Step into the main hall and be transported to a world of exquisite beauty, opulence and grandeur in

The sleepy, small town of Franschhoek bellagio hotel casino (literally French corner in Dutch) in South Africa bellagio hotel casino s Western Cape is one of the oldest in the country. While it s less than 75km from Cape Town, it feels world s away from the urban hustle. Crossing the border into Franschhoek, there s a palpable difference in the pace and tenor of [...]
The sleepy, small town of Franschhoek (literally French corner in Dutch) in South Africa s Western Cape is one of the oldest in the country. bellagio hotel casino While it s less than 75km from Cape Town, it feels world s away from the urban hustle. Crossing the border into Franschhoek, there s a palpable difference in the pace and tenor of life time seems to slow down a tick. There s a distinct whiff of What s your hurry? in the air.
It s no surprise then that South Africa s Royal Portfolio (the same folks behind the stunning Birkenhead House in Hermanus ) chose to open a stunning hotel here as well. But where Birkenhead is barefoot, contemporary, seaside luxury, La Residence (often called La Res for short) is well-heeled, rural country elegance with a slight hint of modernity.
in a class of its own. Located in the beautiful Franschhoek valley at the heart of a private 30-acre estate, this is a haven of luxury on every level. Surrounded by vineyards bellagio hotel casino and plum orchards, with a stunning mountain backdrop, La Residence enjoys breathtaking views of the unspoilt rural surrounds bellagio hotel casino and an atmosphere of complete tranquility.
Step into the main hall and be transported to a world of exquisite beauty, opulence and grandeur in this luxury Franschhoek hotel. Glittering Indian chandeliers bellagio hotel casino hang from the vaulted ceiling; original artwork and huge mirrors grace the walls; furnishings are plush, colourful and stylish. Elegant antiques and exquisite flowers create a feeling of refinement and sophistication.
I m unaware of a word that accurately describes how over-the-top beautiful the guestrooms are at La Residence. Opulent is somehow inadequate. Each room is individually decorated and personalized with a unique character and flavor.
My ground level Chambre Bleu Suite was decorated in bespoke Provençal antiques, velvets and silks. And a four-poster bed that was so high, it could very well have featured its own elevator for easy access (thankfully a footstool was provided). As a corner suite, it looks out onto the property towards either the perfectly manicured lawn to the dam or the onsite olive grove and mountains.
The bathroom was an affair unto itself two massive his/hers armoires, a desk, sitting area, ample soak tub, private veranda I could go on but you get the gist. (It s worth noting that I ve lived in apartments that occupied less space )
During the warmer months, take a dip in the stunning infinity pool or chill in a sun-lounger on the guest patio (or your own private veranda). bellagio hotel casino There s also a hotel spa offering a variety of treatments and massages. Or you can cycle or hike the estate grounds and take in the stunning landscape of olive trees, rose vines, and the winelands beyond.
bellagio hotel casino Visitors can also play golf, go trout fishing or quad-biking, paragliding, hot-air ballooning or take a horseback tour of the surrounding wine farms. For a more relaxing excursion, check out the horse-drawn carriage ride through the local village bellagio hotel casino or a ride on the Franschhoek bellagio hotel casino Wine Tram.
When winter (or what passes for cold weather by South African standards!) hits, relax with a book at the hotel library while enjoying a coffee bellagio hotel casino or cocktail (or both ) by the fire. La Res also offers complimentary transfer service into the nearby village where you can dine at any number of local gourmet restaurants. Or, for a truly posh Franschhoek experience, ask about their exclusive, private wine and cheese tastings at one of the nearby winelands.
I ve had the fortunate of visiting some pretty swank hotels around the world. But never have I called room service where they ve responded, Well to be honest. We don t really have a fixed menu. What do you feel like having tonight? Then the chef came down for a personal visit to discuss options bellagio hotel casino with me. Yeah it s that kind of place.
I opted for an insanely fresh fish and vegetable dish with some of the simplest, bellagio hotel casino most delicious ingredients. For dessert, I rounded things out with a lemongrass creme brulee presented on a gold table. Not unlike how I imagine the pharaohs ate in ancient Egypt.
From there, grab a rental car or, better yet, arrive in style with Avis Chauffeur Car Services . If you re planning a vineyard vacation already, why not go the distance and hire your own private chauffeur to cruise the countryside bellagio hotel casino in a brand new Audi, BMW or Mercedes ?
Vagabondish founding editor, Mike Richard, is a Rhode Island native, professional web designer and travel junkie with an unhealthy addiction to backpacking, hiking and seeing the world. He enjoys knit hats, small, declarative sentences and speaking in the third person. His professional credits include " Woman's World magazine contributor" bellagio hotel casino and having once been interviewed by Tyra Banks ( seriously ).