Seidelberg

Living in Gauteng, South Africa, I am always eager for the opportunity to visit the Western Cape and the Winelands of Paarl – leaving behind the concrete jungle where people have little time to enjoy each other’s company and the overall atmosphere is one of aggressive competitiveness.

A number of people living in Paarl had told me that Seidelberg stands out in terms of breathtaking views, quality wines, fine dining and general hospitality, but this was my first visit to this historic wine estate.

I stayed in one of the 4 star luxury cottages, The Stable, and felt at home the moment I walked through the door into the spacious and beautifully decorated main room. With a king-sized bed, massive bathroom, kitchen and loft room, this cottage offers a comfortable luxury for up to 4 people, and I had the whole place to myself! With wireless internet, satellite TV, CD player, a log fire place and an indoor dining table, as well as two outdoor breakfast/kick-back areas, it caters for all personalities.

The view of the vineyards rolling down the valley, with the backdrop of farmlands, majestic mountains and Table Mountain in the distance took my breath away. You can throw open the French doors, let in the clean Cape air, listen to the birds, and watch the squirrels frolic on the manor lawns amongst the giant oak trees. The sunsets are truly spectacular, so be sure to take your camera.

But Seidelberg is more that its views, everything seems to come together here to provide an experience you won’t soon forget!

The people you will meet are genuinely hospitable, humble and approachable. The owner, Roland Seidel treats his guests like family, and his staff will always stop to greet you with a smile and a chat. Special thanks goes to Carol Maggs (Sales & Marketing Manager) and Chanda Brozio (PA/PR) who went out of their way to make me feel welcome and spoilt!

With a selection of over 30 different wines to choose from, ranging from Dry Whites and Reds (single vineyard and blends), Methode Cap Classique and Sparkling wines, Rosé, Fortified and semi sweet, you will certainly be spoiled for choice.

You won’t go hungry either. The on-site culinary offering includes a deli-counter where you can enjoy a casual feast of Piadina (Italian flat bread folded with varieties of delicious filling of your choice) or platters served with Ciabatta bread on the lawn or under the Pergola. You can also enjoy fine cuisine at the De Leuwen Jagt Restaurant which provides both indoor dining and outdoor terraces shaded by the 300 year old oaks. Great food paired with Seidelberg’s fine selection of wines - you are bound to pick up a kilo or two.

Seidelberg is a place where people from near and far gather to live life to its fullest, a place where friendly pets play on the lawn with the Seidel family’s Bouviers and where a history of over 300 years has left its mark – an atmosphere of traditional values and warmth.

I can state with absolute conviction that it was a worthwhile visit and one I would like to repeat in the near future.

Martle Heynes