CAPE TOWN DIVA: A Staycation at the Montagu Hotel

Halfway between Cape Town and the Garden Route lies the pretty village of Montagu and the elegant Montagu Country Hotel (MCH). I've stayed there every August since 2012 - when I'm in town to adjudicate the vibrant annual youth festival. The visit (to the fest and the hotel) is a highlight on my calendar and the MCH has become a home away from home.

The Montagu Country Hotel is another beautiful Cape 'Staycation' option. You know, one of the fabulous places you can escape to for some downtime, mid week or weekend. It's a mere 2 hour drive from the Mother City via the famous Route 62.

Gert Lubbe, the owner of the hotel, is a gracious host. He has transformed the MCH into a destination in itself. The Art Deco building is iconic and the interior is filled with beautiful pieces of art and furniture. The staff are welcoming, nothing is too much trouble. This is hospitality at its best.

Montagu itself is the gateway to the Klein Karoo, surrounded by mountains and gorgeous at any time of the year. And wine...there are excellent experiences to be had close by, at estates like Springfield (two of my fave wines are Life From Stone and The Work of Time) in Robertson .

On their website, the MCH points out that you can taste wine on a barge, have sundowners on the river and even have dinner served while drifting down a stream. Another unique way to explore the town and area is in one of the hotel's American Dream Cars....such a treat. All must-have adventures I'd say.

There is a lot to do in Montagu people, from hot springs, to mountain bike trails, walks and more - have a squizz at the tourism site and go exploring!

27 Bath Street, Montagu | +27 23 6143125| res@montagucountryhotel.co.za