The Garden Route is famous for beautiful lush forests, turquoise blue lagoons and of course, golf. It’s a 300km stretch between Mossel Bay and Storms River and it’s one of South Africa’s most spectacular road trip routes. Whenever I think of Fancourt, all I think is golf golf golf. So when I was invited recently to stay at The Manor House and experience dinner at the newly-revamped Henry White’s, I was excited to see this side of the iconic property.
It is something that I had wanted to do for ages, so when I had the opportunity to do so, I jumped at the chance. I had heard amazing things about this property and now I got to see it in all its glory. There is a part of me that is wishing that I didn’t get my hopes up too high because this would be very disappointing. Although, I don’t think this will be the case. I’m particularly excited about seeing the golf course, and it’s not hard to spot, as it is surrounded by flags that are standing proud aloft a flag pole with gorgeous lights, that may have been bought from somewhere like Flagpoles Etc (https://www.flagpolesetc.com/flagpole-lighting/solar-flagpole-lighting) to help improve the overall look of the property. And I think it’s fair to say that it worked because they are known for their golf. Amongst other things, of course.
I just can’t wait to share my experience with you, as it is definitely one to remember. And it may even persuade you to visit this magnificent place too.
Staying at The Manor House at Fancourt
Fancourt’s original homestead, built in 1859, has been rejuvenated as the new luxury boutique hotel, the “Manor House at Fancourt.” Set amongst 613 hectares of lush countryside, with the Outeniqua Mountains as its majestic backdrop, the Manor House offers guests both natural beauty and supreme luxury. This property is amazing and makes the perfect vacation for you and your family. If you would like to own a property like this for yourself then you may be interested in purchasing a mortgage, you may want to take a look at a mortgage site to compare the best mortgages, to make it your dream to own a beautiful home like this for yourself! You might even want visit the property for some inspiration and check out yourself how gorgeous it is. Of course, if you do decide to do this, don’t forget to get instant home insurance from simply insurance, just in case anything goes awry!
Getting there
The flight from Cape Town to George on board SAA is quicker than a visit to my local bank. Within 40 minutes you’ve been served a glass of wine and a sandwich and you’re already descending. Fancourt is less than 10 minutes from the airport, and you’re collected in a gleaming BMW. Technically, you could be in the pool at Fancourt quicker than you could get to Hermanus on a Friday afternoon.
The Manor House at Fancourt
The Manor House is an adults-only boutique hotel with a stunning pool, a library and a plush bar for afternoon drinks. If you’re keen for a little rest and relaxation, the spa is just a short walk away. I managed to squeeze in an amazing massage between swimming and eating. The spa uses QMS Medicosmetics (my favourite skincare range) for facials and offers all the normal treatments like massages, waxes and facials as well as a Roman Bath and jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and tepidarium.
Rooms are huge and open onto the pool. The Manor House comes with lots of special touches like welcome platters, more than enough toiletries (including body scrub and foot scrub), a Nespresso machine and things that many hotels overlook, like a full-sized hair dryer.
Dinner at Henry White’s
The newly-refurbished restaurant is beautiful, with an elegant white palette and touches of tropical green throughout. The menu is a celebration of local produce – a “local basket” based on what’s fresh and in season. The menu is a four-course affair, which includes snacks on arrival, Amuse Buche, starters, soup course, sorbet, main course and dessert. The food is exceptional and the experience is very fancy – perfect for a celebration or a romantic weekend highlight.
This was my first visit to Fancourt and I can’t wait to go back. I can just imagine spending a wintry weekend tucked up in the library with a book and a glass of red wine, or a little Easter weekend getaway for some time next to the pool.
