By Marica

Next week Tuesday is Woman’s Day. Rose asked me if I had any special plans and I replied with my customary “Not really”. Now in my household public holidays come and go – my time is usually usurped by doing chores I couldn’t get around to doing the week before. Rose commented on the fact that she wished we could celebrate Woman’s Day over a period of two days, as that would afford her the opportunity of jumping in the car and heading inland for a much-needed break.

We then started playing the “what if” game – IF we had the time and the bucks where would we want to wake up the morning of the 9^th…

My choice was clear – I had come across a beautiful little rustic cottage on a guest farm in Moorreesburg earlier in the year whilst planning an Easter vacation getaway. Due to its popularity, the cottage was already booked for that specific holiday and we had to make other accommodation arrangements. I however, promised myself that I would, when the opportunity presents itself in the future, book the cottage for a quiet country escape.

Now what makes this particular cottage so special? Where to start…

Witklip Guest Farm is located in the beautiful Swartland region and is just one hour’s drive from Cape Town. It is grain and canola country which along with the surrounding mountains make for a stunning backdrop to your tranquil country retreat.

“Die Withuis”, as the cottage is called, is beautifully decorated in what can be described as a rustic shabby chic meets minimalist country style. The cottage has all the amenities you would expect from a modern self-catering unit, without losing its traditional farmhouse charm – most of the lighting is provided by paraffin lamps and candles.

The house even has its own organic vegetable garden which guests can pick from during their stay! (Yeah you heard right) You can now probably understand why I am smitten with this place – seriously, I wish I could move in there permanently!

Rose’s Choice: a Pamper-filled day at The Twelve Apostles Hotel

This is what Rose had to say about her chosen “What If” location:

“There is nothing more refreshing than escaping the everyday hustle and bustle of the city. Hence my choice of the Twelve Apostles Hotel for my day of R & R. In terms of its location – it has the amazing mountain right behind it (for a walk) and stands on the edge of the ocean (you literally cross the road). It is out of the city precinct as such, with far less traffic to be found.

There is a complete “Country Getaway” ambience about its setting. You can sit on the balcony, sip your drink and stare out at the vast ocean or eat in the finely decorated restaurant.

The decor is always a critical factor for me, and this hotel has in recent years had its upgrade, which leaves me as a guest, just revelling in that deluxe feeling of being totally spoilt.

The spoil continues on – the hotel has a gorgeous and well known Spa. I could ramble on and on about this, but I think you get the picture. It has and continues to be one of my favourite city hotels (with the illusion of being in the country).”

Sigh, if only…

And that is where Rose and I would want to wake up Woman’s Day morning. What are your plans for Woman’s Day? If you have anything special planned do share it with us (hopefully not laundry and vacuuming). However, if like us, you are spending Woman’s Day at home, tell us all about your dream “What If” spot!

Have a pamper-filled Woman’s Day ladies! (P.S. Gents, you still have a week to plan something special for the lady in your life…jump)

Witklip Guest Farm: Website

Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa: Website