Serenely secluded among the vines, within Franschhoek’s famed wine valley, Colmant Manor House offers the sort of privacy we yearn for when on a voyage to the Cape Winelands. With easy access to the prestigious perks of the revered village, you and the quaffing clan can retreat in splendid isolation. An expansive villa, exclusively yours.
Four generous ensuite bedrooms stagger themselves across the two levels of this beautifully-built hideaway. The atmosphere strikes a perfect note between sophistication and a sneaky rebellion. Courtesy of Etienne Hanekom’s expertise in bringing an interior space to life. It’s refined and considered. Evocative and calming. The linens and textiles sigh with softness, and the palette reflects the tones and textures of the winelands countryside. The living, dining, cooking and entertaining areas are designed for long conversations that lead to longer evenings. Always managing to escort your gaze in the direction of the landscape.
There’s a farm feel to its spaces, that doesn’t detract from the opulence that’s been earnestly invested into Colmant Manor House. Avenues of ancient oak trees. Acres and acres of vines. Rows and rows of roses. So many differing varieties of roses, it’ll take you a week to smell them all. Mountain views that engulf the indoor and outdoor spaces, leaving little but air between you and their peaks. The lawns and languid lounging areas around the swimming pool and jacuzzi are as inviting as the luxurious beds.
A symphony of luxury, creatively composed
Arrivals at Colmant Manor House are suitably celebratory. A flute of Colmant Cap Classique in one hand, and freshly baked goods in the other. Given the incredible service on offer, the concierge will have your requirements noted. Some might prefer a crafted cocktail or a local brew upon arrival. Seasonal fine-dining menus created by the chef in accordance with your palates. Wine pairings on a whim, at your liking of location. If the mood strikes, wander out into the vines for a picnic, or a private cellar tour where you get to discover that bubbles are indeed a serious business here.
Should inspiration in the kitchen fail to arise, a chef can be summoned for anything. From a tasting menu to a casual braai, all the prep discreetly handled. There’s the reassuring sense that someone has already thought of everything. The concierge is your quiet co-conspirator in indulgence. Vineyard tram bookings, art tours, guided hikes, helicopter flights, or even a cooking class with a local culinary talent.
Throughout the property, the sense of place is as considered as the service. Local artisanal pieces on the walls, seasonal collaborations in the kitchen, pillow menus and pre-arrival preferences, really do make the house feel distinctly yours. The team at Colmant Manor House like to call it a home away from home. But that’s only if your home happened to sit on a sparkling wine estate, with impeccable taste, inimitable views, and no other neighbours in sight.
Written by Colleen Ogilvie