The Old Orchard, Kokstad

Not all who wander are lost

There is something about being close to water which is good for the soul. It is especially lovely being right down at the level of water, a feeling of floating with the ducks. Add to this experience a log cabin with tasteful décor and you have the makings of instant happiness. This is what I find outside the unassuming little town of Kokstad on the border of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

The Old Orchard is a busy little bed and breakfast situated a few kilometers outside the town, on a farm on the R56 to Matatiele. The lakeside log cabins are clustered on one side of the lake, near a restaurant and plunge pool, and they all overlook open hills and mountains beyond. The cottages each have a deck which extends out right over the water, where one can watch ducks move underneath and weavers building nests in the reeds alongside.

Inside, the thatched log cabins are cosy and pretty, with upholstered wingback armchairs and natural décor. There is white linen on the comfortable beds which face the water and hillside views.

Accommodation Experience:

We have travelled far and arrive tired but pleased about our choice of stay, instantly refreshed by the green surrounds. We settle in just before a dramatic summer berg storm. From our waterfront vantage point we enjoy watching the storm move across the skies. The downpour comes in sheets across the water and feels much closer for our setting. We hunker down with the birds, who find refuge under our deck, and we are grateful for our safe spot from which to witness the impressive display. The storm quickly passes and soon the birds are out again as if nothing has happened. A cup of tea and a good book later and we spend an enjoyable afternoon alternating between reading and watching the water birds going about their duck-like business. Whether it is the cleansing storm that took our minds off our troubles, or the watery setting or simply watching nature being natural, we find ourselves deeply refreshed and the happiest versions of our travelling selves.

St James on Venice, Morningside, Durban

Elegant Number

This is an elegant number – as classy as its name - the St James on Venice.  The guesthouse is a grand double storey building with curved balconies all around, glossy wooden floors and attractive finishings. It is well situated in breezy Morningside, Durban.

My room is decorated in soft grey, from the silvery headboard, to the damask-style wallpaper, cushions, blinds and grey suede couch. There are matching brushed silver wall lights. In one corner stands a handsome shaker-style wardrobe, while on the other end of the suite is a desk by the lovely bay window. Around the corner there is a modern, clear glass, spacious shower in an open-plan bathroom, with a separate, enclosed toilet.

Air-conditioning, large flat-screen televisions, a restaurant and active reception make this a convenient business stay. The guesthouse is set amongst established trees, with plenty of secure parking space and 24-hour security.

Accommodation Experience:

For a couch so stylish, it is surprisingly comfortable. I sink gratefully into it and I find I am perfectly placed within a private nook in the bay windows on both sides of this corner of my room, where I wile away the evening. There are happy sounds of staff from the kitchen and reception area, dogs barking across the road, and I enjoy the feeling of being part of it all and yet resting hidden in peace. The restrained but fashionable décor adds to the feeling of calm luxury. After a tiring day of work at the end of a busy year, I find this space restorative and inspiring. For a place so elegant, I have an inelegant fleeting image of myself holding onto this couch in the morning, being forcibly removed while begging to be allowed to stay and not have to go back to work.

Greenpark Manor, Fourways, Johannesburg

Family Peace

A rare find – affordable, stylish, tranquil accommodation in a convenient setting in Johannesburg no less. Greenpark Manor is a haven of calm within the busy metropolis of Gauteng. This is achieved by white walls, a thatched roof, and the setting within a beautiful garden. Located in a relaxed security village near Montecasino in Fourways, this bed and breakfast offers elegance at budget rates.

What I love about Greenpark Manor:

• Lush green garden with tall and wide fever trees and indigenous plants which attract a multitude of birds
• White walls, pitched thatched roof, with high, open ceilings and wooden beams
• Well-configured rooms facing different directions, with glass doors to the garden, with private outdoor seating areas
• Minimalist white décor
• Heaters, electric blankets, fans, big flat-screen TV, fridge and kitchenette

Accommodation Experience:

This I did not expect – to be lying in a pool of white percale linen, under a thatched roof, door wide open to views of tall green trees and the sound of birds, in Gauteng. I am particularly self-congratulatory because I managed to find a character stay which impresses the toughest of critics – my family. My father was stressy about the location and traffic. My mother dislikes ostentation of any kind and appreciates a good bargain. My partner eschews frilly, floral, gilded anything. And I of course love character, style and good linen. All in all a tricky combination, yet at Greenpark Manor there is peace in the family and we all sink gratefully into the experience of this characterful stay.