Whether you are on holiday, enjoying a romantic getaway or on a conference or business trip, St Francis Bay always provides among the best holiday experiences on the coast.
One of my favourite places to stay at in this charming town is at Dune Ridge Country House.
Hidden away in a thick fynbos behind St Francis Links, and within a few minutes’ drive of St Francis Bay’s famous beaches, this award-winning 4-Star lodge offers guests the peace and tranquillity of a remote farmhouse, but with modern hospitality and service.
With six double rooms and one family cottage, its Cape homestead-styled buildings, with their high roofs, spacious rooms, polished wood and large verandas, symbolise charm and comfort from a bygone era.
The bedrooms are spacious and sumptuously equipped – I always sleep like the dead each time we visit Dune Ridge. The bathrooms have huge tubs and showers as well as under floor heating, which is such a pleasure in winter. Each room also comes with a well-stocked mini-bar, a tea and coffee station and DSTV.
This comfort carries through to the main lounge area, which, with its huge stone fireplace, is furnished with large, deep Kudu-leather couches.
In winter, the fire is always crackling away and the lounge is a great place to enjoy a drink, play board games and chat with other guests.
The dining room, bar and deck are all adjacent to the lounge and stepping off the veranda you’ll find a beautiful indigenous garden with abundant birdlife and small game.
There is also plenty to keep you busy at Dune Ridge itself – from their Bush Spa, large swimming pool and a nature walk.
Interiors are a mix of past and present, with modern plush textural fabrics
I always enjoy relaxing on the private patio, reading or watching the sunbirds flitter from flower to flower, while the kids explore the ample grounds, play on the swings or have a dip in the pool.
Sarah, the manager, is also an accomplished chef and you should order her fresh wholesome African cuisines in advance. Breakfast is served in the dining area where each table is set with crisp linen, sparkling cutlery, warm muffins and freshly-squeezed orange juice. Eggs to your liking and bacon, mushrooms and tomatoes are on order too!
Dune Ridge is ideal for private small weddings, romantic honeymoons and secluded family holidays.
For more information, visit www.duneridgestfrancis.co.za or call 042 294 1560.
For great savings on life’s little pleasures visit Bargain Buys! Know somebody who is getting married, Wedding and Function can assist. Have kids, then you need to visit Kids Connection.
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