Serenely settled in the Stellenbosch wine region, on the verdant slopes of Devon Valley – where the vineyards sprawl the hilltops, the ancient oak trees line the river banks and the fruit orchards scatter themselves around the undulating landscape – Brenaissance Manor House beckons you in to an evocative space of grandeur, opulence and sophistication. A historical farm house that has been ardently restored and brought to life in its baronial attire, discreetly resting on the lavish grounds of Brenaissance Wine & Stud Estate.
As the name suggests, Brenaissance Manor House gives reference to a place of new beginnings. Where one can venture to, leaving all redundant thoughts on the road. Arriving at a destination that instantaneously embraces you in its romance, simultaneously setting you free into the abounding landscape. Its three ensuite bedrooms position themselves around the helm of the home. Where you and your mighty clan can gather, pivoting from the magnificent kitchen into the living spaces, the laidback and formal dining areas, the long stoeps and secluded seating spots. All done with ease as you wade through the open spaces that are stitched together with an apparent distinction in design. Bold statements in materials and textures, colours and tones are all met with a timeless elegance. A gym – which can be converted into an extra bedroom – and a separate loft room with its own little kitchenette can turn your numbers into a jovial multigenerational get-together.
Perhaps that’s what the owners of this beautiful estate envisioned when nurturing the historical dorphuisies back to life. To allow friends and families to gather on the grounds of the wine farm. Surrounded by mountains and vineyards, Boran beef fields and equestrian paddocks. Plum orchards and indigenous gardens, flowing streams and veggie patches. You’ll experience some tasting at the deck, beside the flowing stream. Make a little visit to the wedding chapel – just because – and venture into the hills for long walks. You’ll dine at the estate’s restaurant or put on a celebration in one of their venues. You’ll also be inclined to simply relax beside the swimming pool, cocooned by the thick green hedges. Prepare the next feasting in the sensational kitchen. The pantry, the scullery, the walk-in wine cellar, the appliances and the finishings that are all so easy-on-the-eye, there’ll be that classic case of too many cooks, what’s happening to the broth scenario. The home generously extends itself as a magnificent place to entertain. To set up a little home office for weeks on end. To explore the Stellenbosch wine region from, as you set-up camp in a rather handsome quarter of the valley. Mostly, though, you’ll be ensconced in utter luxury, as you take in that sublime valley atmosphere, allowing a momentous start to all things new. What an exciting adventure Brenaissance Manor House has tickled out of you, and your almighty clan.
What we love!
- The wonky ware crockery and kitchen essentials that are supplied, making this home an absolute treat for all foodie fanatics to work their magic in the kitchen.
- Eating breakfast outside of the kitchen, adjacent the herb, veggie and fruit garden, with the birds tweeting away in the morning sunshine.
- All of the fine touches, the contemporary furnishings sitting adjacent antiques, the beautiful pieces of art and incredible sculpture by Tobey McGaw.
- Brenaissance Manor House is an ideal place to settle, whatever the season. Catered to every kind of weather, you can light the fires, fold or extend the American shutters on the verandah, cool yourselves in the comfy living spaces and spend as much time as you wish in the swimming pool that can be heated or not.
What you need to know…
- The lovely housekeeper, Patience takes care of the home, every day.
- The property lends itself as a great space to host larger groups. You can convert the gym into an extra bedroom and the loft space with its own kitchenette is ideal for teenagers, or an au pair.
- There’s a fantastic study that’s perfectly suited to those who’d like to venture somewhere spectacularly beautiful for a month of remote-working.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie