Taaibosch: Manor House

Taaibosch sits on the slopes of the Helderberg overlooking a patchwork of vineyards and mountains. Bought by a French wine-making family, the boutique wine estate has been meticulously converted to organic farming; the superb terroir producing its renowned Crescendo blend.

Sitting amid the vineyards and old oak trees are three accommodation options. The manor house, which dates to 1838 and provides a wonderful old-world charm, and two luxurious contemporary villas (Garden and Farsight) further up the slopes of the Helderberg. Lounging beside the pool, listening to birdsong in the fynbos, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.

Beautiful kitchens, dining and braai areas make entertaining a breeze, and there’s also the option of hiring a private chef for one or more meals, including a traditional braai or potjie.

Once you’ve explored the mountain trails leading from the estate, the Winelands is your oyster for all types of outings. But do leave time for lazy siestas, evenings playing board games and golden sundowners with a glass of the superb estate wine.

THE LODGINGS

With a thatched roof, green doors and shutters, and ancient oak trees, the 1838 Manor House has been home to generations of families, retaining a sense of timeless peace and gracious living. Sweeping lawns, a long terrace and a private pool courtyard make for easy summer entertaining and leisurely get-togethers with extended family or a group of friends; the vines and mountain views providing a scenic backdrop to life on this working wine farm.

Indoor living

• 5 bedrooms: 1 with king bed, 2 with queen beds, 2 with twin/king beds
• 5 ensuite bathrooms (rain showerheads and hand-held showers)
• Air-conditioning and heating
• Fully equipped kitchen with Nespresso machine and dishwasher
• Laundry with washing machine and tumble dryer
• Lounge with fireplace, smart TV and board games
• Wireless sound system
• Dining room with large dining table
• Daily turndown service

Outdoor living

• Braai area
• Outdoor dining area
• Private swimming pool with pool loungers
• Lush gardens

Good to know

• Option of hiring a private chef for one or more meals (additional cost)
• Grocery shopping (10% service fee)
• Minibar setup (fully charged)
• Helipad for fly-in visits

THINGS TO DO

On the property

• In-house yoga sessions and spa treatments (additional cost)
• Bird watching
• Hiking, mountain-biking and trail running
• Swimming
• Restaurant at Pink Valley (next door to Taaibosch)

In the area

• Top wine farms and restaurants
• Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden
• Shops, restaurants, museums and art galleries in Stellenbosch
• Jonkershoek Nature Reserve
• Horse-riding
• Golf