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Majeka House: Your Luxe Gateway to Stellenbosch’s Rich Heritage

 

 

Prime location

A short 10-minute drive out of Stellenbosch via Paradyskloof Road, Majeka House is conveniently close to town but a good enough distance away to be able to enjoy the quiet of a residential suburb. Stellenbosch is home to historical landmarks, art galleries and nature reserves and Majeka House serves as a perfect base for exploring the town’s well-preserved Cape Dutch architecture or hiking in the nearby Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, while guests can also easily access the Winelands without lengthy travel times.

 

Rooms to revel in

The 21 rooms offer accommodation across four categories: 10 Premier rooms, ideal for small groups; three Gardens rooms with an exclusive-use plunge pool; two Poolside Rooms, also with a pool; and the Mountain View selection, which looks out onto the Helderberg Mountains. Large comfy beds, a flat-screen TV visible from the bath and the softest bath robes make room service on a cold day a rather good idea.

Relax and restore

The Majeka Spa has two single therapy rooms, a room for couples’ treatments, a magnificent heated indoor swimming pool, a steam room, and an outdoor Jacuzzi. Facial treatments make use of the renowned QMS Medicosmetics and Nautilus skincare. Guests are encouraged to chat with the spa therapists to tailor-make their package or check in for the three-hour Total Renewal package which includes a 60-minute herbal massage, 60-minute Nautilus facial, mini manicure, mini pedicure and lunch.

Food, glorious food

Majeka Kitchen serves breakfast and lunch. With a laden table of freshly baked pastries and bread, preserves, smoothies, yoghurt, cereals and fruit salad, there is no shortage of tasty continental options, but a hot breakfast is also highly recommended (the Vegan Breakfast – brown mushrooms, avocado, cherry tomatoes, rocket, chickpeas, peppers and crispy ciabatta bread – was exceptional). The dining area opens up onto the pretty gardens, which is also the perfect place to enjoy a selection of burgers, salads, sandwiches and poke bowls under the umbrellas at lunchtime, while the bright blue loungers set the scene for afternoon cocktails.

Pigs and things

A highlight when at Majeka is seeing how many pigs you can spot. Owner Karine Dequeker has the quirkiest collection of porkers of assorted sizes and colours scattered throughout the hotel which have become a trademark of the establishment. In addition to the posse of pigs, there are several quirky touches that exude a unique charm. Tall cacti, bright blue loungers, printed ceilings in the rooms, a grand piano, a large model of an 18th-century French ship and the considered mix of traditional French and English décor and high-spec finishes all contribute to an eclectic appeal. I love the M Lounge with its oversized, comfortable chairs and couches, ambient lighting, fireplace, wallpaper, books … and pigs. It is the perfect place for a drink and snack with a book in a quiet corner or a more social perch at the bar where the barman serves delicious cocktails.

M Lounge

It’s always such a pleasant surprise to experience a hotel that serves up something a little different. Majeka House ticks the luxury boutique hotel boxes, but also delivers those extra touches that get a smile – and therein lies the joy of travel.

Majeka House is located at 26-32 Houtkapper Street, Stellenbosch. For the best rates, book online: www.majekahouse.co.za

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Feb 2025

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