By Prashirwin Naidu
Tucked beneath the Helderberg Mountains in Somerset West, Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa stands on land with centuries of story to tell. Once part of the original Vergelegen farm established by Cape Governor Willem Adriaan van der Stel in the 1700s, Erinvale’s roots are steeped in South African heritage. Over time, it’s evolved from colonial farmland to a refined country escape, blending old-world charm with contemporary elegance.
The winter blues can hit hard, but let me tell you- my stay at this effortlessly chic hotel melted away the chill and wrapped me in a cocoon of warmth. Of course, the reason I was there had wheels- Isuzu brought media guests down to experience the refreshed Isuzu MU-X (more on that adventure here). This is about what happens when a luxury retreat ticks all the boxes.
After the test drives and torque talk, I checked into a suite that felt more like a
well-styled dream. From the moment I walked in, there was a sense of peace.
The space was calming, elegant, and thoughtfully laid out, as if someone had anticipated every small comfort I didn’t know I needed.
Accommodation
The black-and-white tiled bathroom, dressed in clean white textiles, oozed
modern sophistication. And the bathtub? A deep-soaking sanctuary. I let the
warm water numb the chill from outside while my thoughts drifted like steam on
glass. Now, here’s where Erinvale nails the little things – knowing I don’t drink milk, they had a whole carton of oat milk waiting for me next to the coffee station. Thoughtful, indeed. I took my first sip of coffee and wandered the room, admiring the art, and I felt cool, calm, and collected.
The suite had everything to help you unwind: a smart TV, ambient music to set
the tone, and a plush robe to slip into after a hot soak. Then there was the
massive king-sized bed- so big it felt like I was floating. And those pillows?
Absolute cloud nine.
Dining
Dinner with fellow journos was a scene: crisp white linen, warm lighting, and a
menu that sang to my plant-based palate. The starter was an earthy, artful dish of baby marrows, mushrooms, greens, and hummus dressed with a secret sauce that teased the senses. Then came the vegan risotto. Tangy. Hearty. Bold. Each bite was packed with rich, layered flavour that didn’t just sit on the tongue- it danced.
Dessert was a game-changer: flourless, eggless chocolate cake, soft and
decadent, served with coconut ice cream. A chef’s kiss in every sense. After almost a year of being strictly vegan, I’ve started leaning pescatarian- my body asked, and I listened. Breakfast? A vibrant plate of salmon, hummus, cucumber sticks, and freshly-baked goods. From buttery croissants to seed-packed breads and a colourful spread of nuts, it was a breakfast worth waking up for.
My stay at Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa wasn’t just another media trip stay-over- it was a reminder of what hospitality can feel like when it’s dialled in just right.
I’ll be back. No doubt.
