Akademie Street Boutique Hotel

Akademie street is a real gem of a hotel. We would not normally stay in a boutique hotel but we are certainly delighted that we did. From the moment we arrived we were made to feel more than welcome. Our bedroom was very large, decorated in quaint old French style. The bed was extra large, with an electric blanket - although we didn't need that! There was even a stove to heat the room in the winter. We had doors which opened onto a small private courtyard and a door which led straight to the swimming pool and hot tub. Everything was included, all snacks, spirits and even sparkling wine in the mini bar. Breakfast was a glorious affair, served around the pool with a wide variety of cold dishes served first, followed by a number of cooked dishes, including vegetarian. In case you hadn't had sufficient there were pastries to follow and as much coffee as you like, plus sparkling wine. The sun loungers around the pool were luxurious with deep mattresses , there was a basket with extra towels and sun screen and sun hats were placed on the loungers. We were offered drinks around the pool, all at no extra cost and sundowners early evening. Whist the hotel doesn't provide evening meals it is in within easy walking distance of the restaurants and on returning you can have a nightcap. Laundry was completed quickly and efficiently at no cost. Every single member of staff treated us like old friends, we could not have asked for more. One morning we asked for suggestions of what we should see and were directed to the Huguenot museum and memorial - tickets from the museum cost ZAR 100 - less than 5. It is well worth a visit if you are in the area and on leaving you can turn right a few steps up the road, turn right past the bowling club and you will find Le Lunde wine estate. We spent a pleasant lunchtime tasting their Cap Classique with a plate of cheese. Do try to get to Akademie Street if you are heading to Franschhoek - you will not be disappointed