The Devon Valley Hotel

This was our first stay in South Africa, and within hours of arriving at Devon Valley we knew it would not be our last. This hotel is a hidden gem, set in the beautiful vineyard country close to Stellenbosch. I wish there were more stars to give the staff who made our stay such a joy. Special mentions to Edgar, the manager of the fabulous Flavours restaurant, and Juliano in the bar who could mix the perfect gin martini. I’m sorry I can’t remember her name but the lady on reception was also super helpful organising us a wine tour with a local guide. The hotel is idyllic, with a great terrace where you can enjoy a meal or drinks while enjoying the magnificent views. We also partook in a wine tasting experience with canapés of some local wines, with Juliano giving us lots of info and also being great company. Stellenbosch was an easy 5 minute drive and Franschoek around 40 minutes through fabulous scenery. We went on a Friday which was market day where the quality of goods on offer were great. We spent 3 nights here at the beginning of a 2 week holiday around the Cape and are already planning our return with at least 5 nights at Devon Valley.

Beautiful views

It is close enough to Cape Town and Stellenbosch, but isolated enough to really feel like a break away.

Beautiful garden, outside restaurant and rooms.

We were pleasantly surprised to arrive at ‘Devon Valley Hotel’ to find an establishment surrounded by lovely gardens and fine views over the valley and vineyards. Having presented ourselves at reception we were assisted by a very capable and gracious young man named Wayne and offered a glass of refreshing wine. The accommodation was spacious, perfectly clean, stylishly decorated with upmarket furnishings and finishes and the beds very comfortable. We enjoyed a lovely supper in the attractively styled restaurant that overlooks the garden before retiring for the night. In the morning - we enjoyed a generous buffet-styled breakfast, with a variety of tasty options. The restaurant staff were helpful and efficient. I can readily recommend a stay at Devon Valley Hotel.

The television set’s picture was grainy and unwatchable. Using the shower caused the tiled floors and toilet to becoming wet. I know it is the trend these days not to have shower doors, but this arrangement is wholy and annoyingly impractical. Failing which - why not provide a squeegee, of the kind I found used all over Israel in bathrooms. Although we declined the offered help with our suitcases, this was a mistake as the walk to our rooms was long and tedious, first through the main hotel, then along the corridor of the annex, over some rather dodgy paving and on to the far side of our block.

Location was good and easy access to local facilities Breakfast was a little disappointing as if you arrived after 900am. Heated item's were dried up and not hot.

Lunchtime was somewhat hectic with delays due to convention meetings.