The Alphen Boutique Hotel in Constantia has long been my go-to destination for business lunches, mainly because of the opportunity to wine and dine outdoors beneath the oak trees on the sweeping verandah of this 17th-century treasure.
The setting is quite magnificent and the staff have always delivered a service to match the fine fare at La Belle Bistro and Bakery, one of three restaurants at this Kove Collection property. It was also the breakfast venue after a one-night invitational where, much to my delight, my favourite options of fresh fruit, pastries and coffee were served before I even looked at the menu. They’re simply part of the package.
The real surprise, I must admit, was the accommodation. It’s the kind of space I’d be hard-pressed to leave if I wasn’t on a schedule. The sumptuous décor combines modern and classic styles so engaging I spent a lot of time admiring every detail of the opulent bathrooms with their rain showers and underfloor heating, the views out to the beautifully kept gardens and terraces, and languishing in the king-size bed with its 300 thread count percale linen of 100% Egyptian cotton. It’s no wonder I actually had a brilliant night’s sleep!
For more information visit The Alphen Boutique Hotel’s website.