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When Coopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel decided on “Where the comfortable becomes the remarkable” as their motto, it seems it's not only something they believe in but also something they're striving towards.
Situated in the heart of Stellenbosch’s shopping district, one can be forgiven for feeling as if you've just been transported to a different time and place when entering Coopmanhuijs’s doors - which makes it perfect for a stay-cation Winelands escape.
I accepted an invitation to experience the this historic winelands hotel, and from the first welcoming smile, the staff makes every effort to ensure your stay is as comfortable and as homely as possible.
The hospitality appears to filter from Coopmanhuijs’s manager Ilzebet O (sic), who not only makes you feel welcome, but ensures that even the smallest request is granted.
Poolside at Coopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel - Zulfa Petersen
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The hotel, which was built in 1713 and has undergone a few renovations, has certainly maintained a feeling of nostalgia. The hotel has managed to capture the charm of a bygone era through every detail, from the amazing bar area to the antique taps in the bathroom, one can see that they've gone to painstaking attention-to-detail lengths.
The bedrooms are spacious and have all the needed amenities, even free wifi for those who want to stay connected.
Letting your hair down is easy - Zulfa Petersen
There is also an in-house spa, which can add any cherry to a break from city life. After receiving a treatment at the spa, the pool area gives residents another chance to relax.
Dinner at Coopmanhuijs’ Helena’s Restaurant is an amazing experience. Voted as one of the best restaurants in Stellenbosch, one can see why. Patrons are able to enjoy their meal both in the restaurant and outside. Dinner is served from 18:30 till around 21:30, but even though the kitchen closes, you are encouraged to stay and enjoy the summer evening ambiance.
The menu, which is not extensive, does offer a lovely variety of dishes. Situated on the wine route, it is no surprise the wine menu is enough to make any wine lover come back for more.
Also see: 12 pics that will make you want to explore Stellenbosch
From the line fish to the stuffed quail, the dishes are presented in an excellent manner. Because Helena’s wants to be able to give patrons a well-rounded experience, waitrons are also well-trained in wine pairing and know exactly what to recommend with your dish.
Adding to the atmosphere, buskers wonder through the streets serenading the patrons, which is an enjoyable accompaniment to a great meal.
Like supper, breakfast at Helena’s is the perfect way to start off your day. Served in the Breakfast Room one is spoiled for choice, from the selections of cheeses, baked breads and a chef who is able to whip your eggs, anyway you like it.
Coopmanhuijs is also perfectly situated in Church Street, for those who want to see what the rest of Stellenbosch has to offer. The streets are splashed with boutique shops, art galleries and there’s a coffee shops on every corner - which is enough to keep any tourist busy.
Across the road is the Village Museum, which gives visitors a taste of what life was like when settlers moved to Stellenbosch. Even the staff members are dressed in age appropriate attire.
But like any visit to the wine route, wine tasting is not out of your reach. But since Coopmanhuijs does not offer any wine tasting tours, they are happy to help you book one at any of the nearby farms.
Coopmanhuijs is 45 minutes outside of Cape Town so it's even ideal for a day-trip. Just note if you’re visiting the restaurant, finding parking around the hotel can be tricky, but they do offer free valet parking for guests of the hotel.
Contact info:
Check-in: 14:00, Check-out: 11:00
Room rates are R1 960 per couple, including bed and breakfast
For more information visit: www.coopmanhuijs.co.za or call 021 883 8207
