh and friendly approach will stick with you for a long time to come.
For more information visit the Rivierbos website.
