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Eighteen months after a wildfire devastated one of the Cape’s oldest wine estates, boutique hotel Blaauwklippen Manor – which includes the historic Manor House and Jonkershuis — has reopened to guests.
Let’s turn back the clock to April 2024, though, when a massive fire caused extensive damage to two of the oldest buildings on what is one of the oldest wine farms in the Stellenbosch Winelands.
Time Out Trivia: Blaauwklippen was established in 1682, just three decades after Jan van Riebeeck sailed into Table Bay.
While many of the original gables were damaged beyond repair, an extensive rejuvenation project led by heritage specialists and conservation architects has restored this graceful Cape estate to its former glory, and Blaawuklippen Manor is once again welcoming guests to this scenic corner of Stellenbosch.
The new offering, run by Newmark Hotels, features 11 luxury rooms and suites across a variety of categories.
The Manor House now offers eight en-suite rooms across three categories, with two of those rooms opening onto charming private terraces. The revamped Jonkershuis is positioned as the more suite-style option, with three suites that each include a bedroom, lounge and bathroom. Gas fireplaces in each suite make for a seriously cosy winter stay!
But before winter arrives, those lucky enough to book in for the night will also love the expansive swimming pool, stylish pool lounge and bar. The pool area, like the accommodation, is an elegant take on classic Cape vernacular, with interiors done by Cape Town designer Francois du Plessis.
“We reintroduced a classic, luxurious feel that alludes to the estate’s history, complemented by a creative, colourful and slightly eclectic finish,” says Du Plessis. “We drew inspiration from the majestic surroundings at the foot of the Stellenbosch Mountains and incorporated prints that celebrate the region’s natural beauty.”
It’s also a celebration of an estate reborn, says Roelof van den Berg, Chief Executive Officer of Blaauwklippen: “Blaauwklippen has stood for resilience, enterprise and hospitality for over three centuries. The reopening of the Manor House and Jonkershuis is not simply about restoring buildings - it is about restoring a sense of place. These walls have welcomed travellers, thinkers and families for generations, and reopening them after such loss is a powerful reminder that heritage is something we actively carry forward.”
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