The Manor House at Mont Rochelle

Mont Rochelle Estate

The Wine

In Mont Rochelle’s vineyard, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon are among the varieties of grapes cultivated. The vineyards are situated between 250 m and 400 m above sea level on north and northeast facing slopes exposing the grapes to a range of micro climates. Mediterranean like conditions found in the Western Cape means dry summers and high winter rainfalls of 1000 mm.

At Mont Rochelle wine tasting isn’t just a special event – it’s an everyday occurrence! Wine tastings can be organized in a variety of locations, including Miko Restaurant, at the bar, at The Country Kitchen and in the wine cellar (as you might expect!).

The 150 year old wine cellar was previously used as a fruit packing shed for the early settlers. Since being converted to a traditional wine cellar, it can now process close to 150 tons of grapes in a season, and these smaller volumes afford more concentration on quality rather than quantity. Stainless steel tanks aid in the making of the crisp clean whites, while barrels are favored for the red wine making. Our wines are available to take home!

Dining

Exclusive use of the Manor House includes breakfast, lunch or dinner at either of the two restaurants or you could opt to dine privately in the house. The exclusive use rate also includes a drinks package per person, per day that can be personalized for your group, just ask a villa specialist for more information.

There are two restaurants at Mont Rochelle: Miko and the Country Kitchen. Miko is the main restaurant and is the setting for some fantastic gourmet meals including those for special occasions. Adjacent to the winery is the Country Kitchen, an ideal spot for a light lunch. All room rates include breakfast which is served in Miko. Both Miko and the Country Kitchen are open for non-resident guests, so it is recommended to call in advance to book a table.

You are welcome to explore the grounds at Mont Rochelle, and what better way to do this than with a picnic basket prepared at the Estate?! Just let the hotel know whether you’d prefer a bottle of white or red (or perhaps both)!

For those of you who love to BBQ you’ll be seriously impressed with the Braai. Chefs will be happy to cook traditional South African meats (vegetarians and vegans are also welcome). Just sit back, relax and enjoy time with friends and family!

Activities

What could be more relaxing than a spa treatment during your stay? Mont Rochelle has two dedicated spa treatment rooms as well as a Hammam. Mont Rochelle uses the eco-friendly Africology ‘Authentic’ range of products which are made from 100% essential oils and natural plant extracts. Guests are welcome to make use of the Hammam at their leisure, as long as it’s not in use for a treatment.

Take a 15-20 minute walk from the property and go exploring in Franschhoek, a traditional small town known for its picturesque beauty. There is lots to do and see including interior design boutiques, craft shops, patisseries, lovely restaurants, art galleries and museums. If you are laden down with shopping, there is a complimentary transfer service between Mont Rochelle and Franschhoek at set times of the day for lunchtime and evening visits. Outside of these times transfers and pick ups will be charged additionally.

A great way to discover the Franschhoek Valley is by the famous Wine Tram! This is a hop-on, hop-off service offering picturesque vineyards, beautiful scenery, fine wines, and world class cuisine as you travel. Here guests will have the chance to visit some of South Africa’s oldest and most distinguished wine estates travelling on an open air tram. Mont Rochelle is a stop on one of the Wine Tram routes, so guests can book the other route to sample more of the area’s vineyards.

For the active types, the gym is located outside in a separate room at the Manor House and includes weights, mats, running and cycling machines. The hotel gym is also available between 6 am and 10 pm every day. There are two treadmills, bikes, an adjustable bench and suspension training pack, dual adjustable pulley and a multipower machine, set of free weights and a body ball.

There are some wonderful routes that make it easy to explore the surrounding area on bike. Or, enjoy a hike through the hills, valleys and vineyards surrounding the Manor House, as well as in local reserves. The Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve on the opposite side of the valley offers superb views of the wine valley and on a clear day you can even see Table Mountain and the ocean!