Recently we took the opportunity to escape to luxurious seclusion in the Riebeek Valley and stayed in the Ruby Rose Country House for two glorious nights. Magnificently restored, this lush oasis in one of the Cape’s favourite rural idylls, located a mere one hour’s drive from Cape Town.
The Riebeek Valley has long held appeal for artists, seekers of a laid-back lifestyle and self-sufficient professionals thanks to its unhurried and scenic village air. It is here among the suburban streets of delightful period homes and a backdrop of the fynbos-covered Kasteelberg Mountain that Ruby Rose Country House has established its loyal following.
The enterprise is the creation of Clive Richardson and architect Gerd Weideman, designer of amongst others, the 2020 World Luxury Awards African boutique hotel winner O’Two in Mouille Point. Located in a 4 200m², tree-shrouded garden, the Ruby Rose is a beautifully appointed haven complete with all the modern conveniences for a perfect stay including air-conditioning and high-speed wifi for those wanting to work remotely in this glorious home away from home.
The heritage-certified manor house is built in the Victorian style, complete with wooden floors and decorative trim typical of the period. It is the property’s crown jewel and lived many former lives, including the owners believe as a police station. Today, its guests are certainly more eager to visit, especially when they step through the gate into the tranquil paradise.
Ruby Rose Country House offers a range of rooms and suites, also catering for families; and safe, on-site parking.
We were lucky enough to have temperatures reaching 30degrees on both days so needless to say we took great advantage of the stunning pool in the afternoons. And enjoyed our breakfast’s poolside both mornings. The venue offers a lovely continental spread followed by a hot breakfast of choice.
Ruby Rose Country House is situated at 12 Sending Street, Riebeek West. Bookings can be made directly on the website, which also provides more information.
La Pátisserie Francois: a newly opened authentic French patisserie, situated next to Au Bouchon Rouge Brasserie and The Royal Hotel.
Meerhof Wines: a winery with an epic view of the Riebeek Valley, offering a tasting of 6 wines for R50.
Allesverloren Wines: Tasting is charged at R35 per person for 5 wines and we particularly enjoyed the Tinta Rosé!
The Royal Hotel: Known for serving a variety of gins “on the step”, The Royal Hotel is the oldest hotel in the Western Cape.
