A fabulous winelands farmhouse for multigenerational family gatherings or milestone celebrations, in the heart of the valley of Stellenbosch.
There is an inimitable allure to Stellenbosch. Hailing as the OG of the Cape wine regions for its heritage, it’s a destination that exudes authenticity. Evident in its architecture and ancient oak avenues. Farming communities that date back hundreds of years settled around a buoyant university village that’s lauded for its world-class restaurants, cafés, curious boutiques and elegant homes. It’s a wondrous place that beckons the discerning palate to taste the grapes that have been plucked from the finest vines in the country.
Located at the very end of Devon Valley Road, resting on the slopes that neighbour some of the most celebrated wine estates in South Africa, Monticello is a graceful, glorified playground for large, multigenerational groups of friends and families to gather, and savour all that the Stellenbosch valley has to offer. Set on just over five hectares of Cabernet Franc vines, old olive groves and fruit orchards, vegetable gardens, rolling lawns, a dam, a soccer pitch and heated, saltwater swimming pool, this hideaway is a getaway gift that keeps on giving. Comprising of a manor house with large ensuite rooms and family suites enough to accommodate as many as 18 guests, a grand farm-style country kitchen, copious dining, entertaining and reclining rooms, long terraces and al fresco feasting spaces, cosy reading nooks, ample open fireplaces and a fabulous pizza oven. Each space beautifully appointed by the revered Cécile and Boyd.
With his farm-to-fork philosophy, the chef owner implores you and your clan to centre your experience at Monticello around food. Take to the grounds and picnic in the herb and vegetable garden, dine amongst the vines and settle around the many seating areas for hours on end as you marvel at the magnificent views that surround. You’re at liberty to self cater entirely, or make use of his culinary skills in the kitchen, having your meals tended to with an Italian~French finesse. There’ll be sustainably sourced, local produce from all areas of the province at the table too. The choice is yours. There are of course plenty of excursions away from the farm that you’ll enjoy participating in. Wine tasting and exploring the food culture of the valley. Hiking and biking trails, market visits and traversing the town. For everything else, and more than you could anticipate, Monticello awaits the unraveling of yet another gift. Evening pizzas under the pergola, night dips in the pool, games on the lawn and around the tables. You’ll be up early with the birds, meandering the vegetable garden with your hot brew, or sitting on the terrace watching the sun rise in all her splendour. What’s to come of the new day is unknown. An unwrapping of each moment; ribbons of new discoveries and gems of lifelong memories with the whole clan.
What we love!
- The abundance of picnic and dining spots scattered around the property where you can all gather and feast. Walking through the herb garden at dusk, picking lavender that’ll accompany your gin & tonic.
- Going for long walks around the farm, taking in the views and the magnificent, tranquil surroundings.
- You can also elect whether to have the owner dish up delectable dishes around the clock, being fully catered for, or just the breakfasts, or you can cater independently. You can even be that little bit more decadent and have the neighbouring wine farmers serve their vintages in the wine cellar.
- The farm manager resides on the premises, as well as the housekeeping staff, so all of your daily needs will be tended to.
What you need to know…
- Monticello is only a 15-minute drive from the fabulous restaurants, cafés, bakeries, boutiques, convenience stores and supermarkets of Stellenbosch. It is a 30-minute drive from the airport.
- Jordan Wine Estate is a 15-minute drive from the property for great wine tasting and an excellent pairing menu. Rust en Vrede is a 25-minute drive away, as well as Kanonkop and The Table at De Meye. There’s plenty to choose from on your daily excursions.
- Bertus Basson’s restaurants in the town are highly recommended to sample a South African stamp on fine dining.
- As well as all of the essential amenities, there is a fully-equipped gym and a games room on the property, to aid with all of the feasting and tasting.
- The rate includes a private chef service for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a menu designed around your personal preferences. Provisions are for guest’s accounts. Most of the veggies are grown on the farm and otherwise produce is sourced locally. You can even be that little bit more decadent and have the neighbouring wine farmers serve their vintages in the wine cellar.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie