organic wine farm stay
When Gregory Brink Louw inherited Silvermist Boutique Hotel from his father, Architect and Property Developer Alan Gregory Louw, who had repurposed their family home in 1984, he had his sights set on planting vines to disrupt the local wine industry from an ethical perspective. Now, winemaker Gregory and his wife Tessa make organic wine that is reserved for the guests staying at Silvermist and those visiting the farm. The 20 acre property also boasts a herd of sheep, some ducks, a small produce patch that both Silvermist and La Colombe make use of. There are also a few hiking trails framed by indigenous fynbos on the property.
The Manor Garden Suite stands as an homage to the original manor house; can host two people in a king-size bed or two twin beds and has a terraced balcony with a view of the tall trees on the property. Redout is the luxury garden suite with a small fireplace in the lounge area that also has a desk area just off the bathroom. Light pours into this room from the french doors that open out into a patio as well. Longkloof is the hotel’s only corner room of which affords 180 degree views of the property; it too has a fireplace. The deluxe garden suite, Constantiaberg, is named after the stunning mountain range that Silvermist uses as a backdrop. The entire design reflects this in the stone tiling and dark wooden finishes. This suite is intimate and perfect for couples.
The second deluxe garden suite, Vlakkenberg, is similarly sized and reflects the vibrant Heorikwaggo hiking trail above the hotel.
Squirrel and Owl are the two ridge suites situated higher up on the estate, separate to the main house. Squirrel boasts a balcony, courtyard, outside shower, spacious lounge area and dining table for two. Owl overlooks the Orange Kloof Valley. If you’re lucky you can enjoy an owl sighting of your own at dusk, or hear them calling in the evening. This nest includes private parking for guests as well as a balcony, separate dining area and wooden deck.
Breakfast is served from the charming pool house every morning. On days when the weather allows for it, tables can be brought outside so guests can enjoy an al fresco breakfast. For any other meals, venture into Constantia or even Hout Bay which is itself 8km away. While La Colombe is Silvermist’s neighbour, the fine dining restaurant is always booked well in advance, so don’t expect to be assured a table just because you are staying at the hotel.
As an entertainment offering, Silvermist Boutique Hotel has partnered with Drumstruck to create a memorable and immersive experience for guests. Also found 300 meters from the hotel itself, the founder Warren Lieberman curated an African drumming theatre which begins with a wine tasting of Silvermist wines followed by an interactive storytelling session detailing how the African drum was born. You can book a day tour with them when you check in or via the website.
Children: Families travelling with children are welcome. Specify the age of the children when making the booking at either a separate bed or cot can be made available.
Sustainability: Silvermist Wine Farm, where the hotel can be found, is an organic wine farm that produces small batches for the staying guests.
Ethicality: 90% of the staff are people of colour from the area who have been working with the couple for more than 7 years.
Mobility: All rooms are wheelchair accessible, however the breakfast area can only be accessed by a flight of stairs so those guests might have some difficulty