To call Brookdale Estate a 'hidden gem' would not only be an understatement – it would be a disservice. This estate isn’t just a gem; it’s a sanctuary.
From the moment you pass through its grand double gates, Brookdale wraps itself around you like a warm, familiar embrace, effortlessly meeting your every need, want, and quiet desire. Here, time slows. The endless vineyards stretch out like a dream, and the gentle sound of jazz adds a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere from morning to evening.
Yes, it may sound like a cliché; but at Brookdale Estate, your worries truly do melt away. It’s a place where you breathe deeper, move slower, and reconnect with the beauty of stillness.
Why stay at Brookdale Estate's Manor House?
From the moment you arrive at Brookdale Estate in Paarl, you’re not just another guest – you’re THE guest. Everyone, from the security at the gate to the staff throughout the property, greets you by name and with genuine warmth. As you drive in, it feels like stepping into another world, one defined by quiet luxury, where the only sounds are birdsong and the flow of a nearby stream.
I won’t lie. There were moments when I felt like a celebrity. The moment I stepped out of the car at the Manor House, a team of smiling staff were already there, ready to welcome me. It was effortless, sincere, and immediately comforting. That’s the beauty of Brookdale, it has a way of making every guest feel seen, valued, and genuinely special.
Built in a modern Cape Dutch style, the Brookdale Manor House offers generous living spaces that include a luxurious lounge, a private library and entertainment room, a formal dining room, a sunny breakfast nook, a well-equipped kitchen, and a quiet study.
With its seamless blend of elegance, comfort, and thoughtful design, it’s no surprise that the Manor House was awarded top honours in the Accommodation category at the 2024 Best of Wine Tourism Awards.
What are the rooms like at Brookdale Estate's Manor House?
Every detail at Brookdale Manor House feels carefully considered. From underfloor heating in the bathroom to the pool bag and towel thoughtfully placed in your room, everything is designed for comfort and ease. Homemade complimentary treats, plush robes (yes, I Googled the brand because they’re that cosy), heated towel rails, even a delicate trinket dish beside the bath for your jewellery – it’s all there. The bath is deep enough to practically dive into, the carpets are unbelievably soft underfoot, and there’s a perfect balance between quiet luxury and minimalism. Even the TV is hidden away in a secret compartment to encourage you to truly switch off.
The Manor House has just six suites, which adds to its sense of privacy and intimacy. I stayed in the Manor Suite, which offered breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. And the bed? Don't even get me started. Imagine slowly sinking into a marshmallow. That’s what it felt like. As someone who usually struggles to fall asleep, I was out within minutes.
The mini fridge is thoughtfully stocked with a selection of wines and soft drinks, all of which can be tailored to your preference. Naturally, there’s also a cupboard featuring Brookdale Estate’s own gins and whiskies.
You might assume that a place this small would mean overhearing other guests, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The soundproofing is remarkable. If you don’t bump into other guests in person, you’d hardly know they were there at all.
What is the service like at Brookdale Estate?
I could easily write a 5,000-word piece on the service alone. As I mentioned earlier, everyone knows you by name, so there was no need to check in. I was warmly greeted by Binuel, who not only ensured that I had everything I needed but also welcomed me with homemade iced tea and refreshing cold towels before giving me a personal tour of the Manor. Meanwhile, Julian discreetly took care of the luggage, which was already waiting in the room by the time the tour concluded.
After settling in, I made my way to the pool, where a glass of bubbles soon appeared, followed by a personal introduction from General Manager Yvonne Coetzee. It was a small gesture, but one that perfectly illustrated how far the team goes to make you feel genuinely cared for.
A moment that truly stood out happened later that evening after dinner at the Bistro (more on that shortly). Chef Gary Coetzee personally offered me a ride back to the Manor and, during the drive, shared the story of how Brookdale Estate came to be.
And, yes, if you haven’t pieced it together already, Brookdale Estate is led by the Coetzee power couple: Yvonne, the General Manager, and Gary, the Chef.
What is the food like at Brookdale Estate?
For dinner, I headed to the Bistro, just a five to 10-minute walk from the Manor depending, of course, on how often you stop to ooh and ahh at the breathtaking views (I definitely did).
To start, I had Chef Gary’s famous spiced prawn risotto, and, honestly, I would’ve been content if that had been the only dish of the night. The risotto featured a perfectly battered prawn, a charcoal tuile, and a delicate saffron foam.
Time Out Insider Info: The prawn batter is made using a chilli-bite mix – a clever and delicious nod to Cape Malay flavours.
For mains, I tried two standout dishes: the Chicken Parmigiano, which was juicy and deeply comforting, and the tallow-aged Bonsmara sirloin, expertly cooked and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Naturally, dessert was non-negotiable and it did not disappoint. While I’m not gluten-free, the almond custard slice was delicious: gluten-free shortcrust, almond brittle wafer, tonka bean gelato, and a Grand Marnier gel that had me scraping the plate for every last morsel.
Prepared by the Manor’s Chef Jaylon, breakfast the next morning somehow made even the simplest of eggs feel luxurious enough to close your eyes and drift back into a dream.
It began with a zesty homemade apple and ginger shot, followed by a spread of freshly baked goods and seasonal fruit from the Paarl Winelands. Then came the hot breakfast: think homemade sausages, perfectly cooked eggs, crispy bacon, and hearty seasonal veg.
What activities are available at Brookdale Estate?
Guests are truly spoilt for choice, with a wide range of activities thoughtfully organised by the team either before or upon arrival. From wine tastings, swimming, and guided hikes to garden games, tractor rides, yoga, horse riding, and more. One of the estate’s greatest charms is the freedom it offers: do as much or as little as you please.
Why you should book a stay at Brookdale Estate
Brookdale Estate is the kind of place I believe everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. It has a way of making the everyday, ordinary person feel like the centre of the universe; even if only for a little while. And if I’m being honest, did I briefly consider the legal consequences of refusing to check out? Absolutely. But can you really blame me?
How to get to Brookdale Estate
- Take the N1 from Cape Town. Leave the N1 at junction 62A Sonstraal Road (This is the last junction before the tunnel).
- Turn left and follow Sonstraal Road across two 4-way junctions and on for about a further 1.5km.
- Just after passing the entrance to Ashanti Estate (on your right) you will see a right turn up the mountain called Hawequa Bos Pad (this is opposite Eben Haezer Farm).
- Hawequa Bos Pad becomes a gravel road. Continue for about another 1.5 km.
- Brookdale is on the right with a stone gate entrance, where security will sign you in.
- Follow the paved road to the junction at the bottom of the valley, keep going straight in the same direction downhill where it ‘splits’ and take the paved road over the little white bridge – marked with a white ornamental ball on either side.
- Continue and for the Manor House: look out for the turn-off to your right.
- For the Bistro, Tasting Room and Cellar: continue straight past the Manor House turn-off.
Need to know
Address: Hawequa Bos Pad, Klein Drakenstein Rd, Paarl
Price: Each suite accommodates two guests. Rates start from R8,400 per night, including full breakfast.
Book: Click here
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