Living in busy, colourful Gauteng, it''s easy to forget that the peace and quiet of the countryside is only an hour away. Say hello to the why not weekend - the last minute getaway that you book when you just can''t take the pace anymore...or when you discover an irresistable place that demands more attention than a quick daytrip.
De Hoek Country Hotel is such a place. Nestled amongst large trees on the banks of a sparkling stream in the Magaliesberg, the main building looks like it has been taken right out of a Jane Austen novel, with its ivy-covered stone façade and an immaculate croquet lawn in front. As you step inside; beautiful wooden floors, fireplaces and groups of comfortable sofas are framed by tasteful décor and plenty of interesting books. The feeling of days gone by is enhanced by the High Tea; a delectable affair of tiny sandwiches, sweet temptations and a selection of tea served in dainty little cups.
The rooms are modern, but the old country house style has been preserved with exposed wooden beams in the ceiling. However, there is nothing ancient about the facilities! A Nespresso machine and a tin of freshly baked cookies; gorgeous (locally produced, of course) bathroom amenities; a soft-as-a-cloud bed; and kingsize bath and shower will keep you in complete comfort.
Owner Michael Holenstein is a renowned chef, and together with his talented team he serves up fresh, local produce in a modern interpretation. Most of the vegetables are grown in their own garden, and as much produce as possible is sourced from organic farms in the Magaliesberg area. Stocks and sauces are made fresh on the premises, as is the pasta. They also have a world-class pastry kitchen that makes all bread as well as the delicious treats served at High Tea, including the chocolate!
Chef Holenstein is passionate about helping young, aspiring chefs. He runs an internship programme at De Hoek in collaboration with HTA School of Culinary Art that aims at mentoring and supporting local talent committed to making cooking their profession. The best example of his passion to teach and mentor must be his Sous Chef, Esther Seroke. She started as a laundry assistant at De Hoek 19 years ago, and has worked her way through the scullery all the way to becoming Holenstein’s second in command.
If you''re looking for a relaxing getaway from the city, with gourmet food and country-fresh surroundings, De Hoek is your perfect why not weekend.
Click here to book accommodation at De Hoek Country Hotel
Kat Mancama is the author of My Slow Journey blog.
"I live in South Africa, one of the most beautiful, weird and wonderful places on earth, and many of my journeys are local. But I am from Sweden, my friends are scattered across the globe, and my husband and I love to travel, so I also go on longer journeys.
I live and breathe my passion for slow, both in my professional and private life. As a consultant for Sustainable Development in tourism, I help tourism businesses do good things, and I also apply the spirit of slow in my own life journeys."